Mortar (masonry)

Mortar (masonry) is a workable paste used to bind building materials such as stone, brick, and concrete blocks together and fill the gaps between them. The paste hardens due to a chemical reaction that occurs as it absorbs water. This process is known as hydration.

Composition

Mortar is composed of a mixture of sand, a binder such as cement or lime, and water. The proportions of these components can vary depending on the desired properties of the mortar, such as its workability, compressive strength, and durability.

Sand

Sand is the bulk component of mortar, providing the material with its structure and bulk. The sand used in mortar must be clean and free from impurities such as clay and silt, which can weaken the mortar.

Binder

The binder in mortar can be either cement or lime. Cement provides high strength and durability, while lime provides flexibility and resistance to frost damage.

Water

Water is used to activate the binder and make the mortar workable. The amount of water used can affect the workability and strength of the mortar.

Types of Mortar

There are several types of mortar used in masonry construction, including:

• Type N Mortar: This is a general-purpose mortar with medium compressive strength. It is used in above-grade exterior walls and interior load-bearing walls.

• Type S Mortar: This type of mortar has high compressive strength and is used in below-grade applications such as foundations and retaining walls.

• Type M Mortar: This is the strongest type of mortar and is used in heavy load-bearing applications and below-grade applications such as foundations and retaining walls.

Uses

Mortar is used in a variety of masonry construction applications, including:

• Binding bricks, stones, and concrete blocks together
• Filling gaps between bricks, stones, and concrete blocks
• Providing a decorative finish to masonry walls

See Also

• Concrete
• Cement
• Lime (material)