Professional Documents
Culture Documents
By
Juan Rodriguez
Updated on 08/13/21
Reviewed by
Deane Biermeier
Mortar mix is a critically important building component that must be combined thoroughly. Mortar is the
bonding material between bricks, concrete block, stone, and many other masonry materials. It is made from
Portland cement, lime, sand, and water in varying ratios. Each of the standard mortar mixes—Types N, M, S,
and O—has different performance characteristics for different building applications.
Each type of mortar mix contains different quantities of material. Be sure to use the correct type of mortar mix
for the application. It is best to use fresh cement (unopened bags) when mixing mortar. Cement bags that are
opened tend to absorb environmental humidity, thus changing the water percentage of the mortar mix.
Mortar is good for 90 minutes. After that time, discard the mortar because it starts to lose some of its
characteristics. Also, weather can affect how mortar reacts and how manageable it can be, so plan accordingly.
Successful mortar mixing relies on consistency. Try to use the same materials and use the exact amount of
material batch after batch. You can use a pail or bucket to make sure you are using the same amount of material
for subsequent batches. Mix mortar for not less than three minutes and not more than five minutes after the last
materials have been introduced into the mixer or tub. When hand-mixing, be sure to add all components before
adding the water.
If the mortar starts to dry during application, add more water. Do not add water once the mortar begins to set.
You can add chemical plasticizers or masonry cement to improve the workability of the mixture. Waterproofing
agents may be added to mortar for brick fences to prevent damp. To color mortar, add dye before mixing the
mortar.
Use a good grade of fine sand in your mortar mix. The sand should be free of clay material; otherwise, it will
create a paste that could expand and contract as the water dries up. Cover the sand during storage so it does not
absorb water, which could change your mortar mix water requirements.
Tip
Many types of pre-packaged mortar mixes have admixtures that are activated once they are mixed.
Type N
Type M
Type S
Type O
Portland cement: 2.25 cu ft
Hydrated lime: 4.5 cu ft
Sand: 20.25 cu ft