How to choose and prepare masonry mortar

When building buildings for different purposes, it is necessary to choose a suitable masonry mortar. Otherwise, the structure simply collapses under its own weight. At the moment in the market of building materials is presented a wide An assortment of ready-made mortar slurries that are simply filled with water, after which they will be ready for use. You can also buy components and prepare a mixture for masonry yourself.

The basic principles of the choice of mortar for masonry

When choosing, it is necessary to be guided by the designation and dimensions of the structure. The most reliable mortar is cement mortar, it can be used for buildings with high loads. It is also possible to add additional impurities, which increase the elasticity of the mixture. There are also adhesive additives, which increase its strength.

For single-storey buildings, the total mass of which is relatively small, a cement-lime mortar solution is used. Such a construction mixture has a high thermal conductivity.

Also, there are colored solutions that have similar properties, but for use in decorative purposes, they add a colored pigment.

For facing the house and other facade works use an adhesive version. A similar mortar solution is better to buy ready. These building mixtures should have high resistance to frost and the ability to withstand the effects of water.

The main indicators of the quality of the solution are: compressive strength, which is reflected on the package by the letter M, water resistance, which is denoted by the letter D. Also important characteristics for the building mix are thermal conductivity and ductility, as this ensures the simplicity and speed of work with it. Do not use heavy-duty mortar in structures that do not require this, it is only needed for the foundation of the building.

It is not necessary to save on the components of the mixture, since they serve as the basis of the house.

How to prepare masonry mortar yourself

To prepare the most common cement mortar , three components must be mixed: cement, sand and water. To get a quality mixture, you need to mix them in a ratio of 1: 3: 1-1.5. The last parameter depends on the moisture content of the sand. Mixing mortar in small volumes can also be a shovel, but a large amount of cooking will be obtained only with a concrete mixer. When mixing, you need to add components gradually in parts, this will ensure the uniformity of the composition.

It is important to remember that the solution can not retain its properties for a long time, so you need to mix up such a quantity that it will be distributed in an hour and a half. For longer work with the mixture can be added to the composition of the substances that give elasticity.

Such a solution is suitable for laying all kinds of building material (brick, aerated concrete, cinder block, etc.). At the same time its layer can be from 6 to 40 mm. The exact figure depends on the type of material selected.