Type N is also the preferred mortar mix for soft stone masonry as its flexibility helps to prevent cracks in the stones that stronger mortars might actually cause. A high-tensile bond strength and a high compressive strength of over 1, psi sets this mix apart and makes it ideal for a wide range of projects at or below grade.
And that 1, psi is just the minimum compressive strength—builders often mix type S for strengths between 2, and 3, psi. These significant bond and compressive strength numbers make type S able to withstand forceful soil pressure, wind, and seismic loads. Because of these unique properties, type S is the go-to for many below-grade applications such as masonry foundations and sewers as well as many at-grade projects.
With the highest amount of Portland cement in its makeup, type M mortar mix provides at least 2, psi of compressive strength. While this mix is ideal for heavy loads and below-grade applications such as foundations, it provides relatively poor adhesion and sealing properties.
This makes it poorly suited to many exposed applications. But mortar is the relatively easy part. The true task is picking the perfect cut and color of thin veneer to use in your project. Reach out today with any questions, and our knowledgeable sales team will provide the information, samples, and expertise you need to get started. There are five official types of mortar, all classified according to their bonding properties, flexibility, and compressive strength.
Bonding Properties Mortar adheres to building units, working to keep them together. Flexibility Masonry units will crack if exposed to movement caused by moisture, settling, and other forces. There are five main types of mortars we use in construction. Type N, S, O and M. This mortar mix has a medium compressive strength. Type N has a medium compressive strength of psi and can achieve 28 day strength between and psi. We recommend type N mortar for use on exterior, above grade projects that are exposed to severe weather and high temperatures, as well as on interior, load bearing applications.
Type N is also the preferred mortar type for soft stone masonry because its flexibility helps to prevent cracks in the stones that stronger mortars can actually cause. Recipe: Type N is made of 1 part Portland cement, 1 part lime, and 6 parts sand. Type S mortars have a minimum of psi but typical mixes usually give you between and psi. The higher bond and compressive strength numbers make type S able to withstand soil pressures, wind, and seismic loads.
Because of these properties, type S is what we recommend for most below grade applications such as masonry foundations and sewers. A type M mix has the highest highest amount of Portland which gives it a minimum of 2, psi of compressive strength. While this mix is great for supporting heavy loads and below grade foundations, it provides relatively poor bonding and sealing properties.
Type O mortar mix has a fairly low compressive strength, rated at only about psi. Recipe: Type O is made of 1 part Portland cement, 2 parts lime, and 9 parts sand.
Type K mortar is rarely used for new construction but is sometimes used for restoration work. It has a very low compressive strength of only about 75 psi. Because of how soft it is, type K is primarily used for restoring historic masonry that requires a soft mix that has a similar strength to the existing masonry.
The porous quality of type K allows very little movement due to temperature and moisture fluctuations. This helps to prolong the integrity of old or even ancient bricks in historic structures. Masonry gate pillars built with mortar and real stone veneer. There is no single best or all purpose mortar. However we can narrow it down quite a bit and tell you which mortar type is generally best for each of the most common applications. Below is a list:. Thin brick and stone veneer: Type S is what we recommend here.
Stacked brick or cement below grade block walls cmu : Here we like Type S. Retaining walls: We use either type S or type M depending on the size and weight of the wall. Restoring historical buildings: Type K. For this type of work type K is the best choice. Soft stone masonry: Type N is what we recommend. Higher strength mortars can actually cause damage to a softer stone.
All masonry projects are unique and must adhere to local building codes and should be built as per the designers specifications. But you need the right mortar type for the job. Generally speaking, you should use one of the standard mortar types listed on this page for the applications we recommend unless your architect or engineer specifies something different. There really is no one size fits all best mortar type so make adjustments based on the type of work your doing and the material your using.
And when in doubt, hire a professional. If you have any questions or comments e-mail us any time. Mortar Selection Mortar bonds two masonry units together so they function as a single unit. These are some fundamental guidelines: No single type is best for every purpose. Select a type with the lowest compressive strength that meets the project requirements.
Of course, these guidelines should be used with good judgment. The proportions are more accurate than mixes you make yourself unless your a trained and experienced mason.
The ingredients will be more evenly distributed throughout the mix unless you have your own cement mixer. For most small projects a pre-mixed mortar is more cost effective than mixing it yourself even though the bags are more expensive than the ingredients they hold.
If you do decide to mix your own, make sure you only use clean sand and clean water. Type N: 1 Part Portland cement.
Type M: 3 Parts Portland cement. Type O: 1 Part Portland cement. Type K: 1 Part Portland cement. Mortar Type Characteristics Each type has some basic characteristics you need to understand: Type N — General all purpose mortar with good bonding. Easy to work with. Whether you need a mortar with a high or low psi depends on the specific project and its location. Mortar for installing tiles comes in three basic types: Thin-set, mastic, and epoxy mortar. Thin-set mortar mix is the most commonly used tile mortar for both indoor and outdoor projects.
It offers a strong bond and is resistant to moisture and heat. Thin-set tile mortar is smooth and slippery and comes pre-mixed or in powder form, which you mix with water. A major advantage of thin-set is that it helps to level slightly uneven surfaces.
Thin-set is ideal for shower floors and walls, kitchen countertops, and other applications in high-moisture settings. Mastic is a tile adhesive that comes pre-mixed. Epoxy mortar contains three different components: Resin, hardener, and powder.
It sets quickly and provides an incredibly strong bond. This type of mortar is recommended for ceramic flooring tiles. Large-format mortar supports the increased weight and reduces unevenness between tiles.
Mortar can be mixed in small amounts by hand. Pour the ingredients into the mixing container, add water, and mix, scraping the bottom often. Keep adding water and mixing until the mortar has a smooth consistency and slips easily off the mixing utensil but holds its shape when you make a hole in the mix. Once you mix your mortar, it should be good for 90 minutes before it starts losing its essential characteristics. Your email address will not be published.
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