DIY Network

Masonry: Mortar Mixing From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-202

	Portland cement, sand, lime and water mix together to create mortar.
	Dyes are added to create colored mortar.
	Figure A

The most common mistake when working with masonry is not mixing the mortar properly. It takes some practice to avoid getting the mortar too thin or too thick. Host David Thiel and guest Jim Brown explain the proper mortar mixing technique.

Mortar

• Basic mortar consists of Portland cement, sand and lime mixed with water.
  
• Holds bricks or other masonry building materials together once it dries.
  
• Dye can be added to create a desired color.

Masonry Cement

• Ingredients are pre-mixed with the exception of sand.
  
• Common in residential applications.
  

Pre-Mixed Mortar

• Only requires water to complete mix.

Mortar Mixing

1. Use a mortar hoe (figure A) to allow air into the mix.

2. Add water as you are mixing.

3. The final consistency of the mortar should be that of 'cookie dough', not too thick or too thin.

Safety Tip: Mixing mortar creates a lot of dust and the cement can dry out your skin. Remember to always wear a dust mask, gloves and safety glasses when working with mortar.

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Tips to Remember:

• A mortar hoe can be useful in incorporating air while mixing the mortar.

• A trowel can be handy to cut into a bag of mortar, especially if you are only using a small portion.

• Mortar is the basic ingredient in any masonry job, so it's important to learn the correct method for mixing.

• If you would rather not mix your own mortar, purchase a pre-mixed variety.

RESOURCES :

QUIKRETE® Information
To obtain expert advice on Do-It-Yourself concrete projects, to inquire about specific QUIKRETE® products, to find out where to buy the products or to order product literature, please call 1-800-282-5828.

To easily calculate how much concrete you'll need for a job, click here.

The QUIKRETE® Companies
Website: www.quikrete.com

GUESTS :

Jim Brown
Cornerstone Masonry
3509 Neal Drive Knoxville, TN 37918
Phone: 865-922-8295