Mortar is a binding paste that builds a strong bond with masonry units, like concrete blocks, bricks, and stones. With all these components together, ensure the improved durability and structural integrity of the buildings.
Mortar is used to bind bricks and stones, and the ratios of the mortar components (cement, sand, lime, water) can vary according to the specific project requirements. This article explores the properties and different types of mortar, along with their pros and cons. You can read it and understand the purpose of usage.
Understanding Mortar Mix
Mortar mix is a workable paste that builds a strong bond between the building materials. They include stones, bricks, and other units. It is composed of various ingredients such as cement, water, sand and lime. The ratio of these components can vary for each project, based on their desired properties and requirements.
Each ingredient in the mortar plays a significant role in the construction. For instance: Lime is added to achieve the maximum flexibility and workability, cement is for exceptional strength and durability and finally, sand acts as an aggregate. Together, these ingredients ensure stability and longevity of the masonry structures.
Properties of Mortar
A good mortar possesses various key properties, and some of them are explained in the following:
- A quality mortar provides extreme compressive and tensile strength to the construction to support any structural loads.
- Generally, mortar can withstand harsh environmental conditions like weathering, moisture content, and temperature fluctuations. It ensures long-term durability and stability of the structures.
- A good mortar can be easily workable, building proper bonding between masonry units.
- Mortar has excellent adhesive properties that help avoid any loosening or displacement over time.
- Mortar needs appropriate setting time, which allows maintaining the construction efficiency.
Different Types of Mortar
There are various types of mortar available, which are as follows:
Cement Mortar
Cement mortar is typically a binding material including the components like cement, sand, and water. It is primarily used to achieve enhanced strength and durability. The proportion of cement to sand varies for every project and it generally exists between 1:2 to 1:6.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Cement mortar is relatively easy to mix, apply and finish on the buildings. | Its lack of flexibility in cement mortar is prone to cracking when it is subjected to vibration or movement. | The cost of cement mortar may fluctuate due to the quality of sand, location, admixtures and transportation. However, it approximately costs Rs. 150 to 200 per square foot. |
| Due to its strong bond, cement mortar is highly resistant to chemicals, weathering, moisture content or any environmental conditions. | Cement mortar can shrink during drying, potentially causing cracking and other defects. | |
| Contains high compressive strength, which makes it suitable for various applications. | Setting time of this cement mortar can be influenced by temperature and humidity, which affects your timeline. |
Lime Mortar
Lime mortar is one of the fundamental binding materials in this mortar type. used in construction is generally categorised into two types: fat lime and hydraulic lime. Fat lime is a suitable option when working with dry conditions whereas the hydraulic lime is appropriate for areas with water-logging. Lime mortar in a building allows moisture content to evaporate from walls, reducing the risk of moisture-related damage. It primarily offers good workability, however the setting time is a little bit longer than cement mortar.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Lime mortar allows moisture to escape, which helps prevent mold formation and regulate indoor humidity. | Due to its lower compressive strength, the structure needs additional support to handle the loads. | The pricing can vary for each supplier due to market conditions and other significant factors. It costs approximately Rs. 250 to 300 per square foot. |
| Highly flexible than cement mortar, making them less susceptible to cracking during movement or settlement. | Slower setting time and less suitable for modern construction. | |
| Provides aesthetically pleasing appearance, suitable for traditional construction and historic preservation. | It is expensive and requires specialized knowledge and preparation before using. |
Gypsum Mortar
Gypsum mortar is made from gypsum and water, sometimes additives, and is primarily used for interior plastering and decorative purposes. The primary reason to go for this type of mortar is providing a smooth finish to the surface. Additionally, it can be molded to the required shapes, ideal to work on wall finishes and ornamental plasterwork.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Gypsum mortar provides moderate strength, making it a good choice for interior applications. | Less strength and durability in exterior applications. | Buying in bulk quantities can cost lower per unit. As of now, it costs around Rs. 120 to 180 per square foot. |
| Easy to mix and apply on the surfaces. | Gypsum mortar is highly sensitive to moisture. | |
| It is more affordable than cement or lime mortar. |
Gauged Mortar
This mortar type combines cement and lime with water and sand. It takes the workability of lime and strength of cement. Gauged mortar combines the workability of lime with the strength of cement, offering stability suitable for various construction projects.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Gauged mortar offers sufficient strength and durability and is especially suitable for load-bearing structures. | While using it in exterior applications, they offer less strength and durability. | It may approximately cost around Rs. 150 to 200 per square foot. |
| It can do wonders in both interior and exterior applications. | Not suitable for all types of masonry work. |
Surkhi Mortar
Surkhi mortar is composed of lime, sand, and finely ground brick dust (surkhi) as a pozzolanic material.This type of mortar is suitable for humid conditions due to its improved strength, durability and resistance to moisture.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Surkhi mortar has average compressive strength, making it a good choice for many construction applications. | Offers lower strength and can be sensitive to moisture. | The price range of surkhi mortar may fluctuate and it costs around Rs. 100 to 150 per square foot. |
| Highly durable and resistant to weather conditions. | Requires advanced knowledge for preparation and may not be suitable for all types of masonry work. | |
| Available at an affordable cost, which can apply for both interior and exterior applications. |
Aerated Cement Mortar
Aerated cement mortar drastically reduces the overall weight of the structure. It includes the components like water, cement, sand and a foaming agent. This type of mortar has exceptional soundproofing ability and thermal insulation properties.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Offers moderate compressive strength and highly resistant to moisture and weathering. | Lower strength and durability, requires specialized equipment for application. | Aerated cement mortar costs around Rs. 200 to 250 per square foot. |
| Suitable for several applications such as flooring, masonry, and plastering. | It is not suitable to apply on all types of construction. |
Mud Mortar
It is the oldest type of mortar made from sand, clay and water. It is typically used in rural and low-cost construction projects. Mud mortar has excellent thermal insulation properties but has lower strength and durability. It is suitable for only non-load-bearing structures.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| It is typically suitable for non-load-bearing walls and partitions. | It can be messy and time-consuming. | It may approximately cost around Rs. 50 to 80 per square foot. |
| It can be durable in dry climatic conditions but is prone to moisture damage and cracking. | Offers low compressive strength, which is not so suitable for load-bearing structures. | |
| It is pretty easy to mix and apply, making them convenient to use in small-scale construction projects. |
Heavy and Light-weight Mortar
Heavy mortar has the bulk density of 15 KN/m3 or more. It includes the high-density aggregates like iron ore or barytes applicable to many specialized applications. Lightweight mortar, on the other hand, combined with lightweight aggregates such as perlite, pumice, or vermiculite.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Both the mortars offer a wide range of applications, and meet the demand of various construction needs. | Heavy mortar is difficult to work with, similarly, the lightweight mortar is less likely to be durable. | The heavy mortar may cost around Rs. 150 to 200 per square foot. If it is a lightweight mortar, it costs nearly Rs. 100 to 150 per square foot. |
| Heavy mortar is highly durable in exterior applications, while the lightweight mortar is durable in certain conditions. |
Thin-set Mortar
It is a cement-based adhesive specifically used for tile installation. Thin-set mortar establishes a strong bond between tiles and surfaces. It includes sand, cement, and a water-retaining agent. Beyond its adhesive properties, they are highly resistant to water and ensure a smooth surface.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Contains high compressive strength and resistant to cracking and shrinkage. | Not as durable as traditional mortar in certain applications | Thin-set mortar can cost around Rs. 150 to 200 per square foot. |
| Easy to apply and finish, suitable for various applications such as masonry and tile setting. | Not works well at all types of tiles and can be sensitive to moisture content. |
Epoxy Mortar
Epoxy mortar, also known as chemical resistant mortar, offers exceptional durability, strength, and chemical resistance. It is made of hardeners, epoxy resins, and aggregates. Epoxy mortar sets quickly, making it suitable for repair work, industrial flooring, and areas exposed to chemicals.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Provides excellent compressive strength and durability. | It requires special mixing and application. | Based on its source of ingredients and quality, the cost can differ everywhere. Approximately, it costs around Rs. 300 to 400 per square foot. |
| They are highly resistant to chemicals, which makes them suitable for a wide range of applications such as industrial applications, flooring, and repair work. | Unfortunately, it is not suitable for all types of surfaces. |
Fire-resistant Mortar
Fire-resistant mortar is specifically designed to prevent the spread of fire and withstand high temperatures. This mortar type contains fire clay, ceramic fibers, and calcium aluminate. It is used in various applications, including chimneys, furnaces, and fire-rated walls.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| It is highly resistant to fire, high temperature, weathering, and moisture content, ensuring long-term performance. | It contains less compressive strength compared to conventional mortar. | Fire-resistant mortar can cost around Rs. 250 to 350 per square foot. |
| It works well at various applications, including masonry, and fireproofing. This mortar type is ideal for areas where fire safety is a primary concern. | It can be expensive. |
Packing Mortar
Packing mortar is an ideal choice for tight, and secure fit. They are used between beams and walls or around pipes. This type of mortar is known for its enhanced performance, which can be achieved through a high proportion of sand and additives.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
| Packing mortar is pre-mixed and ready to use, saving time and effort during construction. | Contains only limited customization options. | It cost nearly Rs. 200 to 250 per square foot. |
| It can be applied on the surfaces quickly, resulting in increased productivity. | Not suits for large-scale construction projects. | |
| Offers consistent quality and performance for a long-run. | Typically requires additional mixing for certain applications. |
Final Lines
Mortar plays a prominent role in civil engineering, providing enhanced durability, strength, and functionality to masonry structures. Understanding the different types of mortar, their functionalities, advantages, and cost can assist you in selecting the appropriate type for each project.