Proper preparation of mortar for laying bricks. How to make mortar for laying bricks? Mix mortar for bricks

20.08.2023Heading: Calculation

Cement mortar is a fundamental component necessary for various construction purposes: for plastering walls, for building foundations, for laying bricks, etc. It is an accurate understanding of the scope of the solution that affects certain proportions of the cement-sand mixture, as well as other ingredients that make up the composition. Cement without any additives is not used, because after hardening it turns out to be very fragile.

The main constituents of cement mortar are water, sand and cement.

A high-quality foundation should consist not only of the traditional components of the mortar - sand, cement and water, but also of crushed stone. It should not be limestone, because this does not increase the strength of the finished solution. Also, do not replace crushed stone with expanded clay, gravel and other similar materials.

In most cases, cement grades M400 and M500 are used to make the foundation. Strength is extremely important for the foundation of a building, so the use of high grades of cement is fully justified.

As for sand and water, the requirements here are absolutely identical to those that apply to ordinary cement mortar used for plastering walls, laying bricks, etc. Water should not contain impurities, oils and foreign objects.

Bathroom wall panels are quite easy to install, they are strong enough, they can easily cope with temperature changes and have a long service life. everything about this lovely stuff.

With the help of a self-leveling floor screed, you can minimize all the difficulties of leveling it. you can learn about the different types and cost of self-leveling screed.

Quarry sand has acquired its wide distribution due to its low cost and excellent natural qualities. By clicking on the technical characteristics of this material.

Sand must be taken washed and sifted so that there are no traces of clay, stones, silt formations, etc. in it.

The proportions of sand and cement for preparing a mortar for the foundation are as follows - three buckets of sand are taken per bucket of cement.

As for crushed stone, in most cases it is identical to the amount of sand. If you measure everything in buckets, then for one cement M400 or M500 you will need three buckets of crushed stone and three buckets of sand.

Water must be diluted carefully so as not to make the solution too thin. It is very important here how dry sand we have available, i.e. if it is wet, it is advisable to dry it before mixing with the rest of the ingredients.

The composition of the floor screed mortar, how to mix

cement slurry for are determined based on the grade of cement available. The minimum allowable brand of mortar for floor screed is, but quite often the brand M200 is used.

In general, a sand-cement or concrete screed can be used as an independent floor covering in certain rooms. As a rule, these are garages and other non-residential buildings. In most cases, the screed is used as the basis for linoleum, parquet and other coatings.

Cement mortar for floor screed includes three main components - sand, cement and liquid.

The concrete screed is also supplemented with crushed stone, but it is practically not used for residential premises, so we will not consider it.

The proportions of the cement-sand mixture

The proportions of such a sand-cement mortar are quite traditional. Cement and sand are taken in a ratio of 1 to 3. As for water, it should be twice the amount of cement.

For example, if we make mortar for screed brand M150 from cement, then one part of it accounts for a third of sand and 0.5 of water. In order to make a solution of M200, 0.4 parts of water and 2.8 parts of sand are needed with the same amount of cement.

Preparation and ratio of components of cement-lime mortar for laying facing bricks

Cement mortar for bricks is not much different from mortars used for other building purposes. Only the proportions differ, some additives, but the main components remain the same.

As a mortar, a mixture of cement and lime can also be used. The proportions depend on what brand of solution we need. Eg, to make a mortar of grade M100, we need cement grade M300 and 3.4 parts of sand.

If cement M500 is available, then to obtain such a solution we need 5.3 parts of sand. In principle, the formula for calculating the brand of solution also applies here, i.e. grade of cement divided by the amount of sand.

Plasticizer - is it possible to add milk of lime or PVA

Many experts advise adding lime milk to these components, which helps to increase the plasticity of the mixture. So, to obtain a solution of grade M25, we need one part of lime milk and cement, as well as four parts of sand.

The cement mortar for laying facing bricks includes some additions in the form of plasticizers. They are used instead of lime, which has a positive effect on the results of work.

Thus, the addition of a small amount of these additives prevents cracks, improves adhesion, etc.

The proportions are approximately as follows: no more than 0.3 parts of plasticizers are used for one part of cement. In this role, PVA glue in a cement mortar can act. In addition, you can make a plasticizer for cement mortar with your own hands.

To do this, we need the following materials: shampoo, liquid soap and diluted washing powder. The proportions may vary. For example, for 50 kg of cement, about 200 ml of liquid soap is used.

For more information on how to prepare a mortar for laying bricks, see the video:

What to add and how to make your own mix for wall plaster

A mortar for is a combination of traditional components of a cement mortar, as well as certain additions that improve the properties of the mixture. Such additional materials may be clay or lime, depending on the work performed.

Cement mortar for wall plastering can contain a wide variety of proportions.

One part of cement can contain from one to six parts of sand. But the optimal ratio is one to three, with the addition of the right amount of water.

Cement-lime mortar for plastering includes more varied proportions. Here are some of the most common: 2 parts lime to 8 parts sand, or 2 parts lime to 9 parts sand.

This amount of materials is calculated from the ratio per one part of cement. Many are interested in how to prepare a cement-lime mortar for plaster? The most common method is to pre-mix sand and cement.

Only then is milk of lime added, which is made by mixing water and lime paste.

The use of liquid glass

Liquid glass is a mixture of sodium silicate and water.

In cement mortar applied for the following purposes:

to improve waterproofing;
to increase performance screed strength;
to increase the heat resistance of the surface when plastering;
to fill cracks and other voids.

Cement mortar with liquid glass is prepared using the following proportions:

for waterproofing purposes - 4 parts of cement, 4 parts of sand and 1 part of liquid glass;
for sealing cracks- 3 parts of cement, 1 part of sand and 1 part of liquid glass;
to increase the fire resistance of surfaces - 4 parts of cement, 1.5 parts of sand and liquid glass.

As we see the proportion of liquid glass in cement mortar directly depends on the scope of the finished mixture. As for the proportion of water, it should not exceed 25 percent of the amount of liquid glass.

The proportions of cement and sand in the preparation of cement mortars are one of the defining moments. The characteristics of the finished mixture will depend on observing the correct ratio, so you need to know such nuances even before the construction stage.

Despite the fact that ready-made packaged mixtures appeared in the distribution network, the mortar for laying bricks, as a rule, is prepared immediately before the start of construction work. It is much cheaper, all other things being equal: quality, durability and ease of use.

The correct proportions of cement for brickwork

At this point in time, the following types of masonry mortars based on cement and sand are used in high-rise and low-rise capital construction:

Cement-sand;
Cement-lime.

The proportion of cement and sand for laying bricks for each type of masonry mortar

Standard cement-sand mortar, as a rule, is used not only for laying bricks and other “stone” building materials, but also for plastering walls and pouring floor screed. In this regard, it can be called "universal". For its preparation, Portland cement of the M400 or M500 brand and sifted sand without organic impurities (quarry, river or artificial) are used. Depending on the responsibility of the masonry, the proportions of cement: sand can be 1:3 or 1:6. The most common option is 1 part of cement to 3 parts of sifted and washed sand.
Cement-lime mortar is characterized by greater plasticity and greater "warmth" than cement-sand material. In addition, it is great for brickwork of any type and purpose. The composition of the components, in addition to sand, Portland cement M400 or M500, includes lime paste (hydrated lime). To mix 1 m3 of cement-sand-lime mortar, you will need to purchase: 190 kg of Portland cement, 1760 kg of any sand and 105 kg of slaked building lime. In this case, lime is diluted with water to the state of "milk", after which it is used as a sealer for sand and cement mixed together. For the plasticity of the solution, it is allowed to add a small amount of yellow clay.

It is impossible not to mention the cost of preparing a masonry mortar from a ready-packed cement-sand dry mix and cement and sand purchased separately. A fifty-kilogram bag of dry universal brick laying mix will cost you 200 rubles, excluding shipping costs.

A fifty-kilogram bag of Portland cement M400 weighing 50 kg will cost from 195-230 rubles. A ton of washed sand - 200 rubles or 20 kopecks 1 kg. We consider, bringing the price of a "home-made" mixture to the price of 50 kg of a bag of "home-made" mixture: 1 part of cement - 220/4 \u003d 55 rubles (12.5 kg), 3 parts of sand - 37.5x0.2 \u003d 7.5 rubles. Let's summarize - 55 + 7.5 = 62.5 rubles will cost you one 50 kg bag of dry mix prepared by yourself. It's 320% cheaper if you buy ready mix! And without loss of quality!

The question of how to properly prepare a cement-based mortar for brickwork has not lost its relevance over the years. With the seeming simplicity of the process, it has nuances, the knowledge of which will help to avoid mistakes. Evidence of the versatility of the topic under study is the unsolved mystery of the preparation of compounds used in the construction of ancient temples, which have retained their integrity to our time.

Types of compositions

Various types of mortars are used to create durable brickwork. The technology of their preparation has a certain similarity. Any composition for laying bricks has three key components available: a filler, which most often acts as sand, a binder and water. The key difference is in the binding element. Additional substances in the form of clay, PVA glue and other additives help to achieve greater viscosity or plasticity.

The cement mixture is the main binder component in the preparation of mortar for laying bricks. In addition to it, these functions perform:

lime;
clay;
cement-lime mixture.

Based on the technological properties, the following cement compositions for bricklaying can be prepared:

Skinny. They have a small amount of binder. They are characterized by low ductility and strength, which in the future will lead to cracking of the material. The positive point is the cheapness of the mixture.
Fatty. Contain an increased volume of the binder component. Plasticity and high strength are guaranteed in this case, however, there is a tendency to crack and the risk of shrinkage during curing.
It is optimal to prepare a normal cement mortar, where the observance of proportions helps to preserve all the positive qualities when laying bricks.

Description of main components

Careful selection of the main components of the cement mortar will allow you to prepare a high-quality mass that will ensure a solid brick laying. For this you need:

Water for mixing requires clean, free of impurities, dirt and foreign matter. It is ideal to draw it from the well. The temperature of the liquid depends on the season when it is required to prepare the cement mass: cold water is suitable in summer, in winter it needs additional heating.
Sand is an integral component of the cement composition. The absence of traces of clay and other impurities is a prerequisite, otherwise the period of weathering of the mortar from the masonry will accelerate.
Advice ! It is easy to determine the quality of sand directly during the purchase. Intense yellow color indicates the presence of additional impurities, so it is possible to prepare a solution with it exclusively for backing masonry.
The main component that determines the properties of the future composition is cement. In order to correctly prepare the mortar and maintain the correct proportions, the brand of the cement mixture is of key importance. There is a pattern: the higher the brand of the binder component, the smaller the volume is needed to prepare the solution. If you want to prepare a composition of a darker shade, just add graphite or soot to it or purchase a higher brand of cement. At the same time, it is imperative to follow the compliance of the established proportions!
Detergents will help prepare the cement mass without purchasing expensive plasticizers. Shampoo, washing powder or dishwashing liquid are suitable for this role. The exception is a cleaning agent due to the likelihood of cracks in the brickwork.

Characteristics and proportions of various solutions

In addition to the cement mortar in its pure form, lime and cement-lime mixtures are periodically used for bricklaying. Properties, proportions and in what cases it is better to cook each of the species, we will consider in detail.

Lime

Lime mortar for brickwork is rarely used, this is due to the deterioration of strength indicators. The main area of \u200b\u200bits operation is chimney pipes made of bricks or laying the foundation for a furnace. The proportions of the solution for these purposes vary based on the fat content of the lime. To prepare the optimal composition, 2 to 5 parts of sand are added to one part of the binder component.

Cement and cement-lime

When laying bricks, cement mortar is invariably popular among builders. Its distinctive characteristics:

increased rigidity;
the coldest composition among all species;
however, these characteristics simultaneously provide its increased strength.

The plasticity of the composition is directly related to the proportions of the introduced components. Based on the brand of dry cement mixture and the requirements for bricklaying, the mortar is formed in proportions similar to the lime composition: from 2 to 5 shares of sand are added to one share of the binder component.

Remark ! Professional masters for fixing bricks recommend preparing a cement-lime mortar.

Lime milk increases the plasticity of the composition compared to a purely cement version. It becomes warmer while maintaining the necessary strength, which allows for a wide range of applications. The only condition is the impossibility of application if the humidity level is above the norm. The optimal proportions of binders (in the form of cement and lime) and filler are:

for solution M25 - 1/1/4;
for solution M50 - 1 / 0.5 / 4.5.

Cooking technology

The secret of how to prepare a high-quality cement mortar intended for laying bricks is extremely simple - choose the right proportions. Tools should be prepared in advance - clean buckets, a bulk container for mixing, a shovel and a trowel.

The use of a concrete mixer (if there is a team of builders) will help speed up the entire brickwork process; for small volumes, it is better to knead the cement mixture by hand. For this you should:

If the cement mass was prepared correctly, and all proportions were observed, in its consistency it will resemble homemade thick sour cream.

Requirements for the finished composition

So that bricklaying does not disappoint in the near future, the prepared cement mass must meet the established requirements:

The plasticity of the composition. This affects the filling of voids and irregularities in the brickwork.
High level of adhesion with brick.
Optimal setting time. Rapid hardening makes it impossible for the normal process of work. Cement compositions should retain plasticity for one and a half to two hours. When adding lime, the period is extended by another 3 hours.
A high-quality solution ensures the formation of a thin uniform layer.
After solidification, the mixture must retain strength, otherwise the brickwork will undergo deformation.
It has sufficient insulating properties.

Advice ! When laying bricks in summer heat, it is better to prepare a mixture with increased mobility.

Types of compositions

The cement mixture is the main binder component in the preparation of mortar for laying bricks. In addition to it, these functions perform:

lime;
clay;
cement-lime mixture.

Based on the technological properties, the following cement compositions for bricklaying can be prepared:

Skinny. They have a small amount of binder. They are characterized by low ductility and strength, which in the future will lead to cracking of the material. The positive point is the cheapness of the mixture.
Fatty. Contain an increased volume of the binder component. Plasticity and high strength are guaranteed in this case, however, there is a tendency to crack and the risk of shrinkage during curing.
It is optimal to prepare a normal cement mortar, where the observance of proportions helps to preserve all the positive qualities when laying bricks.

Description of main components

Careful selection of the main components of the cement mortar will allow you to prepare a high-quality mass that will ensure a solid brick laying. For this you need:

Water for mixing requires clean, free of impurities, dirt and foreign matter. It is ideal to draw it from the well. The temperature of the liquid depends on the season when it is required to prepare the cement mass: cold water is suitable in summer, in winter it needs additional heating.
Sand is an integral component of the cement composition. The absence of traces of clay and other impurities is a prerequisite, otherwise the period of weathering of the mortar from the masonry will accelerate.
Advice! It is easy to determine the quality of sand directly during the purchase. Intense yellow color indicates the presence of additional impurities, so it is possible to prepare a solution with it exclusively for backing masonry.
The main component that determines the properties of the future composition is cement. In order to correctly prepare the mortar and maintain the correct proportions, the brand of the cement mixture is of key importance. There is a pattern: the higher the brand of the binder component, the smaller the volume is needed to prepare the solution. If you want to prepare a composition of a darker shade, just add graphite or soot to it or purchase a higher brand of cement. At the same time, it is imperative to follow the compliance of the established proportions!
Detergents will help prepare the cement mass without purchasing expensive plasticizers. Shampoo, washing powder or dishwashing liquid are suitable for this role. The exception is a cleaning agent due to the likelihood of cracks in the brickwork.

Characteristics and proportions of various solutions

Lime

Lime mortar for brickwork is rarely used, this is due to the deterioration of strength indicators. The main area of \u200b\u200bits operation is chimney pipes made of bricks or laying the foundation for the furnace. The proportions of the solution for these purposes vary based on the fat content of the lime. To prepare the optimal composition, 2 to 5 parts of sand are added to one part of the binder component.

Cement and cement-lime

When laying bricks, cement mortar is invariably popular among builders. Its distinctive characteristics:

increased rigidity;
the coldest composition among all species;
however, these characteristics simultaneously provide its increased strength.

for solution M25 - 1/1/4;
for solution M50 - 1 / 0.5 / 4.5.

Cooking technology

The use of a concrete mixer (if there is a team of builders) will help speed up the entire brickwork process; for small volumes, it is better to knead the cement mixture by hand. For this you should:

If the cement mass was prepared correctly, and all proportions were observed, in its consistency it will resemble homemade thick sour cream.

Requirements for the finished composition

So that bricklaying does not disappoint in the near future, the prepared cement mass must meet the established requirements:

The plasticity of the composition. This affects the filling of voids and irregularities in the brickwork.
High level of adhesion with brick.
Optimal setting time. Rapid hardening makes it impossible for the normal process of work. Cement compositions should retain plasticity for one and a half to two hours. When adding lime, the period is extended by another 3 hours.
A high-quality solution ensures the formation of a thin uniform layer.
After solidification, the mixture must retain strength, otherwise the brickwork will undergo deformation.
It has sufficient insulating properties.

Advice! When laying bricks in summer heat, it is better to prepare a mixture with increased mobility.

Change the plasticity and mobility of the finished cement mixture will allow the introduction of plasticizers. In addition to standard surfactants, there are folk methods in the form of conventional detergents.

Mortar for brick
How to prepare masonry mortar for bricks
Proper mortar for bricklaying
Mortar for laying brick walls: professional advice

Brick buildings are very durable and reliable. They can stay for years. Yes, for years! Over the centuries. But brick is not considered a cheap material.

Indeed, to create a small structure, you will need quite a lot of this building material. And yet, brick houses will never go out of fashion and will not lose their appearance for a long time.

Preparation of mortar for laying bricks is the topic of this article.

Any brick, be it silicate or ceramic, is used to build houses, internal walls in a house, fences, lay out stoves, fireplaces, barbecues. The result is aesthetic walls and other brick products that are resistant to various influences.

For the strength and reliability of the future structure, it is necessary to make a solid mortar, with the help of which rows and individual bricks are fastened. There are several types of solutions with different components, and we will talk about this later in this article.

The dry matter and water are mixed and mixed well.

lime mortars

It is believed that cement mortar is considered the best solution.

A more plastic composition is suitable for brick, which is necessary for the construction of various fences and internal walls. Therefore, you can use a warm solution of lime, which is prepared from quicklime crushed lime and sand.

Dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed, and then only water is added. After adding water, everything is mixed well, the masonry mixture at the exit should not contain lumps and impurities.

The components for the solution are taken in proportions: 1 part lime, 2-5 parts sand.

cement mortars

In cement mortar, the main components are cement and sand. The proportions of the ingredients depend on the brand of cement. For example: 1 part of cement and 3-6 parts of sand.

Mix dry ingredients with water until a single mass is formed. First, knead the dry ingredients, and only then add water. But this method is not very good, since even when using different grades of concrete, the solution comes out inactive and rigid.

Cement-lime mortar

The solution consists of lime and cement. The principle of preparing the solution:

Lime mass (slaked lime), diluted with water to a thick state, then filtered;
Dry cement and sand are combined;
Dry components are diluted with lime mortar and mixed.

Lime is introduced for plasticity, and was used for laying any kind of brick.

Simple mortar

A conventional mortar is made from a binder and sand. Sometimes clay is taken as an astringent, but this solution is used for highly specialized work.

Cement - sand mixture is prepared 1:3 . We mix all the dry ingredients, then gradually pour water. After adding water, the mixture is stirred.

Complex solution

The consistency of the solution should not be liquid, like water.

A complex mixture of a solution is considered to be a mixture in which several components and a binder are involved. For example: cement-lime-clay or cement-lime.

When adding clay, the solution does not fall apart, it fits neatly and easily.

For brick laying of facade walls, plasticizers are added to the mortar. Such a solution is very economical, it is applied to the surface in an even layer.

The ratio of ingredients

To prepare the correct solution, you need to calculate the amount of ingredients. For a solution, sand is taken in the middle fraction, the brand of the solution may be different, but it is the sand fraction that affects the proportions. For example:

We use cement M-500, the proportions will be as follows: 1 part of cement for 2/10 lime take 3 parts of sand;
We use cement grade 400, the proportions will be as follows: 1 part of cement for 1-3/10 parts of lime for 2.5-4 parts of sand;
We use cement grade 300, 1 part of cement is taken for 2/10 lime for 3.5 sand.

All components of the solution must be mixed well.

This example is for a cement-limestone mixture and for a cement-sand mixture.

Solution proportions:

When using cement grade 500, take 1 part of cement to 3 parts of sand;
for cement grade 400, take 1 part of cement to 2.5 parts of sand.

Helpful information

Masonry methods

Brick is laid according to special rules so that the building structure is monolithic and durable.

To make a solution, use cold water without any pollution, its temperature should be 15-20 degrees.

All dosages in the manufacture of masonry mixture must be observed exactly.

Water consumption:

Concrete grade 100, take 1 part of cement from 1/2 to 7/10 parts of water;
Cement-sand mortar. 8/10 parts of water are used on a part of cement.

Consumption of cement:

Mark M100 - 300-250 kg per m3;
M150 - 400-330 kg per m3;
M200 - 490-410 kg per m3;
M300 - 600-510 kg per m3.

Solution mobility

The mobility of the solution is an important characteristic. This value depends on what ingredients are mixed into the solution.

To check the mobility of the solution, a cone is used, the angle of which is 30 degrees, the height is 15 cm and the weight is 300 grams. Immerse the cone in the prepared solution. The number of centimeters the cone plunged is the number showing the mobility of the train.

We measure the mobility of the solution

Why measure the mobility of a solution?

For high-quality brickwork, it is necessary to choose high-quality bricks and choose high-quality components for mortar. The quality, strength and reliability of the future structure depends on the quality of all materials.

Nowadays, different masonry mortars are used, but their choice depends on the meteorological conditions under which bricklaying will be carried out and for what purposes the building material will be used.

This is necessary for the strength of the brickwork.

For a solid brick, a solution with a mobility of 9-13 cm is taken,
for hollow bricks take a mixture with a mobility of 7-8 cm,
in hot weather, take a solution with a mobility of up to 12-14 cm.

Before starting work with bricks and masonry mortars, carefully study all the nuances, choose the right mortar, and prepare it correctly. And best of all, entrust the work to specialists in this field, they must do everything according to the rules. We wish you good luck in your endeavors!

Many people know how to prepare a mortar for laying bricks. But not everyone knows how to make it right and so that the cost of masonry does not exceed the price of the brick itself. Often cement or limestone mixture is used as gluing elements. As a filler, sand is used, which should be as clean as possible, light, without additional impurities, debris, residues of the root system of plants, grass and other vegetation. In the construction industry, air or water hardening materials are used.

The preparation of a binder product is a very important process, on which the strength and safety of the knowledge being built depends. If violations are allowed, over time, the masonry will begin to collapse, and the structure itself will sag. It is hardly necessary to specify what this may lead to.

What are the types of solutions

Before embarking on the independent preparation of the product, you should study the composition of the masonry mortar and its main types, which differ in technical characteristics.

At the moment, there are three main types of mixture:

Cement mortar for brick laying

It consists of components such as clean, white sand and a cement product. This building material is characterized by a low degree of plasticity, low mobility and is listed in the category of cold components. Regardless of the manufacturer, the cement product is considered too hard, so it is rarely used.

Lime mortar for brick laying

It is made from warm, plastic, quicklime product and sand. In terms of strength indicators, they are inferior to cement.

Mortar for cement and lime masonry

If it is difficult to decide on the type, you can safely stop at the combined one, which has all the advantages inherent in the cement and limestone components. Elements are great for almost all types of bricks.

What proportions of sand and cent to use for an ideal solution

First of all, you need to carry out preliminary preparation of sand, remove all unnecessary elements and sift. Only pure, homogeneous material, when mixed with other components, can create an astringent effect.

Types of sand

If more cement is added to the composition, the level of plasticity and mobility will increase.

As a filling element, sand, clay or limestone material can be used. The last two are elastic, but they can not be used in all cases, for example, in the process of laying bricks with cavities. Over time, they will absorb moisture, as a result of which walls and partitions will lose their thermal insulation properties.

To increase the volume of the solution and qualitatively improve its characteristics, aggregates are included. And if only sand (preferably river sand) is suitable for laying bricks, then crushed stone, gravel, expanded clay, perlite, etc. should be used to install monolithic structures.

Options for crushed stone for concrete

Porous aggregates (slag, expanded clay) are needed to increase the thermal insulation of the entire structure. In this case, the maximum diameter of the filler should not exceed 15-20 mm, so as not to reduce the adhesion of the composition.

The most important constituent of the mass is water. It is she who acts as a connecting element and provides the necessary bundle. Its quality and quantity are determined by GOST 23732-2011.

To improve the properties, the following components can be added:

elastic plasticizers - facilitate the application of the composition, increase the density and increase resistance to deformation;
hardeners - used to accelerate polymerization;
anti-frost additives - stop the process of water freezing during winter work and maintain the hydration of the substance;
pigments - decorative additives to give the masonry a certain color.

What kind of cement is better to use for mortar

The grade of cement used for mixing shows how many kilograms 1 cc of cement mortar can withstand.

At the moment, the classifications of the product of the following series are widely used:

0-2 - rarely used.
4, 10, 25, 50, 75 are the most popular brands.
100, 150, 200 - are used in the process of erecting specific structures.

The series is assigned after checking the hardening rate of the product and for compression.

It is forbidden to use the latest brand of cement (from F200 and higher) when mixing a mortar with requirements for frost resistance without air-entraining additives (plasticizers).

The more cement is added, the better the astringent properties, but its excess is fraught with rapid hardening of the solution.

The correct texture has a certain degree of mobility, which is important for building processes. The value of mobility is determined by the method of practical research. A special cone is immersed in a recently prepared product, if the element goes far inland - the mixture has an increased degree of mobility, but the lower the immersion, the worse the elasticity of the components. It is advisable to carry out such an experiment every time a new portion is kneaded.

VIDEO: Preparation of mortar for laying bricks

Composition and table of proportions of sand and cement

The proportions of mortar for laying bricks can be calculated based on the following criteria:

how many floors are planned to be built in the building;
the purpose of the building being produced;
type of soil on which the house will be built, etc.

If you want to build a one-story cottage, then you can use a limestone type product, which is lightweight and has a high degree of adhesion. The most optimal ratio is 4:1.

Cement mixture is needed for the construction of walls, the thickness of which does not exceed 250 mm. When mixing, components such as sand and cement are added in proportions of 3-6: 1. The amount of the first element depends on the purpose of the building being erected and the manufacturer of the cement mixture.

For buildings built from refractory building materials, which are subsequently expected to be subjected to intense exposure to elevated temperatures, a special binder is used, consisting of sand, clay, a refractory component, fireclay powder. Often used for the construction of fireplaces or stoves.

Series, kgf/cm2		Optimal Ratio Proportions (sand, cement)

How to knead correctly?

Consider the recipe and steps on how to properly knead the mortar for laying bricks.

It is necessary to prepare the components from which the cement product will be produced - sand, water, cement, limestone element.
Next, mix all the main components in the required proportions and dry. Next, a little fireclay powder is added to increase the level of plasticity.
Water is gradually poured into the mixture and thoroughly mixed until a homogeneous consistency. It is important to remember that after 1.5-2 hours the mortar for brick laying loses its technical characteristics and begins to harden.

Component consumption calculation

Solution preparation

One of the most popular ways to prepare a mortar for laying bricks is the combined version of the cement-sand type.

For 1 sq.m of a brick wall, with a thickness of one standard brick, up to 80 liters of liquid mixture are intended. If the laying must be carried out with a thickness of one and a half bricks, more than 110 l / m2 will be consumed.

Regardless of the fact that the building materials market in our time is full of various mixtures for the construction of houses, a cement product prepared by oneself is still not inferior to them in terms of its technical features.

It should also be remembered that any work related to the construction of any structures should be done in the summer season. Thus, the construction of a small cottage can be completed by winter.

Of the main advantages of the cement component, ease of availability, low cost of its components and the ability to use with low-grade brick material are distinguished.

The only drawbacks are that special tools are required to prepare the mixture, a large layer thickness is obtained during laying, and after drying, the material requires subsequent processing with decorative cladding.

VIDEO: How to lay a brick correctly. How to make perfect seams

In construction, a special mortar is used to fasten bricks to each other and prevent their displacement. This mortar must be, first of all, of high quality in order to prevent beveling and shrinkage of the structure, as well as plastic in order to lie evenly on the brick. It is necessary to pay sufficient attention to the preparation of the solution, since the masonry with its use will have to stand for more than one year.

Mortar for bricklaying

Brick mortar contains binders, it consists of several components. Lime or cement is used as a binder, so the mixture can be lime, cement-lime or cement-based. Another important “ingredient” of the solution is sand. It is best to use sand without unnecessary impurities, such as earth, clay, plant roots, leaves, grass, etc.

Mixtures for laying bricks according to the nature of the binders are:

air hardening (air);
water hardening (hydraulic).

Solutions depending on the amount of binders are divided into:

simple - the composition includes only one binder component (cement or lime);
complex - the composition includes two or more binder components that fundamentally change the properties and structure of the solution.

The composition of the mortar for laying bricks

Depending on the composition, the mortar for laying bricks is mainly:

Cement.
Lime.
Cement-lime.
Cement-clay.

cement mortar

The most common type, it is used most often. This type of solution has a special rigidity, strength and water resistance. It is used for the construction of both low-rise and multi-storey buildings and structures, as well as for underground masonry.

Mortar

This solution has high plasticity and low shrinkage. It is easy to use, easy to install and adheres well to the surface of many commonly used building materials. It is also warmer than cement mortar. It is used for the construction of above-ground premises, with low loads.

Cement-lime mortar

This solution has a wide range of applications, it is used both for the construction of underground and for the construction of underground parts of buildings. It, like limestone, is easy and simple to install, has high strength and frost resistance. This type of masonry mixture has a higher thermal insulation capacity than the previous two.

Cement-clay mortar

The strength of this type of mortar is slightly lower than that of cement, but the advantages of such a mortar are its low cost, plasticity, frost resistance and durability. Such a mixture is suitable for any work with ceramics and stone, but care must be taken to ensure that the clay is carefully sifted and rid of unnecessary impurities before using it. In addition, the clay must also be crushed to the required state.

The proportions of mortar for laying bricks

The proportions of the mortar for laying bricks depend on the type of soil, the type of building and the number of storeys of the structure.

Proportions of cement mortar: the generally accepted norm is the ratio of binder (cement) and aggregate (sand) 1:3. Depending on the brand of cement, the degree of humidity of the sand and the requirements for the use of the mortar, these proportions can be changed up to 1:6.
Proportions of lime mortar: to obtain it, sand is added to lime in a ratio of 1:2 to 1:5, then the resulting mixture is poured with water until a homogeneous mass is obtained.
Proportions of cement-lime mortar: basically, in the preparation of this type of mixture, the ratio of cement, lime and sand is used in the range from 1:1:6 to 1:3:15.
Proportions of clay mortar: the most common ratio of clay and sand in the finished solution is 1:1 or 1:2.

Consumption of mortar for masonry

To determine the amount of mortar required to create brickwork, one must proceed from the following proportions: for each square meter of masonry, approximately 0.25 cubic meters of masonry mixture is consumed. If the masonry consists of concrete blocks, then the mortar consumption will be much less, about 0.05 cubic meters per square meter.

When using hollow bricks, the amount of mortar required for masonry can increase significantly, since when it is used, the masonry mixture fills all the voids. In this case, it is necessary to mix a solution of medium density. In addition, it is very convenient to use, as it does not spread over the surface of the masonry.

Masonry mortar grades

According to the strength of the manufactured solution, its grades are divided into several categories:

Rarely used - grades 0 and 2.
The most common are grades 4, 10, 25, 50 and 75.
Specialized, used in narrow-profile construction - grades 100, 150 and 200.

The brand of masonry mixtures is determined by the compression of mortar cubes that have hardened for 28 days. No less important in construction is another value - the mobility of the solution, which depends on its composition, namely on the proportions and type of binder and aggregate, plasticizing additive and on the volume of water introduced into the solution.

Rules for preparing a mortar for laying bricks

Secrets of making masonry mortar:

Sand before its use must be sieved to get rid of unnecessary impurities, debris, clay, gravel, etc.
Solutions in small volumes are best mixed by hand with a shovel.
For mixing masonry mortars in large quantities, it is best to use a concrete mixer.
First of all, dry ingredients are mixed, then water is added to them in small doses until a creamy mass is reached.
The solution is ready if, when the container in which it was mixed is tilted by 40 degrees, it does not pour out, but slowly slides over the surface.
The cement mixture hardens within two hours, so you need to be prepared to use it up over such a short period.
Mortar for laying bricks in winter is used cement, it is used for the construction of load-bearing walls, but for interior work, lime or complex mortar is used.

Cement mortar for bricklaying: the preparation process

The quality of the mortar for laying bricks depends on the correctness of its manufacture. It is on how strictly the rules and proportions are observed that the strength, durability and solidity of the brickwork and the building as a whole will depend.

To prepare a mortar for laying bricks, we need three components: cement, sand and water.

Manufacturing steps:

Sift the sand. All excess impurities must be removed in order for the mixture to be homogeneous.
Mix all dry ingredients (cement and sand).
Add the required amount of water in small portions, constantly stirring, in order to obtain the necessary mobility of the building mixture.
The solution is ready when the mass becomes creamy.

Mortar for laying bricks: correct mixing. Video

The construction of housing or industrial facilities involves the use of various building materials, including brick. The process itself, how to prepare a mortar for laying bricks, is approximately everything - you just need to mix cement with clean, dried sand, and mix the composition with water. But few people understand in detail how it is done correctly and efficiently, in what sequence and in what proportions - this knowledge is from the category of those that are in plain sight, but no one uses them.

Masonry mortar - properties

Varieties of mortars for brickwork

First of all, you need to understand what such a solution is intended for. The brick is placed on a specially prepared cement mortar for laying bricks to bind building piece products into a monolith. Astringent components are added to the cement powder, penetrating deeply into the body of the brick, and upon drying, forming with it an almost single monolithic whole. The aggregate (sand) is necessary in order for the mortar to acquire the necessary bonding properties - without sand, the cement will simply turn into a cake, and adhesion to the brick surface will be minimal. Water is added to the mortar in order to cause a reaction with the lime present in the cement. This reaction is aimed at the manifestation of the processes of hydration, hydrolysis and metabolic processes.

Hydration is a chemical reaction of water and cement, in which crystalline hydrates are formed, which, in turn, affect the strength of the hardening cement mass, that is, the formation of cement stone. The composition of the solution should include only clean (river) or cleaned (washed) sand, so that foreign impurities in the form of clay, soil and other solid insoluble particles do not interfere with the uniform hardening of the working mixture.

A mortar prepared according to proven recommendations is the basis of a reliable design, therefore, the proportions of the mortar for laying bricks should be observed with high accuracy. Even low-quality water can greatly reduce the strength and performance properties of a brick wall, not to mention the necessary requirements: the shelf life of cement, the moisture content of bulk materials and other parameters.

The main points to be observed when preparing a reliable cement mixture for masonry:

The sand is sifted or washed in advance so that the dry mixture has a uniform structure when kneading;
The quality and quantity of cement determines the elasticity and mobility of the cement mixture, while the ratio of materials is calculated based on specific conditions;
As a filler, you can take not only sand, - additives in the mortar for laying bricks are allowed proportions of clay or lime powder. But such fillers are used in exceptional situations, for example, in laying out stoves, heating and food.

High-quality sand-cement, clay and lime mortar has different technical, physical and operational characteristics. In addition, aggregates can be combined, which makes it possible to obtain a cement mortar, lime or cement-lime.

Lime-based masonry mortar has good ductility, but is less durable than Portland cement-based mortar. For its preparation, quicklime powder and purified sand are mixed.
The cement-lime mixture is prepared, respectively, from Portland cement of low grades, and lime diluted in water. The lime-cement mix organically combines the following characteristics of substances: plasticity, adhesion and strength, therefore it is recommended for any construction work;
A mortar prepared with cement is a mixture of sand and Portland cement. Such working compositions of solutions are considered to be inactive and rigid.

How are mortars labeled?

A mortar with the use of various binders and fillers is used not only for laying ordinary or facing bricks - it is also good for them to plaster or lay concrete structures on it. The difference lies in the proportions of the components. So, in individual construction for laying brick walls, proportions of 1:2 or 1:3 are used, where 1 is a certain volume of cement, 2 or 3 are parts of sand. The brand of Portland cement is recommended not lower than M 250, and better - M 400. An increase in the proportions of sand makes the mortar more free-flowing, which will certainly lead to the destruction of the masonry after a while.

Also, the solutions themselves are classified by grade, and the most common for construction in the private sector are grades 100 and 150. Grade 100 with fine aggregate - sand - is perfect for masonry and plastering. When using M 400 cement, add 3.5 parts of pure sand, when using M 300 cement, 2.5 parts of sand, etc. Grade 150 cement mortar is also well suited for plastering and bricklaying. Coarse-grained sand is used with this masonry mortar. Further:

Solution brand 0; 1; 2 are used very rarely due to low strength properties;
4; 10; 25; 50; 75 are used in any construction work;
Stamps 100; 150; 200 is used for special construction work.

The brand is assigned to the solution after testing the concrete cube for compressive strength.

The mobility of the solution is determined by testing on stands. The steel cone is lowered into the fresh solution under its own weight, and the degree of mobility is calculated from the depth of its immersion. If the mortar is made correctly, it will be suitable for masonry of solid ordinary bricks, while the working mixture should have a degree of mobility of 9 or 10, for masonry of bricks with voids, the mobility should correspond to values of 7-8. If the construction is carried out in hot and not rainy weather, then the mobility of the solution should correspond to the values of 12-14 (the volume of liquid in the solution should be almost one and a half to two times more), since moisture evaporates faster under such conditions, and the solution will harden unevenly.

Proportions and composition of cement masonry mortar

The correct and proportionately sustained preparation of the solution depends on many parameters. Among them: how many floors there will be in the house, the type of construction, on which the load and bearing capacity of walls and ceilings depends, the type and properties of the soil on which the building will be built, and other values. One-, two- or three-story houses are allowed to be built using lime mortar, since it is less cement mortar and adheres well to the surface of bricks. The proportions of this composition are 4: 1, where 4 is the volume of sand, 1 is the volume of lime.

How to make a cement-based mortar is discussed below. Such a mixture is usually used for ordinary laying of brick walls ≤ 25 cm thick, if the order is displayed in one brick. The ratio of components ranges from three to six volume parts of sand to one volume part of Portland cement. The proportions depend on the brand of Portland cement and the parameters of the structure.

All solutions made from lime, cement, as well as mixed compositions, are prepared according to the same scheme: first, dry bulk materials are thoroughly mixed, then the mixture is closed with clean (non-technical) water. To obtain the optimal density of the solution (the consistency of fatty sour cream, the solution flows down from the shovel in small portions), no more than 0.8 parts of the volume of liquid per 1 part of the volume of cement should be added to any mixture.

In individual construction, the most common brand of mortar is 75. Such a mixture consists of slaked crushed lime, purified river sand and cement in the following ratio: 1: 7: 0.8. If a facing brick is to be laid, then dyes can be added to the mortar so that the mortar joint matches the color of the bricks or lies in the appropriate color range.

Refractory bricks are placed on a mortar, which includes clay and sand. Also, fireclay mortar or refractory clay is added to the clay solution. Proportions: 1:3 (clay - sand). Dry batch is mixed with water or liquid glass until the required consistency is obtained.

In order for the solution to turn out to be of high quality and durable in operation, it is prepared in several stages:

Preparation of the necessary components: Portland cement, clean sand, slaked lime, clean water, liquid glass (if necessary);
Mixing components without adding liquid. The composition of the mixture, which is considered universal: 1: 5: 1, where the components are in order - cement, sand, lime. If you need a plastic solution at home, add washing powder in a volume of 1-2% of the volume of cement;
The dry mixture is closed with a liquid: for ordinary sand-cement compositions, clean drinking water is used, for laying refractory bricks - liquid glass with the addition of water. The solution will not be fresh and suitable for masonry for long - 2-3 hours, so it must be prepared taking into account the actual masonry conditions.