Consistency of Mortars

Basics in Building Construction 4(2+2)

Lesson 08 : Masonry

Consistency of Mortars

The quantity of water to be added to the mortar should be such that working consistency is obtained. The working consistency of the mortar is usually judged by the mason during application. The water should be just enough to maintain the required fluidity of mortar during application. The consistency of the mortar to maintain required fluidity depends upon the joints of masonry. For Example, thinner joints will require greater fluidity while joints subjected to heavy pressure intensity require stiffer mortar with less fluidity.

The mortars with cement as an ingredient should be used as early as possible, preferably within half an hour from the time, water is added to the cement during mixing operations or at the latest within one hour of its mixing. Cement mortar is generally more suitable for making high strength mortars. In addition to sand, pozzolana may also be added.

Lime motars are prepared from hydraulic and semi-hydraulic limes. Prepared lime motars shall be kept damp and shall never be allowed to go dry. This may be ensured. Partly set or dried motar shall never be retempered for use. Strength of lime motar depends upon mix proportions.

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Last modified: Thursday, 21 June 2012, 9:10 AM