Mixing the Mortar

      

MIXING THE MORTAR:
Except for walks or patios made of bricks set in sand, bricks are held in place with mortar. The mortar mix used in most instances is 1 part cement, 1/4 part hydrated lime, and 3 parts sand by volume. However, some codes may specify a different proportion, especially in cold weather climates.

You can buy ready-to-mix mortar in a "mortar mix" or a "sand mix." This product is sold in home center and building material stores in 40 and 80 lb. bags. All you do is add water and stir.

If you are mixing mortar from scratch, assemble the material and with a shovel and hoe, blend the materials thoroughly. Then add a little water at a time until you get the mortar to the proper consistency. Mortar mix should be somewhat drier than a concrete mix. A test is to pull the mortar up in a series of ridges with a shovel or hoe. If the mortar stays in sharp distinct ridges and does not slump, it has the right amount of water. If the ridges are crumbly, add water. If the mix slumps down, there is too much water. Add more materials to the mixture. Remember: it is always easier to add more water to a dry mix than to add dry materials to a soupy mix. Therefore, when you mix, easy does it with the water.

Allow the mortar to set for a few minutes before using it. If, as you work, the mortar starts to dry out, add a very small amount of water and thoroughly re-mix the mortar to bring it back. However, once it starts to set, it must be junked.

Basic terms in bricklaying indicate how a brick is laid in relationship to the wall.

A 2-wythe wall is laid in pairs of courses and the wythes are tied together with headers. The outside faces of a 2-wythe wall are even with the ends of a brick laid lengthwise.

Building or common brick is the most economical to buy. SW brick will withstand weathering; MW grade will withstand moderate weathering; NW bricks are for mild climates. Face brick is the best quality and costs accordingly. Paving brick is made to be used without mortar. Firebrick is used to line fireplaces, ovens and furnaces.

Running bond brick pattern is the most common. Others include stack bond, Flemish bond; English bond; diamond.

Bond patterns have varying degrees of structural soundness. If the wall you are building is load-bearing (will support weight), be sure to check the codes in your area as to what type brick, detailed above, you should use. To fracture bricks, use a brick chisel and baby sledge hammer. Score the fracture point on all sides of the brick with the chisel. Then strike the chisel on the scored line with a firm blow with the sledge. Wear safety glasses and gloves while you work.

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