Precautions in using mortar

Precautions in using mortar

1. Consumption of mortar – the consumption of mortar should be as early as possible

Line mortar – with in 36 hours after itspreparation

Cement mortar – within 30 minutes

Gaged mortar – within 2 hours.

2. Frost action - Setting action of mortar is affected by the presence of frost and not advisable in frosty weather.

3. Soaking of building units: Building units should not be soaked before application of mortar. If this precaution is not taken, water of mortar will be absorbed by the building units and mortar will become weak.

4. Sprinkling of water: The construction work carried out by mortar should be kept dam or wet by sprinkling water for about 7 to 10 days to avoid rapid drying of mortar.

5. Workability: Mortar should not contain excess water and it should be stiff as can be conveniently used. Joints should be well formed and excess mortar from joints should be neatly taken off by a trowel. Surface formed by mortar for building units to rest should be even.