Brick and Mortar - Useful Information on Mortar
12 October 2008
I found some interesting information on mortar from the PineHallBrick.com Buyer's Guide: "Mortar represents 20 percent of the total surface of a wall, so picking the right mortar color is very important to the overall look of your home.
Different mortar types and specifications are required for various applications and climates. The most common is called type S and is naturally gray in color. Mortar can be tinted to blend or to contrast with the brick color. It is important to keep mortar mixing and tooling practices uniform, especially when using colored mortar. A slight variation in mortar color can have a dramatic effect on the appearance of a finished wall. "
Talk with a masonry contractor to "discuss the mortar colors that look best with your brick color. Also, sand color will affect the finished look of your mortar color. Lighter color sands are generally recommended for lighter colored mortars. Inquire about the common sand colors in your area."
The mortar joint is also an important factor in the appearance and functionality of the wall. 'Tooling' the joints help seal the wall surface against moisture penetration. The concave, vee, and grapevine joints are best for exterior construction. These joint types compress the mortar at the surface and are the most weatherproof. Other joints are acceptable for interior use. "
Need to find a mortar and brick expert? We can help. ConstructionDeal.com matches homeowners with contractors - at no cost. Submit your project today!
Different mortar types and specifications are required for various applications and climates. The most common is called type S and is naturally gray in color. Mortar can be tinted to blend or to contrast with the brick color. It is important to keep mortar mixing and tooling practices uniform, especially when using colored mortar. A slight variation in mortar color can have a dramatic effect on the appearance of a finished wall. "
Talk with a masonry contractor to "discuss the mortar colors that look best with your brick color. Also, sand color will affect the finished look of your mortar color. Lighter color sands are generally recommended for lighter colored mortars. Inquire about the common sand colors in your area."
The mortar joint is also an important factor in the appearance and functionality of the wall. 'Tooling' the joints help seal the wall surface against moisture penetration. The concave, vee, and grapevine joints are best for exterior construction. These joint types compress the mortar at the surface and are the most weatherproof. Other joints are acceptable for interior use. "
Need to find a mortar and brick expert? We can help. ConstructionDeal.com matches homeowners with contractors - at no cost. Submit your project today!
Labels: Brick Installation, Masonry Contractors, Mortar
