Basic nonrefractory brick mortar recipe?

[Tscarborough]

Re: Basic nonrefractory brick mortar recipe?

Yes, I saw that when researching it. We have a similar product here, generally called "Spec-mix". It is a very good product, and in some areas utilizes plasticizers instead of lime. Regardless it still has to meet the ASTM C-270 standard, and I was interested in that, i.e. what physical properties and strength is the mix design based upon.

Ultimately it is always up to the mason in the field to determine the suitability of the mortar within jobsite conditions and parameters. Usually this will only involve how much water is added when using silo mortar, but for any job not using premixed mortar, there have to be guidelines to determine the composition of the mortar (as well as methods of testing and quality assurance).

[cannyfradock]

Re: Basic nonrefractory brick mortar recipe?

Off topic now from OP's original question. Answer to Tscarborough over on chit-chat forum.

Terry (C.F)

[Tscarborough]

Re: Basic nonrefractory brick mortar recipe?

Actually, it is very on topic to the original post:

"I need to make a very short brick wall (4" high, basically single "pavers" on their edges). It won't be exposed to heat. What would be the right mortar recipe? I assume it is basically the same as the home-brew but without the fire clay. Something along the lines of 3:1 sand/portland or 3:1:1 sand/portland/lime. I have no idea.

Any ideas?"

He is asking what is the proper composition of mortar for a specific application. To determine what the proper mortar is, there has to be a set of parameters used to select the properties required, and thus the composition of the mortar.

For a masonry wall in compression, the method used here in the US is called allowable compressive stress. However, for this specific application, this does not apply. What matters in this instance is bond and flexural strength, since his structure will be in tension, not compression. Thus thinset as opposed to mortar.

Sorry to be pedantic about it, but it is what it is.

[kebwi]

Re: Basic nonrefractory brick mortar recipe?

I'm following along with interest, just trying to keep up.

Thanks.

[sandgroper]

Re: Basic nonrefractory brick mortar recipe?

5 parts bricklayers sand, 1 part cement, 1 part lime in equal portions for laying bricks on flat would cover most sand types.

[sandgroper]

Re: Basic nonrefractory brick mortar recipe?

Actually, it is very on topic to the original post:
(4" high, basically single "pavers" on their edges).

In this case I would go 3 parts bricklayers sand :1 part cement :1 part lime of equal portions because of the surface area of the paver "on edge"