Mortar (masonry)
Mortar (masonry)
Mortar (pronunciation: /ˈmɔːrtər/), from the Latin mortarium meaning crushed, is a workable paste used to bind building blocks such as stones, bricks, and concrete masonry units together, fill and seal the irregular gaps between them, and sometimes add decorative colors or patterns in masonry walls.
Composition
In its broadest sense, mortar includes pitch, asphalt, and soft mud or clay, such as used between mud bricks. The most common binder since the early 20th century is Portland cement but the ancient binder lime is still used in some new construction.
Types of Mortar
There are several types of mortar used in masonry construction:
- Type M mortar is the highest strength mortar (minimum 2500 psi) and should only be used where significant compressive strength is required.
- Type S mortar is a medium-strength mortar (minimum 1800 psi).
- Type N mortar is a medium-strength mortar (minimum 750 psi) and it is used in above grade exterior and interior load-bearing installations.
- Type O mortar is a low strength mortar (minimum 350 psi) and it is used in non-load-bearing interior applications.
- Type K mortar is used primarily for restoring the masonry on historic or ancient buildings that require a special mix that is not significantly stronger than the existing masonry.
Etymology
The word "mortar" comes from Latin mortarium, meaning crushed. The term is often used to refer to the binding agent itself, rather than the overall substance.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mortar (masonry)
- Wikipedia's article - Mortar (masonry)
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