Building mortar

Mortar is a material that can have a different composition and, consequently, different uses. Building mortar, therefore, indicates various binders that are placed between the construction materials . It is therefore used for laying bricks, but also for creating partitions and load-bearing walls. Depending on the use for which it is prepared, the mortar will have specific characteristics.

Building mortar, some types and characteristics

Here are the different types of building mortar on the market.

Cement mortar : it is obtained by mixing powdered cement, sand and water. The cement that is usually used is slow-setting. Depending on the quantity of cement contained, the mortar can be more or less greasy. 

Lime mortar : obtained from lime with the addition of water, in this case we have a rather rapid setting, so we have to prepare small quantities at a time. Typically this mortar is used for interior finishing.

Bastard mortar : this name indicates a mortar that contains a part of cement and a part of other binders in order to slow down its setting and allow longer use. Used above all for the installation of floors and walls or for the construction of wall structures. 

How to choose the right mortar

The choice of building mortar, as we have seen, essentially depends on the use we have to make of it. If we need it for interior finishes, we will have to choose lime mortar, on the contrary, if we have to use the binder for laying flooring , the right choice will be lime mortar which allows us to work without it drying out.

Cement mortar is widely used and is widely used as a render , i.e. it acts as an intermediate layer, therefore it has a purely adhering function, but it can also be used as plaster, internal and external, especially when particular mechanical resistance is required. . 

Finally, another use that is worth mentioning, again with regard to cement mortar, is that of bedding , therefore for the installation and construction of walls, both load-bearing and non-load-bearing.

With this short guide you may have a clearer idea of ​​what type of mortar you need, but if you still have doubts, ask a professional in the sector for advice.