Mortar

how long does it take mortar to dry?
Q. we had brickwork done on our house and the mortar that was touched up/replaced is a darker red than the original mortar. The mason said it will dry lighter, so hoping this is the case. how long does this take, 3 days? 3 weeks?
Asked by Roscoe - Mon Aug 27 10:35:19 2007 - - 4 Answers - 0 Comments

A. It should begin to cure right away. Depending on the weather, I'd give it a few days to change colors. If it gets wet while curing, it may darken up.
Answered by haven_ly1 - Mon Aug 27 10:47:36 2007

Why does the mortar I mixed just crumble into nothing when it set?
Q. I mixed up some mortar yesterday and it seems pretty dry now. It's the first time I ever used it so I don't know much about it. Anyway it's really soft and just crumbles apart into nothing when I squeeze it. Why does this happen? Isn't it meant to be strong, not as strong as concrete obviously but still strong enough not to crumble apart easily. Will it strengthen more over the next few days?
Asked by Football Addict reborn - Thu Oct 23 03:06:14 2008 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments

A. probably too little water . hydration is actually a chemical reaction, and sounds like you didn't have enough water or possibly didn't mix well enough. Mortar needs to "set" for a little bit before using, it allows the chemical reaction to start. I usually mix it and let it sit for 10 or so minutes before pouring or troweling. It should be the consistency of thick pudding before using. Too much water will make it "slump" too much, or not hold it's shape. Your pots will probably not strengthen in a few days, but get weaker and they dry out. Pea rock or a small aggregate should be added if you want to pour into a mold, and adding a little extra Portland cement to the mixture will strengthen the typical bag mixes sold in Home Centers.
Answered by fishlakeguy - Thu Oct 23 03:36:26 2008

How Do I Mortar on Stone Foundation in Basement?
Q. I own my home that has a stone foundation. It is in good shape but does need to be maintained by being mortared. I have never done this before. If I buy the premixed mortar, is it as easy as mixing and spackling onto the areas that need mortaring? Thank you.
Asked by bethizmom - Tue Jan 29 08:12:53 2008 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments

A. You can hit the Home Depot and buy premixed mortar that just needs water. You'll also want a trowel and a small rectangular bucket you can hold while applying the mortar. Mix it in a 5 gal bucket and go nuts. It's that easy.
Answered by DEACTIVATED - Tue Jan 29 09:32:07 2008