Cement Mortar, Meaning, Strength, and Use
Understanding Cement Mortar
Cement mortar is a widely used construction material made from cement, sand, and water. It is known for its strength, durability, and fast setting properties, making it a standard choice in modern brickwork and construction projects.
Compared to lime mortar, cement mortar is harder and less permeable, providing strong bonding and resistance to weather exposure when used correctly.
Purpose of Cement Mortar
The main purpose of cement mortar is to create a strong and durable bond between bricks while protecting joints from environmental damage. Its strength makes it suitable for modern buildings and external walls exposed to harsh conditions.
Key reasons cement mortar is used include:
-
Providing high compressive strength.
-
Offering good resistance to weather and moisture.
-
Allowing faster setting and construction times.
-
Supporting modern building standards and methods.
Cement mortar is chosen where strength and durability are the primary requirements.
Cement Mortar in Traditional Brickwork
In traditional brick construction, cement mortar became common in the twentieth century as building methods evolved. It is widely used in modern housing and commercial buildings where bricks are designed to work with stronger mortar.
However, cement mortar is generally unsuitable for older buildings with softer bricks, as its rigidity can lead to cracking and long term damage.
Cement Mortar with Brick Slips
Cement mortar is commonly used with brick slips, particularly for external installations where durability and weather resistance are important. It provides a strong joint finish that performs well in exposed conditions.
When used for brick slip pointing, cement mortar should be selected carefully to ensure compatibility with the brick slips and the overall system.
Cement Mortar and Slips from Stock
At Slips from Stock, our brick slips are compatible with suitable cement based mortars for both internal and external applications. When chosen and applied correctly, cement mortar delivers a durable and professional finish to brick slip installations.
Cement mortar is a reliable and widely used material in modern construction. When matched correctly with brick type and application, it provides long lasting strength and protection while maintaining a clean and consistent brickwork appearance.