Different Types Of Brick Mortar Mix
The brick mortar mix is used to bind bricks or other masonry units jointly and add structural strength to the wall or other structure. Generally, four types of mortar mix like N, O, S, and M are found. Each type is blended with a diverse proportion of cement, lime, and sand to include certain features like flexibility, bonding properties, and compressive strength. The quality of mortar mix type for any project is based on the application and the different design specifications for the masonry construction.
Mortar mix is developed with Portland cement, hydrated lime, and sand which are amalgamated in specific ratios to satisfy required specifications.
Type N Mortar Mix
Type N mortar is useful for exterior and above-grade walls which are uncovered to harsh weather and high heat. Type N mortar mix contains a medium compressive strength and it is made of 1 part Portland cement, 1 part lime, and 6 parts sand. It is treated as a general-purpose mix, suitable for above grade, exterior, and interior load-bearing installations. It is also very effective for soft stone masonry. Type N is commonly utilized by the homeowners and is ideal for general application.
It usually attains 28-day strength in the range of 750 pounds per square inch (psi).
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Type O Mortar Mix
Type O mortar mix contains comparatively low compressive strength, at only about 350 psi. It is mainly applied for interior, above-grade, non-load–bearing walls. Type O is a good substitute of Type N for some interior applications, but its exterior application is restricted because of its low structural strength. It is not suitable for the areas prone to high winds. However, type O mortar mix is useful for repointing and same type of repair work on subsisting structures, owing to its uniformity and smooth application.
Type S Mortar Mix
It provides a high compressive strength of over 1,800 psi and a high-tensile bond strength. Type S mortar is ideal for several projects at or below grade. It has good functionality to resist soil pressure and wind and seismic loads. Type S belongs to the common choice for several below-grade applications like masonry foundations, manholes, retaining walls, and sewers, as well as at-grade projects like brick patios and walkways. While type S mortar should contain a minimum compressive strength of 1,800 psi, it is frequently mixed for strengths among 2,300 and 3,000 psi.
Type M Mortar Mix
Type M mortar mix contains greater amount of Portland cement and is perfect for heavy loads and below-grade applications, along with foundations, retaining walls, and driveways. Although type M mortar offers minimum 2,500 psi of compressive strength, it provides comparatively weak adhesion and sealing properties and as a result it becomes incompatible for several exposed applications. Type M can be applied with natural stone since it provides same strength to that of stone.
Type K Mortar Mix
Type K brick mortar mix is seldom utilized for new construction but specifically applied for restoration or other specialty applications. It provides a very low compressive strength of only about 75 psi. Due to its softness, type K is mainly recommended for recovering the masonry on historic or ancient buildings that necessitates a special mix not much stronger as compared to the existing masonry.