Sand and cement mortar is a traditional mix used in construction for bonding and pointing bricks. It consists of sharp sand, cement, and water, sometimes with plasticisers to improve workability. It’s strong, readily available, and affordable, making it a popular choice.
How Sand-Cement Mortar is Used for Pointing
Pointing is the process of filling joints between bricks or stones to seal and strengthen masonry. With sand and cement mortar, the mix is applied into the joints using a pointing trowel, ensuring a smooth and compact finish.
Advantages of Sand-Cement Mortar
- Strong and Durable: Provides a tough bond between bricks.
- Weather Resistant: Holds up well against rain and frost.
- Quick Setting: Cures faster than traditional lime mortar.
- Cost-Effective: Easily accessible and affordable.
Limitations of Sand-Cement Mortar
- Prone to Cracking: As it hardens quickly, it can develop cracks over time.
- Limited Flexibility: Not ideal for older buildings that move slightly over time.
- Colour Variability: Achieving a consistent shade can be tricky, leading to mismatched areas.
What is Lime-Based Mortar?
Lime-based mortar is a mix of lime, sand, and water, sometimes with natural additives. It has been used for centuries and is known for its superior flexibility, breathability, and longevity.
We sell tried and tested Lime Based Mortars direclty on our website, you can take a look at the different mortar colours available here on our Mortars section of our website.
Why Lime-Based Mortar is a Better Choice
Lime mortar is simply the superior option for pointing, especially when considering historic buildings, restorations, or achieving a professional finish. Let’s explore why.
Colour Consistency: Lime vs. Sand-Cement Mortar
One of the biggest drawbacks of sand and cement mortar is its inconsistent colouring. Achieving a perfect colour match each time can be difficult. With lime-based mortars, you get a consistent colour that matches perfectly every time, ensuring a professional and seamless look.
Which Mortar Should You Choose?
If you want a strong, traditional look on a budget, cement mortar may be your pick. However, if you value consistency, durability, and long-term benefits, lime-based mortar is the clear winner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pointing
- Using too much cement, leading to a brittle mix.
- Ignoring colour consistency, resulting in mismatched joints.
- Applying mortar in unsuitable weather conditions, affecting adhesion.
Final Thoughts
While sand and cement mortar has its uses, lime-based mortar stands out as the superior choice for pointing. With better flexibility, breathability, and colour consistency, it ensures a long-lasting, beautiful finish. If you’re after a perfect match every time, lime mortar is the way to go!
FAQs
1. Why does sand and cement mortar crack over time?
Cement-based mortar is rigid and doesn’t allow for movement in a building. Over time, this leads to cracks, especially in older structures that naturally expand and contract.
2. Can I use sand and cement mortar on an old building?
It’s not recommended. Older buildings benefit from lime mortar, which allows for flexibility and breathability, preventing moisture-related damage.
3. How long does lime mortar last compared to cement mortar?
Lime mortar can last decades without issues, while cement mortar may need repointing within 10-20 years due to cracking.
4. Does lime mortar take longer to set?
Yes, lime mortar takes longer to cure than cement-based mortar, but this allows for better bonding, flexibility, and colour consistency.
5. Is lime mortar more expensive than sand and cement mortar?
While lime mortar can be slightly more expensive upfront, it saves money in the long run by reducing maintenance and repair costs.
By making the right choice for your pointing project, you ensure not only a visually appealing result but also a long-lasting and resilient structure. Choose lime mortar for the perfect match, every time!
