Masonry mixtures: types and their features

Advice

The masonry mixture is actively used for the preparation of mortars. It is very simple to make it yourself, and even a novice builder can cope with this task. The most popular home-made mortar is the one used in the bricklaying process.

To prepare the solution, you need a very small set of basic tools. First of all, it is a metal strainer. Even if the mixture is very good, it should still be sieved so that nothing superfluous gets into the solution. For this, a sieve with very small cells up to 3 mm in size is suitable. From the containers, you will also need dishes for mixing the base, and, if necessary, also for adding dyes. You will also need a shovel and, of course, the mixture itself.

Another important recommendation is that you always need to calculate the amount of mixture that will be used. Due to this, you can not only save money, but also simplify the repair process, because you do not have to postpone work in order to go and re-purchase everything you need for construction. If you cannot calculate the required amount of materials, then you can contact the consultants in the store.

The kneading process is one of the most important. After all, it depends on this how well the work will be done.

First of all, it is important to adhere to the proportions indicated on the package. The mixture is stirred with water and then left alone for a few minutes.

This time is already enough for all components to swell.

In order not to transfer the product and not to increase the consumption, before preparing the solution, it is necessary to calculate the volume of the room again and estimate approximately how much solution is needed.

The work with color mixtures is also worth noting. Coloring agents are added to the solution separately. They should also be prepared in advance by dissolving in warm water. This colored liquid is poured into the main container, where the mixture itself is added.

It has already been said that it is preferable to choose a product from a trusted company. It is best if the brand has a certificate confirming the quality of the product. Whenever possible, when faced with an unfamiliar manufacturer, it is advisable to check what reviews are left about it.

Safety rules at work are also very important. Of course, a mortar from a masonry mixture is not a very harmful product.

But you still need to be careful during the construction or installation of walls and partitions.

This is especially true if some modifying substances are added to the solution, for example, additives that contribute to the faster hardening of the composition. They are, of course, necessary and useful, but they can harm the human body.

It is very important to determine not only whether the mixture is of good quality, but also how good the hand-made solution is. In order to understand whether we managed to cope with the task or not, just look at the mixture

A high-quality mortar from masonry mixes always has the consistency of thick sour cream. Additionally, it is worth scooping up some product with a shovel and seeing how quickly the solution spreads. Drops should drain slowly.

Further, the product, as already mentioned, should be applied confidently and quickly so that the product does not freeze and harden. Regardless of the purpose for which this building material is used, quick and efficient work will only improve the result.

Masonry mixes are different, and it is worth buying them, clearly focusing on your needs.It is from this, as well as from the responsible attitude to the preparation of the solution, that the result of the repair depends. Knowing all the features of the materials, it is much easier to cope with the task of choosing the ideal composition. So you don't have to worry about the lack of experience as a builder and work with masonry mixtures yourself.

How to prepare a colored masonry mixture, see below.

Color palette

* The colors presented on the site are for informational purposes only. We recommend choosing the color of the product you are interested in according to samples.

* Exhibition samples of colored masonry mix are indicative only.
The final appearance of the brickwork depends on a number of factors: the temperature and humidity conditions of the environment during the work, the quality of the water used for mixing the mixture, the implementation of the manufacturer's recommendations and the addition of various impurities in the preparation of the mortar, adherence to the jointing technology and the requirements for the tool, the conditions of care behind freshly laid masonry ..

Color chart:

Views

There is a wide variety of masonry mixes, but they are all conditionally divided into two types:

General construction. Suitable for the construction of walls in residential and public buildings. The most widespread are the compositions M-200 and M-150, which are distinguished by high performance properties. Almost every manufacturer uses these mixtures as a base, adjusting the properties of the composition with the help of additives and modifiers.

Depending on the composition and scope of application, some types of masonry mixtures are also distinguished:

Cement. Such an assembly mixture is characterized by increased indicators of strength, rigidity, but does not allow obtaining aesthetically pleasing seams. The composition is used in private construction (mainly when laying the foundation), it is suitable for the construction of multi-storey buildings.

There are also universal compounds that are used by builders for all types of bricks, cellular building blocks, artificial stone. They are not used only for clinker bricks or tiles, since the compositions for these materials must have a higher viscosity. However, professional builders prefer to select a special masonry mixture for each type of material.

For example, for large-sized cellular concrete blocks, ceramic blocks characterized by a porous surface, concrete analogs based on porous aggregates, it is recommended to use heat-insulating masonry mixtures. By itself, such masonry has high heat losses, which can be leveled by the heat-insulating solution.

Warm masonry is obtained through the use of solutions with perlite or other fine-grained bulk insulation in the composition. In this regard, this mixture may have another name - perlite.

Reducing the thickness of the masonry joint to 2-3 mm also makes it possible to increase the thermal efficiency of masonry made of foam and gas blocks. This prevents the appearance of "cold bridges", but it is possible only if thin-layer adhesive mixtures are used. Despite the smaller thickness (which also leads to a more economical consumption of the composition), adhesive solutions have improved adhesion.

For the laying of stoves and fireplaces, a refractory mixture is required. As a rule, this is a clay-chamotte version, consisting of a special, pre-fired clay with the addition of other elements. A feature of such a mixture is the ability to withstand heating over 1 thousand degrees and at the same time become even more durable. A mixture for stove or fireplace masonry should be not only refractory and heat-resistant, but also environmentally friendly.

If the work is carried out at subzero temperatures (of course, this method is not recommended, but all kinds of situations happen in life), then the so-called "winter" masonry mixture will do. In its composition there are modifiers that accelerate the setting of the seam, preventing the manifestation of the negative properties of the components of the mixture with a decrease in temperature.

For aboveground and underground work, different formulations are also required. The density of the former is usually higher, and they are characterized by increased strength, the ability to withstand pressure and the action of groundwater.

When joining the facade, it is important to select the appropriate shade of the seams. There is a color and white mixture for this.

The first option corresponds to the variety of shades of colored bricks, and the second is prepared exclusively on the basis of white Portland cement.

The white mixture is usually used as a facing or when restoring the seams of buildings after many years of use. Usually these are cement-sand compositions with the addition of modifiers and lime milk.

Views

There is a wide variety of masonry mixes, but they are all conditionally divided into two types:

General construction. Suitable for the construction of walls in residential and public buildings. The most widespread are the compositions M-200 and M-150, which are distinguished by high performance properties. Almost every manufacturer uses these mixtures as a base, adjusting the properties of the composition with the help of additives and modifiers.

Depending on the composition and scope of application, some types of masonry mixtures are also distinguished:

Cement. Such an assembly mixture is characterized by increased indicators of strength, rigidity, but does not allow obtaining aesthetically pleasing seams. The composition is used in private construction (mainly when laying the foundation), it is suitable for the construction of multi-storey buildings.

There are also universal compounds that are used by builders for all types of bricks, cellular building blocks, artificial stone. They are not used only for clinker bricks or tiles, since the compositions for these materials must have a higher viscosity. However, professional builders prefer to select a special masonry mixture for each type of material.

For example, for large-sized cellular concrete blocks, ceramic blocks characterized by a porous surface, concrete analogs based on porous aggregates, it is recommended to use heat-insulating masonry mixtures. By itself, such masonry has high heat losses, which can be leveled by the heat-insulating solution.

Warm masonry is obtained through the use of solutions with perlite or other fine-grained bulk insulation in the composition. In this regard, this mixture may have another name - perlite.

Reducing the thickness of the masonry joint to 2-3 mm also makes it possible to increase the thermal efficiency of masonry made of foam and gas blocks. This prevents the appearance of "cold bridges", but it is possible only if thin-layer adhesive mixtures are used. Despite the smaller thickness (which also leads to a more economical consumption of the composition), adhesive solutions have improved adhesion.

For the laying of stoves and fireplaces, a refractory mixture is required. As a rule, this is a clay-chamotte version, consisting of a special, pre-fired clay with the addition of other elements. A feature of such a mixture is the ability to withstand heating over 1 thousand degrees and at the same time become even more durable. A mixture for stove or fireplace masonry should be not only refractory and heat-resistant, but also environmentally friendly.

If the work is carried out at negative temperatures (of course, this method is not recommended, but all kinds of situations happen in life), then the so-called "winter" masonry mix will do.In its composition there are modifiers that accelerate the setting of the seam, preventing the manifestation of the negative properties of the components of the mixture with a decrease in temperature.

For aboveground and underground work, different formulations are also required. The density of the former is usually higher, and they are characterized by increased strength, the ability to withstand pressure and the action of groundwater.

The first option corresponds to the variety of shades of colored bricks, and the second is prepared exclusively on the basis of white Portland cement.

The white mixture is usually used as a facing or when restoring the seams of buildings after many years of use. Usually these are cement-sand compositions with the addition of modifiers and lime milk.

Peculiarities

A masonry mixture is a dry material that is used for finishing joints and for laying bricks. In the process of work, the dry mixture is diluted with water, turning into a dense solution. It should not be too liquid, but, on the contrary, elastic and durable.

As part of the classic masonry mixture, there are several mandatory components, regardless of which brand the products are purchased. The main component is, of course, a binder. Without it, the solution will not be thick and elastic enough. Either cement or simple clay is most often used as a binding agent.

Also included in the composition and filler. As a rule, it is either expanded clay or ordinary sand. Most manufacturers supplement the composition of the dry mix with various mineral additives.

In order for the walls to be finished without risking spoiling their appearance, the assortment also includes colored mixtures. They contain high quality natural dye. There are not only mixtures of shades of brown or terracotta, but also brighter options.

There are several basic requirements for a dry mix. First, it must turn into a solid solution. This is one of the most important points. Indeed, the strength of the solution also determines how well the composition lays down, and how long the wall will stand. The most durable is the cement composition. Use it for outdoor decoration. Such a solution is good because it hardens quickly and is durable.

For facades, professionals recommend using colored mixtures. The fact is that the facade is the “face” of the house, and it should definitely be beautiful. In the case of colored mixtures, you can choose a material that will perfectly match the color of the brick or finishing materials.

There are no such requirements for the mixture used for pouring the foundation. Most often, you can limit yourself to a classic cement composition with a minimum of additives. The main thing is that it is as durable as possible.

The second important point is the plasticity of the mixture.

This is especially important if you need to apply a thin layer of mortar. For example, trim the base of the fireplace

The fact is that a dense layer of the product will be difficult to distribute over the surface of the wall. In addition, the plasticity of the mixture facilitates the process of finishing the joint gaps.

Mix composition:

• Cement M500 D0 is a high-quality additive-free cement recommended by European experts. The use of this brand of cement minimizes the risk of salt release and deterioration of the strength of the structure;
• High-quality, washed and fractional sand, with a carefully selected ratio, which prevents clay and harmful impurities from entering the solution, leading to a decrease in strength and cracking. Careful selection of the sand fraction and the use of dolomite flour can increase the strength and service life of the material;
• Mineral color pigments Bayferox from Bayer AG, Germany. The use of these pigments gives high color stability, seam immunity to precipitation and sunlight;
• Polymer additives - they can improve the primary adhesion of the material, its stability, as well as the strength and water resistance of the coating itself.

Views

There are several main types of mixtures. Each of them has its own characteristics that must be taken into account when looking for a suitable material.

Optimal

This type of dry mix is ​​used during the construction of houses. Thanks to the use of such a product, the thermal insulation properties of the room can be increased. A classic red brick house will become warm and cozy if you choose a quality product. For example, a friable masonry mixture in which sand is combined with cement. The same solution is used for laying paving slabs.

In some cases, additional components are added to the optimal mixtures, which make it possible to extend the storage time of the solution. This means that if the construction process takes a long time, then such a product is perfect for the job. The composition can be prepared in the morning and fully used throughout the day.

Mixed

Another option for mixtures for installation work is mixed compositions. Such a cement mixture is much more elastic and plastic. In addition, it provides moisture protection to the room. A composition of this type is a product based on Portland cement, in which there are a lot of impurities and mineral or lime additives.

Mixed options include clay-chamotte or perlite mixtures, for example. They can be called a "winter" option, since the use of a solution on such a basis makes it possible to insulate the building very well.

Colored

In addition to the main products in gray and white, there is another interesting option - this is a colored masonry mixture. The addition of the dye does not in any way affect the density of the solution. The color mixture is a real godsend for the designer.

By the way, it is not necessary to buy a ready-made color mixture. You can create it yourself at home. To do this, you need to take a cement base. If a light shade is required, then the cement base should be white. If you want to get a darker tone, then gray cement will do. Dyes diluted in water are introduced into this base, which change the shade of the solution.

Special

Special mixtures deserve special attention. They are not used to work on a house, but for the construction of large enough buildings. One of the most popular types of masonry mix is ​​M200.

Mode of application

Pour the mixture into a container with clean water (at the rate of 7.5 - 9 liters of water per 50 kg of dry mixture) and stir mechanically until a homogeneous mass is obtained (about 5 minutes). Let the solution stand for 3-5 minutes, then stir for 2-3 minutes. The consistency of the solution is rigid and plastic. The introduction of any foreign additives or aggregates into the mixture is not allowed. In case of loss of mobility, revitalize the mortar mixture by stirring again, without adding water.

The mixture must be applied in accordance with SNiP 3.03.01-87.

During drying, the mixture must be protected from high humidity, high temperatures and direct sunlight.

Mixture consumption

Packaging and storage

The mixture is supplied in paper bags of 50 or 25 kg (depending on the packaging chosen by the buyer). Store in original packaging on wooden pallets, avoiding moisture and ensuring the integrity of the package, in covered dry warehouses with a relative humidity of no more than 60%. The guaranteed shelf life in the package is 12 months from the date of manufacture.

Security measures

Wear goggles, rubber gloves and protective clothing when working. If the mixture gets on the skin or eyes, rinse the affected area thoroughly with running water, consult a doctor if necessary.

Manufacturers

Today there are many different manufacturers of masonry mixes.But buyers tend to prefer proven brands.

Brozex

This brand produces high-quality mixtures, in which, in addition to cement and pure sand, a set of mineral mixtures is added. Due to this, the final product turns out to be more plastic, resistant to moisture and strong.

When working with these mixtures, it is worth considering only that solutions from them should not be kneaded in cold or frosty weather. The rest of the mixes from Brozex are very good. They get a lot of positive feedback from their customers. Almost everyone who used them in the repair process is ready to confirm that the preparation of the solution is a fairly easy process. The mixtures can be mixed without problems if the instructions on the packaging are followed exactly.

The main thing is to mix the solution thoroughly and give it the necessary time to settle. The resulting product is equally well suited for filling joints and for finishing walls. The range of the company is quite large, so you can find mixtures that are suitable for a variety of purposes - from floor screed to brick laying.

Perel

Among the manufacturers of color mixtures, this particular brand is worth highlighting. The reaction of buyers to their product and the wide choice are also pleasantly pleasing. In the assortment of the brand, you can find 14 different shades that will help to bring a variety of creative ideas into reality.

By the way, all color mixtures are presented in two versions. One is summer, the other is winter. The first option is suitable for hot weather and can withstand heat up to thirty degrees. The second one can be used in cold weather. Such a solution can withstand harsh cold, which is ideal for our cold country.

Perel mixes have a good composition. There are no additives in cement that spoil the quality of this base; fractional sand is used. The base is supplemented with polymer additives and mineral pigments. The material is consumed economically, so a 20 kg package is enough for repairs.

In addition to these brands, firms such as Terracotta or Osnovit also have a good reputation. They are quite common, so it is not difficult to find a masonry mix from the right manufacturer in a building materials store.