What is the correct Mortar Mix ratio for Masonry?
Clem Hellmann of Quality Block and I agree that with pre-mix bags available, unless you are on a major jobsite with at least a dozen masons it’s just not worth mixing yourself. However, if you are inclined to do so our friends at Superlite Block have provided the industry standard directions below. There are a variety of mortar mixes that the mason contractor can mix up, depending on the type of material that is being installed: • Type M (2500 psi) • Type S (1800 psi) • Type N (750 psi) The different types are achieved by varying the ratio of Portland Cement, Lime and Sand. Type S mortar is the most common for the Arizona market so we will use this as the basis for our comparisons. There are three primary ways to make mortar: • Portland Cement, Hydrated Lime and Masonry Sand • Masonry Cement and Masonry Sand • Pre-mixed Mortar The Portland Cement, Hydrated Lime, Masonry Cement and Pre-mixed Mortar are available in bags, the Masonry Sand is generally available in “bulk quantities” that
