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Tuesday, October 13, 2026
The Company Chronicle

General construction glossary

Mortar

Mortar is a workable paste of cement, sand and water, sometimes with lime, used to bed and bond masonry units such as bricks and blocks.

Mortar is a workable paste of cement, sand and water, sometimes with lime, used to bed and bond masonry units such as bricks and blocks.

Definition

Mortar is the material between masonry units. It spreads the load, seals the joint and holds the units together.

A plain example

Illustrative example: a mason lays concrete blocks for a garden wall. Each course is bedded in mortar, and the joints are tooled to shed water.

Why it matters

The mortar type affects strength, flexibility and how a wall handles movement and weather, so it should match the masonry and the exposure.

Common confusion

Mortar is not grout and not concrete. It bonds units. Grout fills cores, and concrete is a structural mix with coarse aggregate.

On a project

Match mortar to the specification, keep batches consistent, and protect fresh work from rain, frost and very hot weather as the manufacturer and the code require.

Quick answers

  • What is mortar made of? Cement, sand, water and often lime or other additives.
  • Are there different mortar types? Yes. Types differ in strength and flexibility, and the specification names which to use.
  • Can I repair old masonry with any mortar? Not safely. Old masonry may need a softer mix. Ask a masonry specialist.

Related terms

Always check the project drawings and specification, and confirm requirements with the engineer of record and the local authority.

Questions people ask

What is mortar made of?

Cement, sand, water and often lime or other additives.

Are there different mortar types?

Yes. Types differ in strength and flexibility, and the specification names which to use.

Can I repair old masonry with any mortar?

Not safely. Old masonry may need a softer mix. Ask a masonry specialist.

Sources and further reading

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