Selecting an appropriate type of mortar

The type of mortar is chosen according to the requirements of the work, the load, exposure, cost and availability.

Factors for selection

1. Type and importance of work: load-bearing walls, foundations and structures below ground level need strong cement mortar (1:3 to 1:4); ordinary walls use 1:6; plastering uses 1:4 to 1:6; non-load-bearing partitions and temporary works can use lime or mud mortar.
2. Strength required: cement or gauged mortar for heavy loads; lime mortar for light loads.
3. Exposure: use cement mortar in wet, damp or exposed places (basements, parapets, water retaining structures); use lime mortar for dry interior places.
4. Setting time needed: cement mortar for quick setting; lime mortar for slow.
5. Durability and weather: in frost/rainy areas, cement or gauged mortar.
6. Cost and availability: mud mortar is the cheapest and used in rural areas; surkhi/lime mortar where lime is available.
7. Special purposes: fire-resistant (fire-clay mortar), sound-proof, X-ray shielding (barium), packing mortar for grouting.