Serious question, have you noticed how new mortar sets too fast?

Back in the day, we had mortar that gave us time to adjust bricks (you know, like the good old stuff). Now, the mix dries in minutes, which can lead to messy joints if you're not quick. I've seen whole walls need redoing because of this rush (it's a real pain). Just a heads-up to test your batch before you start a big project.

3 comments

3 Comments

barbaraanderson1d ago

Mortar's just keeping up with our need for instant gratification.

hayes.joel1d ago

Yeah totally feel this. Grab a spray bottle and mist the bricks before laying them, buys you a few extra minutes. If the mortar's already going off, tap your brick into place instead of sliding it. Worst case, don't be afraid to chuck a too-stiff batch, adding more water just makes it weak later.

casey_ramirez355h ago

Spread your mortar a bit thinner than you think, it gives you a bigger window before it skins over. Keep a margin trowel handy to scrape up and reuse the stuff that oozes out the sides. A clean mortar board is key too, dried bits get mixed in and set everything off faster.