Masonry Magazine May 2006 Page. 42
MORTAR
Mortar is a workable paste used to bind building blocks such as stones, bricks, and concrete masonry units together, fill and seal the irregular gaps between them, and sometimes add decorative colors or patterns in masonry walls. In its broadest sense, mortar includes pitch, asphalt, and soft mud or clay, as used between mud bricks. The word "mortar" comes from the Latin word "mortarium," meaning a vessel for pounding or grinding.
Cement mortar hardens when cement hydrates, independently of the mixture's exposure to air; it can then be applied even under water.
# Types
* **Lime mortars:** Lime mortars are based on a mixture of lime and an aggregate such as sand. They are one of the oldest known types of mortar.
* **Cement mortars:** Cement mortars are made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water. They are stronger and more durable than lime mortars.
* **Hydraulic lime mortars:** Hydraulic lime mortars set by hydration and can therefore set under water.
* **Polymer mortars:** Polymer mortars are made from a mixture of polymer resins and aggregates. These mortars offer high adhesion, chemical resistance, and flexibility.
GROUT
Grout is a dense fluid which is used to fill gaps or used as reinforcement in existing structures. Grout is generally a mixture of water, cement, and sand, and is employed in pressure grouting, embedding rebar in masonry walls, connecting sections of pre-cast concrete, filling voids, and sealing joints, such as those between tiles.
# Types
* **Cementitious Grouts:** These are the most common type, made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water. They are suitable for most tiling applications.
* **Epoxy Grouts:** Epoxy grouts are made from epoxy resins and a hardener. They are highly durable, stain-resistant, and chemical-resistant, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and areas exposed to harsh chemicals.
* **Furan Resin Grouts:** These grouts are highly chemical-resistant and are used in industrial settings where exposure to strong chemicals is common.
* **Acrylic Grouts:** Acrylic grouts are polymer-modified grouts that offer improved flexibility and adhesion compared to cementitious grouts.
CAULK
Caulk is a material used to seal joints or seams against leakage. It can be used to fill gaps between two surfaces, such as around windows and door frames, or to seal joints in plumbing fixtures. Caulk is typically a flexible material that can accommodate movement between the surfaces it is sealing.
# Types
* **Acrylic Latex Caulk:** This is a general-purpose caulk that is easy to apply and clean up. It is suitable for interior applications and can be painted.
* **Silicone Caulk:** Silicone caulk is highly water-resistant and flexible, making it ideal for use in bathrooms and kitchens. It is also resistant to mold and mildew.
* **Polyurethane Caulk:** Polyurethane caulk is a durable and flexible caulk that is suitable for both interior and exterior applications. It is resistant to weathering and chemicals.
* **Butyl Rubber Caulk:** Butyl rubber caulk is a highly water-resistant caulk that is often used for sealing roofs and gutters.