bricklaying mortar

[ACC]

what is the correct mix for bricklaying mortar is it 3 parts sand to 1 part cement ?

[spacechimp]

According the "THE SUNDAY TIMES BOOK OF DO-IT-YOURSELF" (Published in 1976 by Sphere Books Ltd) the correct ratio of sand to cement for bricklaying mortar is two parts of sand to one part cement.

[Clanad]

But only if the cement is already premixed with lime for bricklaying. If not the correct mix for above ground bricklaying is 5:1:1 (sand, cement, lime)

[spacechimp]

No, that's a vicious lie. A lie I tell you. "One part masonry cement to four of soft sand is suitable for most work, but certain bricks may need a slightly different mix" is correct (to my knowledge). For reference, "the lie" is the correct ratio for pointing work, I believe.

[spacechimp]

My first answer was the lie, not Clanad's. He jumped in whilst I was correcting myself.

[Mudman]

Good come-back Spacechimp.. Allmost got yourself reported there! lol

[spacechimp]

What did I do wrong? :S

[Top_Gooner]

3:1 is a very strong mix and would have very limited workability. (As well as being expensive).The correct mix for above ground work, using a medium density brick would be in the region of 4:1:1 to 6:1:1 (sand:cem:lime). The lime would act as a plasticiser and increase the workability of the mix, as well as retarding the setting time of the cement.