How To Mix Mortar

How To Mix Mortar

The bricks have arrived and you're just about ready to construct the finest wall in the UK since Hadrian's. All you need to do now is knock up some mortar and get started. It's an easy job, and as long as you've got half an hour spare, Videojug are going to show you how.

You Will Need

• Spade
• Water
• Cement
• Sand and lime (or plasticiser in cold weather)

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Step 1:

Proportions

If your wall is in a sheltered position, use 1 part cement to 1 part lime and 6 parts sand. If the wall is going to be exposed to lots of wind and rain you'll need the mix to be stronger, so use 1 part cement to 1/2 part lime and 4 parts sand.

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Step 2:

Mixing

Choose a flat site for mixing the mortar. A piece of wood or tarpauline would be ideal so you don't ruin your lawn. Pile up about half the sand you'll be using, add the rest of the ingredients then stick the rest of the sand on top. Give it all a good mix with a spade, then make a small hole in the middle and pour in some clean tap water. Mix it in with the spade until the mix is dry again. Then keep adding more water until the mix has a buttery consistency.

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Step 3:

TOP TIP

You'll know it's ready when it is wet enough to slip easily off the shovel, but hold it's shape if you make a hollow in the mix.