Cement for brick laying

One of the most important construction skills is laying bricks, and the quality and longevity of the work are greatly influenced by the cement selection. Knowing the correct type of cement and how to use it is crucial whether you are building a wall, patio, or any other brick structure.

Various cement types may be needed for different projects, and each type has advantages and disadvantages of its own. While some cements are more workable than others, others are stronger or more resistant to weather. Making the right cement choice will guarantee that your brickwork is structurally sound and will last for many years.

This post will discuss the different kinds of cement that are appropriate for laying bricks, their unique characteristics, and how to select the best cement for your project. Even if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, we’ll go over the best ways to mix and apply cement to get polished results.

Cement consumption per 1 m3 of masonry

You should set the following initial data in order to calculate the required amount of binder accurately:

  • Type and dimensions of brick: single standard solid, 250x120x65 mm.
  • Number of bricks in 1 m3 of masonry, taking into account mortar joints: 394 pcs.
  • Number of bricks in 1 m3 of masonry excluding mortar joints: 512 pcs.
  • Cement grade on the basis of which the mortar will be prepared: CEM I 32.5N PC.
  • Brand and composition of mortar: M75, cement-sand and cement-lime.
  • Proportions of mortar components in kilograms: 1 part cement: 5 parts sand: 1 part water or 1 part cement: 0.71 parts lime: 6 parts sand: 1 part water.

Why is the amount of cement used for bricklaying determined using these and not other initial data? These are the most widely used types, brands, and sizes. We’ll talk about the general idea of calculation using a particular example below. By applying this concept, cement for masonry can be calculated with additional starting information, such as the dimensions of the bricks, a different brand of mortar, a different brand of cement, etc.

Mortar for brickwork – how much is needed for 1 m3

  • We calculate the volume of masonry mortar for 1 m3. Considering that in 1 m3 excluding seams there are 512 units of brick, and taking into account the seams 394 units of brick, the volume of the mathematical difference 512-394 = 118 pcs. bricks, and there is the required volume of mortar "in bricks".
  • We calculate the amount of mortar that will be required for 1 m3 of masonry. To do this, we determine the total volume of 118 bricks (in cubic meters): (0.25 x 0.15 x 0.065) x 118 = 0.287 m3.
  • We determine the mass of cement in 1 m3 of cement-sand mortar grade M75 in kg. Using the tabular data of the regulatory document (SP82-101-98) – in 1 m3 of masonry mortar M75 there are 283 kg of cement CEM I 32.5N PC.
  • Cement consumption per 1 cubic meter of masonry: 283 kg x 0.287 m3 / 1 m3 = 81.2 kg.

Depending on the brand, we also advise using our calculator to determine mortar consumption for bricklaying.

The kind of cement you use when laying bricks affects how strong and long-lasting your construction will be. The stability and resistance to weathering of the brickwork are guaranteed by selecting the proper cement. The best types of cement for laying bricks will be covered in this article along with an explanation of their unique qualities and helpful mixing and application advice to ensure a sturdy, long-lasting structure.

Cement consumption for masonry with cement-lime mortar

The mortar’s composition and proportions are the calculation’s variable values in this instance. You can use all other calculation data from the earlier computation. Cement for bricklaying with lime mortar M75 is calculated as follows: 233×0.287/1=67 kg in accordance with SP82-101-98. Where 1 m3 of lime-based building material requires 233 kg of cement to be prepared.

We can determine the following by examining the example of calculating the amount of cement per cubic meter of masonry using a single standard solid brick. It is crucial to understand the required number of pieces per 1 m3, excluding seams, and the required number while accounting for masonry joints when using different types of brick.

The cement needed for the masonry cannot be calculated in any other way. Note that depending on the type of masonry and the skill level of the mason, these numbers regarding the number of bricks accounting for the masonry joints are approximate (empirical).

However, it makes sense to provide the known data for the number of bricks in 1 3 other types in the following table in order to be able to calculate how much cement is needed for masonry of other types of brick:

Type of brick Quantity in 1 m3 excluding mortar joints, pcs. Quantity in 1 m3 taking into account mortar joints, pcs
Standard single simple 512 394
One and a half hollow 378 302
Double slotted 242 200

Without a doubt, the amount of cement used per cubic meter of brickwork, as determined by the provided technology, may vary slightly upward or downward. A bricklayer shall place a brick on a mortar layer with a minimum thickness of 10 mm and a maximum thickness of 12 mm, respectively. There is a 20% difference, no more, no less!

Brand of cement for masonry

There’s no doubt that amateur builders will wonder what kind of cement is best for brickwork. The answer is straightforward: the wall-laying cement brand should not be lower than CEM I 32.5N PC or higher than CEM I 42.5N PC (formerly known as M400 and M500).

These are the best brands of Portland cement in terms of price, strength, and market availability. Regarding the solution’s grade, M50 or M75 cement mortar is most frequently used for bricklaying in low-rise construction. Stronger mortar grades (M150 and M200) are reserved for unique construction applications.

Cement Type Description
Portland Cement Commonly used for bricklaying, known for its strength and durability.
Masonry Cement Specially formulated for masonry work, easier to work with and provides good bonding.
White Cement Used for decorative bricklaying, offers a clean, bright finish.
Rapid Hardening Cement Ideal for projects needing quick setting times, reduces waiting period.

Selecting the appropriate cement for bricklaying is essential to guaranteeing the longevity and steadiness of your building endeavor. The right mixture gives the bricks the strength they need to endure a variety of weather conditions in addition to binding them together.

Take into account the particular needs of your project when choosing your cement. Portland cement is a popular and dependable choice for general bricklaying. It provides good adherence and is adaptable enough to meet most construction requirements. However, choosing specialized cements like masonry or sulfate-resistant types can offer extra protection and longevity if you’re working in harsh climates or on structures that require extra resilience.

Applying and mixing cement correctly are equally crucial. A strong bond can be achieved with consistency in the mixture and the proper ratios of cement, sand, and water. Adhere to the suggested guidelines and best practices to steer clear of common pitfalls such as mortar cracks or weak joints.

Ultimately, the effort invested in selecting the appropriate cement and properly implementing its application will yield a sturdy, long-lasting construction. Knowing the fundamentals of cement for bricklaying, whether you’re a professional builder or a do-it-yourself enthusiast, can make a big difference in the caliber and outcome of your construction projects.

Video on the topic

What to use for bricklaying: masonry mix or cement-sand mortar? Part 2

Mortar for Bricklaying / HOW TO CORRECTLY PREPARE MORTAR FOR BRICKLAYING

Mortar for Masonry, 2 ways to make masonry mortar with your own hands !

How to make cement mortar for bricklaying with your own hands. Build!KA

Laying hollow cement-sand blocks

What to use for bricklaying: masonry mix or cement-sand mortar? Part 1

Which aspect of concrete application are you most interested in?
Share to friends
Anna Vasilieva

Journalist with a technical education, specializing in construction topics. I can explain complex technical topics in simple and accessible language.

Rate author
StroyComfort1.com
Add a comment