Cement-sand mortar and its technical characteristics: density, weight, proportions, brands, preparation, composition

Because of its strength and versatility, cement-sand mortar is an essential component in construction projects. This mortar offers the binding force required for long-lasting constructions, whether you’re laying bricks, plastering walls, or building foundations. You can choose wisely for your projects if you are aware of its features.

The application and performance of cement-sand mortar are significantly influenced by its density and weight. The strength of the mortar and how much it will weigh down the structures it is used in are determined by these properties. Having this knowledge guarantees the proper combination for the work, preventing structural problems and guaranteeing longevity.

Cement-sand mortar brands and proportions can change depending on the particular needs of a project. The strength, workability, and drying times of various mixes vary. Achieving the desired results in your construction work depends on choosing the appropriate brand and mix proportion.

Cement, sand, and water must be mixed in exactly the right proportions to prepare cement-sand mortar. Although this procedure appears simple, even small changes can have a big effect on how well the mortar works. Knowing the proper preparation methods guarantees a dependable and constant mixture each and every time.

The technical aspects of cement-sand mortar, such as its composition, preparation, weight, brands, and density, will be discussed in this article. You will obtain a thorough grasp of the proper use of this crucial building material by exploring these facets.

Peculiarities

Sand and cement mixtures of superior quality will always be in demand. When the right ratios and premium components are chosen, they can produce a solution with the required qualities, which sets them apart from other solutions. They also have enhanced strength and dependability features.

The primary ingredients of the mixture are cement and sand, which are combined in the amounts specified by GOST and enhanced with specific additives. Cement-sand mortar can be used for both interior and exterior projects. It’s important to research the mixture’s characteristics before making it.

• Ability to choose a building material with characteristics that exactly meet the requirements, among a variety of mixtures on the market.
• Resistance to sudden temperature changes, heat and frost.
• Ease and simplicity in preparation and work – the solution is enough to fill with water (taking the volume specified in the instructions) and mix thoroughly.
• Excellent strength and reliability indicators, long service life.
• Moisture resistance.
• Increased adhesion to any other materials – CPS can be used for finishing different types of blocks, stone, brick, concrete, etc.d.

The following are some drawbacks of cement-sand mortars made from factory-made dry mixes: they are relatively expensive; they must be used right away after being mixed with water; they must be mixed correctly and precisely according to the instructions; and they can be challenging to work with viscous and fairly heavy compositions.

It’s also important to keep in mind that relatively poor adhesion is observed to wooden bases and those coated in paints and varnishes. Gypsum and cement-sand mortar do not mix well; an excessively thick layer of concrete can rip off or distort the base.

As you can see, all of these drawbacks are related to the requirement that all work be done in accordance with the guidelines and instructions; otherwise, cement-sand mixtures would not have any evident drawbacks.

Technical characteristics

GOST defines the qualities, specifications, and attributes that a cement mortar ought to possess. Prior to performing specific tasks and making calculations, they ought to be studied.

Density

The hardened cement-sand layer’s strength and thermal conductivity are significantly influenced by this parameter. The solution becomes fairly dense and heavy if no additional plasticizers or special additives are added. Consequently, the density of a solid state ranges from 1600 to 1800 kg/m3.

CPS can be used for pouring floor screeds as well as interior and exterior finishing because of its high density and strong construction.

Thermal conductivity properties

A relatively high thermal conductivity index is determined by high density. Heat retention is good in a room finished with an exterior or interior cement-sand mixture. Such an effect is not produced by gypsum or other, lighter, more porous materials.

CPS has a coefficient of thermal conductivity of 0.3 W. However, plaster that does not shrink and has a comparable base shows a thermal conductivity level of 0.9 W.

Vapor permeability

It is crucial to consider this parameter while performing finishing. If the layers of materials prevent air from passing through, condensation may build up in the space, which would be perfect for the growth of mold, fungus, and other microbes. The vapor permeability of cement mortar is 0.09 mg/m h Pa, which is a very good level.

Setting time

Cement and sand-based mixtures set in between an hour and an hour and a half. However, a lot here depends on the amount of water in the solution and the addition of unique additives to the mixture, which can alter the time in either a decreasing or increasing direction. Because the material loses strength and becomes unsuitable for pouring, masonry, plastering, and other uses once the hydration process begins, masters advise preparing the mixture in small portions so you have time to use it.

Calculation of the required amount

Prior to beginning the cement-sand mortar preparation, the right material ratio must be selected, and consumption must be ascertained. But first, figure out how much cement mixture is needed so that the materials can be calculated. With a layer thickness of one centimeter, the description typically shows the consumption of finished CPS based on the consumption per square meter. The cost of the material per cubic meter can be calculated by simply multiplying this value by 100.

• High-grade compositions – about 2200 kilograms per cubic meter.
• Lightweight plasters with the addition of lime – from 1200 to 1600 kg / m3.

It is easy to calculate the amount of mixture needed for screed or plaster composition by multiplying the total area of the wall or floor by the layer thickness (measured in centimeters), and then figuring out the volume of mortar that is needed. Regarding the amount of material used in masonry, however, a lot relies on the master’s experience. The technology indicates that the CPS consumption is approximately 25% of the wall volume; however, the indicator is influenced by the quantity of splashes and the seam thickness.

Drying time

The CPS layer’s thickness and the outside temperature affect this parameter. Therefore, a 2 centimeter layer will dry in 12 to 14 hours at a temperature between + 15 and + 25 degrees. The drying time increases with the thickness of the layer.

Experts recommend waiting a day or two after finishing the work (or longer if the layer is large) before modifying the surface in any way.

Consumption of components

Strict adherence to the proportion on which component consumption depends is necessary to prepare cement-sand cement with the necessary strength and properties. Subject to the selection of binder grade M400, the standard (adopted in regulations) ratio of cement and sand in CPS is 1:3 with W/C 0.45-0.55.

• Cement – acts as a binder, usually take M400 or M500, with a production date less than 6 months ago. The fresher the cement, the more active it is and the better the characteristics it will give the mixture.
• Sand – with dense large grain, without impurities of dust and clay. Sand must be clean – this is important, otherwise it must be washed and dried.
• Clean water – without impurities, temperature about +20C.

The proportions of the components in the solution may vary depending on the application’s features and scope. Everything is dependent on the chosen brand.

Varieties

A base of cement and sand is present in many mixtures. They are all displayed in specialty shops and each has unique qualities.

M100

The composition is most often chosen for mixing plaster, since it contains lime and a reduced proportion of cement. The cost of the dry mixture is small, it can be used both for plastering walls inside and outside, and for leveling various surfaces, eliminating defects (lumps, cracks, potholes, drops, cracks, etc.).d.).

M150

This versatile cement-sand mortar can be used to combine plaster and masonry mortars. The mixture can also be used to make a screed that can be applied to repairs. This mixture can be used as a stand-in for many different compounds in daily life. Additives can be added for strength and durability. The mixture is reasonably priced.

• Consumption per 1 m2 is 16.5 kilograms
• The optimal layer thickness is 5-50 millimeters
• Setting time is 2 hours, complete hardening occurs within 24 hours

Masonry mortars M150 that are ready to use can be purchased. Make sure to consider the kind and quantity of additives in the product’s composition when making a purchase.

M200

This is a mortar used in masonry, and its composition varies. There are various kinds of mixtures: foundation/screed, plaster, and masonry. The mortar layer is sturdy and dense; at a 5 millimeter layer thickness, it consumes roughly 7.5 to 8.5 square meters.

M300

The most widely used mixture, sometimes referred to as foundation composition or sand concrete. The mixture offers greater strength, which is important when performing far from all types of work, but it costs more than mixtures below the grade and has a relatively narrow range of applications.

This kind of solution works well for installing substantial assembly structures and creating large screeds. Plastering is not a good use for dry mix.

Scope

These days, cement-sand mixtures are widely used and very popular.

• Interior finishing of premises – a little cement is added to the mixture, lime is introduced, fine-grained and homogeneous sand is selected.
• Universal compositions – suitable for masonry, facade/interior works, screeds. The mass of cement in the solution is standard, often the composition contains plasticizers.
• Masonry – for the construction of mid-rise buildings made of brick.
• Floor screed – rough or finishing, protruding and the main coating.
• Facade finishing works – there is more cement here, hydrophobic additives are added, as well as substances to increase frost resistance and reduce shrinkage.
• Construction of multi-story buildings – M400-M600 mixtures are used, they contain a lot of cement, there is reinforcing fiber, special additives.
• Alignment of walls/floors – elimination of various defects for finishing.

Tools for work

To create the solution, make sure you have everything you’ll need on hand, and if possible, prepare the tools ahead of time to save time later on when you’re searching for the components or pouring them out "by eye" because there aren’t enough containers, etc.

• A container for mixing – a pallet or a concrete mixer, a large rectangular bowl (trough). It is best to choose a concrete mixer, since it is difficult to work with a pallet, and individual components can collect in a container with corners.
• A shovel – for laying components.
• A bucket – used as a measuring container when determining the volume of components.
• A construction mixer or drill for mixing the composition (if a little is being prepared).
• A construction cone – can be useful for determining the level of mobility of the mixture.
• Tools for performing work – rules, trowels, spatulas, etc.., The set depends on the task.

A common element in construction, cement-sand mortar is a multipurpose building material with a reputation for strength and longevity. This post will discuss the essential technical details, like weight and density, as well as the best brands and amounts to use. We’ll walk you through the preparatory steps and examine the different parts that comprise this necessary mixture, giving you a thorough grasp of how to use cement-sand mortar efficiently.

How to prepare

Either make your own sand-cement mixture or purchase a ready-made dry powder. Because the first option is less expensive, artisans frequently select the first one. In this instance, you must accurately weigh and measure the ingredients, mix the mixture fast, and apply the solution as directed.

For screed

The ratio of 1:2 or 1:3 is used to mix cement grade M400 or M500, respectively. At a rate of 0.7–0.9 kilograms per cubic meter of solution, fiber is added to the mixture to remove the possibility of cracks and other surface deformations.

For masonry

The most crucial element in this case is the sand, which needs to be finely ground, dried, and clean. Take three to five parts sand for every one part cement. The solution is prepared in parts; the ratio is then adjusted as needed after the first part’s quality is examined on a different surface.

For plastering

The components (sand and cement) are combined in a standard ratio of one to three. In addition to composition, thorough mixing also determines the strength and quality of the solution.

Manual mixing is very inefficient; instead, use an electric drill with a hammer drill attachment or an electric concrete mixer to get the desired results.

Additives

These days, a considerable number and variety of substances are added in different volumes to the cement-sand mortar’s composition. Choosing the right one from among them can be challenging at times if you are not familiar with the characteristics and attributes of additives.

• PVA glue – provides additional adhesion, plasticity, comfort in working with the solution. Often added to the mixture for plastering.
• Slaked lime – this component needs water, in accordance with the volume of which a certain mass of lime is added (lime water or slaked lime). Slaking is carried out several weeks before the implementation of repair work.
• Soot and graphite – give the solution a certain color.
• Liquid soap and dishwashing detergent – the finishing material acquires increased plasticity. These components are added to the composition immediately after water, usually 50-100 milliliters is enough. If you add more product, soap bubbles will make it difficult to work with the mixture and the strength will decrease.

Manufacturers

The market for building materials today provides a sizable assortment of different powders and mixtures for a range of applications. Selecting goods from reputable producers who ensure premium parts and technologically advanced manufacturing is worthwhile.

"Monolith"

A sizable producer with a plant in Kirov that makes and markets cement-sand mixes. The selection is extensive and includes dependable, premium M150 brand compositions that work well for both indoor and outdoor masonry, joint sealing, and plastering.

Additionally, trustworthy M300 brand compositions are available for purchase, which are important for creating high-strength concrete constructions.

Knauf

A well-known company offering several lines of premium cement and plaster mixes to the market (Sivener, Adhesive, Grunband, Unterputz). Excellent thermal insulation qualities are present in every product. appropriate for a wide variety of finishing jobs, both internal and external. Components have been added to the majority of the manufacturer’s mixtures in order to strengthen the advantageous qualities.

"Real"

The company sells well-liked products and offers premium cement mixes in grades M75, M150, M100, and M200. You can select what you need for finishing and repair work based on the range. The majority of dry mixes have additional ingredients added to them to make them more resistant to frost, which increases their usability and enables indoor and outdoor use.

Dauer

A German company that sells reasonably priced, high-quality cement-sand mortar for laying bricks and blocks, pouring screeds, and finishing indoor walls and facades.

The manufacturer’s dry mixes are highly well-liked because of their low consumption and reasonable price, which generally enable a considerable reduction in the cost of completing the task.

"BaltPiterStroy"

A sizable Russian business that provides the market with cement-sand mortars of any grade. In addition, additional components such as sand, gravel, crushed stone, rubble, bags of cement, and different reagents (like anti-icing) are included in the products.

"StroyServis-Novablock"

The cement-sand compositions made by the manufacturer were previously sold under the "Plita Milks" brand. The product line also includes a high-strength M300 brand sand and gravel mixture in addition to dry mixes. Since every composition is created on a large industrial scale using state-of-the-art factory equipment, it is all of very high quality.

"Adamant SPB"

The plant provides a wide variety of products, including high-quality concrete, reinforced concrete products, sand, cement, and crushed stone. There are several brands that represent CPS; the M100 and M400 are two of the lines.

Characteristic	Description
Density	Cement-sand mortar typically has a density of about 1800-2000 kg/m³, depending on the mix ratio and water content.
Weight	The weight of the mortar varies with its density and volume. For example, a cubic meter of mortar weighs around 1800-2000 kg.
Proportions	The standard mix ratio for cement-sand mortar is 1 part cement to 3 parts sand by volume. Adjustments can be made based on specific requirements.
Brands	Cement-sand mortar can be prepared using various brands of cement, such as Portland cement, which are readily available in the market.
Preparation	To prepare the mortar, mix the cement and sand thoroughly, then add water gradually while stirring until the desired consistency is achieved.
Composition	The primary components of cement-sand mortar are cement, sand, and water. Additives may be included to improve specific properties like workability and strength.

Comprehending the technical properties of cement-sand mortar is essential to attaining the best possible outcomes in construction endeavors. Understanding factors like density, weight, and proportions will help you make sure the mortar mix is appropriate for the particular requirements of your project.

The strengths and qualities of different brands and compositions vary, so it’s critical to select the appropriate mortar type for the job. Maintaining the integrity and durability of the structure being built requires careful preparation and mixing.

The longevity and performance of your work can be greatly improved by understanding how to mix and apply cement-sand mortar correctly, regardless of the size of the project or repair you are working on. Equipped with this understanding, you can tackle your upcoming task with assurance and proficiency.

Video on the topic

Mixing cement-sand mortar