MORTAR VS CONCRETE: DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MORTAR AND CONCRETE

Mortar vs Concrete: Understanding the Key Differences

When it comes to construction materials, mortar and concrete are two fundamental components that play distinct roles in building structures. While they might seem similar at first glance, mortar and concrete serve different purposes and possess unique characteristics that make them essential in their respective applications. Let’s delve into the differences between mortar and concrete to gain a comprehensive understanding of their roles in construction.

Mortar: Binding Substance for Masonry

Mortar is a mixture primarily used to bind various masonry units, such as bricks, stones, and concrete blocks, together to create a cohesive structure. It serves as the glue that holds these units in place and provides structural integrity to walls, arches, and other brickwork or stonework constructions. Mortar consists of three main ingredients: cementitious material, sand, and water.

Composition and Characteristics of Mortar:

1. Cementitious Material: The cementitious material in mortar is usually Portland cement, which acts as the binder. It hardens over time through a process called hydration, forming a strong bond between the masonry units.
2. Sand: Sand is mixed with the cement to add bulk, improve workability, and control the consistency of the mortar. The particle size and type of sand used influence the mortar’s properties.
3. Water: Water is necessary for the hydration of the cement, allowing it to form a chemical bond with the sand and masonry units. The right amount of water is crucial to achieve the desired strength and consistency.

Applications of Mortar:

Mortar finds application in various construction tasks, such as:

• Bricklaying: Mortar is used to bond bricks together and create walls, partitions, and facades.
• Stone Masonry: Mortar holds natural or manufactured stones in place to build structures like retaining walls and decorative facades. 
• Plastering: Mortar is employed as a plastering material to create smooth finishes on walls and ceilings.
• Pointing: Mortar is used for pointing, which involves filling the gaps between bricks or stones with fresh mortar to enhance the appearance and weather resistance of the structure.  

Concrete: A Versatile Structural Material

Concrete, on the other hand, is a composite material that serves as a foundation for a wide range of construction projects. It is composed of aggregates (such as crushed stone, gravel, sand), cement, and water. Unlike mortar, concrete is not just a binding agent; it possesses the strength and durability needed for load-bearing structures.

Composition and Characteristics of Concrete:

1. Aggregates: Aggregates provide bulk to concrete and contribute to its compressive strength. They are carefully selected and graded to achieve the desired concrete properties.  
2. Cement: Similar to mortar, concrete uses cement as a binder. However, concrete contains a higher proportion of aggregates, making it substantially stronger.
3. Water: Water is added to facilitate the hydration process of cement and to create a workable mixture. The water-to-cement ratio affects the concrete’s strength and durability.

Applications of Concrete:

Concrete is a versatile material used in a variety of construction applications, including:

• Foundations: Concrete provides a stable and load-bearing foundation for buildings, bridges, and other structures.
• Structural Elements: Beams, columns, slabs, and walls made of concrete form the skeleton of most modern buildings.
• Roads and Pavements: Durable concrete is used for constructing roads, highways, and sidewalks due to its ability to withstand heavy traffic loads.
• Infrastructure Projects: Concrete plays a vital role in infrastructure projects such as dams, tunnels, and water treatment facilities.

In Conclusion

While mortar and concrete share certain ingredients, they serve distinct purposes in construction. Mortar acts as a binding agent to hold masonry units together, whereas concrete serves as a structural material capable of withstanding significant loads. Understanding the differences between mortar and concrete is crucial for ensuring the proper use of these materials in building safe and durable structures. Whether it’s the intricate craftsmanship of bricklaying or the robust construction of a skyscraper, mortar and concrete are the building blocks upon which our modern world stands.