2torial #0675:
Learn2 Mix Cement (continued)

Know your materials

Here are your choices for cement products and materials:

Pre-mixed concrete and mortar. You'll probably want to go with these, since the bags already contain all the necessary ingredients except water, so all you have to do is mix the two together. Be sure you buy the right material for the project, though--concrete mix doesn't work as mortar, and vice versa.

Note: If you're buying mortar mix specifically for brick, the bags typically come in different strengths, labeled as Type F (the strongest), M, or N. Ask the retailer what he or she would recommend for your particular project.

Portland cement. This is the straight cement ingredient, used if you want to make your own concrete or mortar from scratch. It's cheaper than the pre-mixed packages, and it creates more material in the end, but you have to add in the extra expense and work of buying the necessary sand and aggregate and mixing it in. But if your project is somewhat large (and you still want to mix it by hand) you'll definitely save on costs.

Masonry sand and aggregate. You'll need these materials only if you're mixing your own mortar (for which you'll just need sand) or concrete with Portland cement. Most building or garden supply stores will deliver them for you. Both are usually sold by the cubic yard (or cubic meter). Be sure you buy aggregate that's no larger than 1/2- to 3/4-inch in diameter (1 to 2 centimeters) so you can shovel and mix it easily.

Lime. This is the ingredient that gives mortar its extra holding ability. Portland cement and mortar mix already have lime in them, but if you need your mortar to be particularly sticky (such as for plastering walls or attaching the backs of stone to a vertical surface) you might want an extra bag of lime. It should be available at a building supply store. Check to see if the retailer recommends extra lime for your project, and follow the measurement directions carefully for adding it to your mix.