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I finally tried a different mortar mix on a chimney repair in Toledo last week.
The homeowner wanted a specific color match, so I swapped out my usual Type N for a pre-blended lime-rich mix. After about three hours of laying, the stuff started setting way faster than I expected, almost like it was grabbing the brick too hard. I had to rush the last few courses and the joints aren't as clean as I like. Has anyone else run into this with a high-lime mortar, and what's your trick for keeping the workability up?
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taylor.amy6mo ago
Yeah, those lime-heavy mixes can get grabby fast, especially if the bricks are thirsty or it's a warm day. I keep a spray bottle with clean water and just mist the mortar board and the bricks themselves a little as I go. Not enough to mess with the mix, just enough to slow down that suction. Also, mix smaller batches so you're not fighting the clock on the whole load.
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derek8686mo ago
Ever try a little vinegar in your water spray? Heard it can cut the lime grab without hurting the set.
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davis.dylan5mo ago
Totally agree with @derek868 on the vinegar trick. I tried it last summer on a chimney repoint and it was a game changer for the grab. Makes the whole process way less of a fight.
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