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?

3 comments

3 Comments

taylor.amy1mo 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.

derek86829d ago

Ever try a little vinegar in your water spray? Heard it can cut the lime grab without hurting the set.

davis.dylan5d 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.