Masonry Magazine September 2008 Page. 33
CHOOSING A MORTAR COLOR
Choosing a mortar color to compliment the wide range of colors found in clay brick, colored block and stone will enhance the appeal of a masonry structure. Brick, colored block and stone contain thousands of hues that change throughout the day as the reflection of light is altered by brightness and angle. The same is true with colored mortar. Mortar color should be utilized as a design tool to create a different look, depending upon the color shade selected. Remember, mortar joints make up 18 percent to 20 percent of the wall surface. Using colored mortar will dramatically change the overall appearance of the structure.
Most people are not aware of the normal variations in regular uncolored mortar. When color is added to the equation, expectations become greater. The first step toward achieving a consistent mortar color is using the same ingredients and procedures throughout the job. The appearance of the mortar color joint is impacted by many factors other than the addition of iron oxide pigments to the mix. Variations in cement, sand, water-to-cement ratio, rate of hydration, environmental conditions, tooling of the mortar joints, and cleaning procedures can change the appearance of the colored mortar.
Cement shade
MASONRY AND PORTLAND CEMENT are produced with different manufacturing processes offering multiple shades from light gray to dark gray color tones. The cement color shade will have a pronounced direct effect toward the mortar color. Adding color to light gray cements will produce brighter and cleaner color shades. Conversely, utilizing dark gray cement will limit your ability to produce light color shades, such as buff or pink. If a light pastel color is specified, more than likely white cernent must be used to obtain the desired mortar color. In the recent past, there has been tight cement production levels with increased demand for cement, which has created a shift toward darker shades of cement. To maintain uniformity throughout the job, visual inspections of each cement delivery should be compared against future shipments. In addition, stay with the same cement manufacturer throughout the job. The use of the lightest shade of gray Portland or masonry cement will enhance the vibrancy of the finished mortar color.
FERO Masonry Systems
FERO Masonry Systems - Tested and Proven for all types of veneer and backup!
FERO's engineered masonry connectors, ties and angle supports set the industry standard for performance, reliability and quality. They allow you to improve the structural performance and strength of your wall system while lowering your cost!
All systems are engineered to allow adjustment to accommodate for construction tolerances and are designed to optionally secure the insulation permanently against the backup wall.
780.455.5098
Engineered Masonry Connectors and Accessories
www.ferocorp.com
To obtain a FREE set of "State-of-the-Art Masonry Details," contact: engineering@ferocorp.com
SCAFFOLD PLANK
SCAFFOLD PLANK LAMINATED OR SOLID SAWN
When it comes to jobsite safety, your workers deserve the best!
•Microllam
Master Plank
•DI-65 Pine
*OSHA Recognized
•Third Party
Inspection
Proof Tested &
Stamped
Readily Available
800 365 9663
586 294 9663
Roseville, MI USA
www.mccauseylumber.com