Compared my mortar mix ratios side by side and found the sweet spot

I ran two test walls last week using a 4:1 sand to cement mix on one and a 3:1 on the other to see which held up better after a rain. The 3:1 came out way stronger with almost no crumbling at the joints, but it was a pain to work with because it set too fast. Has anyone else tried different ratios on a job site and settled on one that balances strength and workability?

3 comments

3 Comments

margaretk894m ago

@skyler_white95 is right, 3:1 with retarder is the sweet spot.

spencer66410h ago

Throw a handful of lime in the 3-1 mix, it'll slow the set down and make it butter smooth to work with without sacrificing strength.

skyler_white9511h ago

3:1 is the way to go. Just add a retarder next time.