What are the types of mortar?

There are different types of mortar that are made using different proportions of cement, lime, sand and water. They have different compressive strengths based on a 28 day cure period and are used in different areas accordingly.

The different types of Mortar and their uses are.

• Type M Mortar – This is the highest strength mortar having a strength of 2500psi. It is majorly used in areas where high compressive mortar strength is required like high load bearing retaining walls.
• Type S Mortar – This is a medium strength mortar having strength of 1800 psi. It is used in cantilever walls, load bearing walls having normal to moderate loading.
• Type N Mortar – This is the most commonly used mortar having a compressive strength of 750 psi. It is an all-purpose mortar and is used for joining brick and stone masonry walls.
• Type O Mortar –This is a weak mortar having a low compressive strength of 350 psi. It is used in interior  non-load bearing walls and in repair work
• Type K Mortar -It has the least compressive strength and is used for restoration and preservation of historical projects. The mortar is so weak that it does not damage the historical stones.