Block Mortar Mix ?

[iDIY]

Hi Guys,

Well I guess my first post on the forum may as well be a basic one

Im going to be building a replacement garage in dense concrete block, on both inner and outer leaf with 100mm cavity containing insulation.

The more google searches I do the more contradictions I read, so I figured I would ask in a Trade Talk forum.

I have read that my mortar should be anything from;
6 building sand
1 cement
1 lime
1 plasticiser

right through to;
3 sharp sand
1 cement
no lime
no plasticiser

As a novice bricklayer, i will be working at a slower pace than a good bricky, and i will be all fingers and thumbs at the outset when it comes to handling the mortar on the trowel. So maybe that will impact upon any responses?

All advice gratefully received.

Thanks.

 

[nickjb]

4 or 5 building sand, 1 cement, splash of plasticiser. Make sure it is mixed well enough for the plasticiser to do its job. I found it was easier to lay if the blocks where a little damp. Not dripping wet but not bone dry. Also its much easier with fresh mortar so mix in small batches as you will be slow. Finally if you can find some medium dense blocks are easier to work with. Just a little bit lighter for a slightly higher cost, same strength