Thermalite Lightweight Blocks - absorbency

[tnarg999]

When laying thermalite blocks, are you supposed to soak them in water, or apply a primer before setting into a mortar bd? The reason I ask is that they appear to absorb a lot of moisture, and I didn't want the mortar drying out too quickly compromising the bond.

Thanks

 

[iaink]

i have just built my inner walls of my extension with these but mixing a good batch of mortar you should be ok. but yes they do absorb a lot of water building them on a hot day they would be better to build when wet but are ok at this time of year

 

[noseall]

the compo'/pug/mortar, needs to be nice and sloppy, with just enough body to be able to 'roll' on the spot board, with the trowel.