The common differences people find difficult to understand are between mortar and cement. Even professionals are not clear about explaining the significant differences between mortar and cement.
In general, people define both materials as substances used in construction to harden the surface. Though the terms may sound the same, both have different uses and properties.
In this article, we will explain the key differences between cement and mortar, their materials, applications, and advantages.
Overview of Cement
Cement is a fine binding powder that is never been used alone. Instead it serve as a component of mortar, adhesives, or grout for landscaping and tiling jobs. It is made of shells, silica sand, limestone, and clay, which efficiently act as binding agents in both mortar and concrete.
As is well known, limestone is the most common ingredient, along with the following materials, which are combined with other ingredients like iron ore and then heated to high temperatures. Through this process, the clinker is obtained, which is ground into a fine powder called cement.
Overview of Mortar
Mortar is an adhesive material used with concrete blocks, brick, or stone. It is composed of ingredients like fine sand, limestone, and cement. Water is also an ingredient added to a mortar to activate the cement and let it harden.
It is not only used as a building material but also acts as a glue when holding cinder blocks, stone, bricks, or any other construction materials together. Mortar is available in a pre-mixed form, which is as strong as concrete.
Key Differences of Cement and Mortar
The significant differences between cement and mortar are explained in a tabular format. Read below to understand them:
| Features | Cement | Mortar |
| Composition and Materials Used | Cement is composed of ingredients like silica sand, shells, limestone, and clay. | A mortar is a mixture of sand and cement, along with some other additional ingredients that depend upon the type. |
| Strength and Durability | Higher strength and durability can be achieved through a proper curing process. It makes them potentially be used in load-bearing structures like concrete slabs and foundations. | The strength and durability of mortar is not stronger than cement. However, it depends upon the proportion of ingredients like sand and cement used. On the other hand, mortar is extremely flexible, allowing it to build strong bonds with bricks, tiles, and stones. |
| Applications and Usage | Cement is used in various construction applications such as masonry work, concrete, and plastering. | It is primarily used in rendering, masonry work, and plastering. |
| Setting and Curing Time | Cement sets quickly, however, giving a proper curing time provides extreme strength and durability to the construction. | Setting time of mortar is influenced by two potential factors: temperature and water-cement ratio. Similar to cement, a proper curing helps achieve the desired strength. |
| Water-retention | Cement has average retention properties, however, it can be adjusted using admixtures. | Mortar has excellent water-retention properties, especially while lime is added as an ingredient. |
Advantages of Using Cement and Mortar
Cement
- Cement offers exceptional compressive strength that makes it able to withstand heavy loads and pressures caused on the structures.
- A primary benefit of using cement is molded into required forms and shapes. It can be used in various applications from simple to complex architectural structures.
- Required properties like water resistant, strength or fire resistance can be achieved by adjusting the additives accordingly.
- Cement is budget-friendly as it doesn’t need extra cost on repair and maintenance.
- Cement can be recycled and reused, which reduces waste and conserves resources.
Mortar
- Mortar is less expensive, which is easy to afford and builds an unbreakable bond between masonry units.
- Mortar contains excellent thermal insulation properties, which helps regulate a comfortable indoor environment.
- Mortar can act as a barrier against moisture penetration, preventing structure damage.
- It is easy to apply and can be shaped and molded as per the surface requirements.
Disadvantages of Using Cement and Mortar
Cement
- The production of cement contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide.
- Cement-based materials may tend to shrink while they are drying and curing, which causes cracks and other potential structural issues.
- Cement may seem cost-effective, but the initial cost of materials and the manufacturing process is literally costlier.
Mortar
- Mortar is not as strong as cement, which has less compressive strength and is not so suitable for high load-bearing structures.
- It absorbs water and causes potential issues such as freeze-thaw damages, especially in cold climates.
- The durability of mortar is influenced by certain factors, such as exposure to harsh climatic conditions, the quality of materials, and proper mixing.
- It requires periodic maintenance to address issues like erosion or cracking in prior.
- The production of mortar needs to take into account certain environmental concerns like energy consumption and resource extraction.
Choosing Between Cement and Mortar in Construction
The choice between cement and mortar is based on the specific requirements of desired properties and construction project requirements. However, with these below factors, you can choose the appropriate option:
Structural Integrity: If structural integrity plays a major role in your construction, then cement plays a prominent role in it. They offer greater strength and durability to the building.
Masonry Work: Mortar is significant for building masonry units to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance and desired durability.
Budget and Time: The setting time and curing requirements may greatly influence the project timelines. Based on your project deadline and budget range, you can use cement or mortar that suits your project.
Maintenance: Repairing and maintaining the structure is the biggest concern. Evaluate the potential requirements of your project to choose either cement or mortar that fits more efficiently.
Final Lines
Both cement and mortar are widely used materials in construction. By carefully evaluating these significant things, you can choose the appropriate one. Hopefully, you are clear about its application, advantages, and disadvantages in detail. It will help you to go with the most suitable option.