Explain what mortar is and name two of it's uses
Mortar is a pasty substance that hardens when it dries. It is typically composed of a mixture of cement, sand, and water. Mortar is commonly used in construction and masonry work to hold together building blocks or bricks, providing structural integrity to walls and other structures.
Two of the main uses of mortar are:
1. Brickwork: Mortar is extensively used in bricklaying and masonry work to bond bricks or other types of building blocks together. It fills the gaps between the blocks, providing adhesion and support to the structure. The choice of the right type of mortar depends on the specific requirements of the project, such as load-bearing capacity, weather resistance, or aesthetic preferences.
2. Tiling: Mortar is also used in tile installations, such as for laying ceramic or stone tiles on floors, walls, or countertops. Tile mortar creates a strong bond between the tiles and the substrate, ensuring stability and preventing movement or shifting of the tiles over time.
Note: Mortar has various other applications as well, including plastering walls, repairing cracks or gaps in masonry structures, or even as a decorative element for artistic purposes.