Differences between Mortar and Cement

Mortar and cement are both materials used in construction, but they serve different purposes.

Cement is a binding material made from a mixture of limestone, clay, and other materials. It is commonly used in the construction industry to make concrete, which is a mixture of cement, sand, and gravel. Cement is also used as a base for laying bricks, blocks, and tiles.

Mortar, on the other hand, is a mixture of cement, sand, and water used to bind bricks, stones, and other building materials together. It is a paste-like substance that is applied between bricks or stones to create a strong bond.

Here are some of the main differences between mortar and cement:

1. Composition: Cement is made from a mixture of limestone, clay, and other materials, while mortar is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water.
2. Use: Cement is used to make concrete and as a base for laying bricks, blocks, and tiles, while mortar is used to bind bricks, stones, and other building materials together.
3. Strength: Cement is much stronger than mortar because it is used as a base for larger structures. Mortar is designed to provide a strong bond between smaller building materials.
4. Consistency: Cement is a dry powder that is mixed with water to create a paste, while mortar is a paste-like substance that is applied directly to building materials.

Overall, while both cement and mortar are important materials in construction, they serve different purposes and have distinct properties. Cement is used as a base for larger structures and to make concrete, while mortar is used to bond smaller building materials together.