Mortar and concrete are two materials commonly used in the construction industry. Both of them are composed of cement, sand, and water, but the proportions of each ingredient vary, giving each material its unique characteristics and applications. In this article, we will discuss the differences between mortar and concrete, their properties, and their uses.

Mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and water. It is commonly used as a bonding material between bricks, stones, or other masonry units. Mortar is a relatively weak material with a compressive strength ranging from 2.5 to 10 N/mm2. It is not designed to bear heavy loads, but rather to hold masonry units together and to provide a smooth surface for finishing.

The proportions of cement, sand, and water in mortar depend on the application and the desired properties. For example, a common mix for laying bricks is 1 part cement to 6 parts sand, while a mix for rendering walls is 1 part cement to 3 parts sand. Adding lime to the mix can improve the workability, durability, and water resistance of the mortar.

Concrete, on the other hand, is a mixture of cement, sand, water, and aggregates, such as gravel or crushed stone. It is a strong and durable material with a compressive strength ranging from 15 to 80 N/mm2, depending on the mix proportions and the quality of the ingredients. Concrete is used for a wide range of applications, such as foundations, floors, walls, beams, columns, and bridges.

The proportions of cement, sand, water, and aggregates in concrete depend on the application and the desired strength and durability. A common mix for general construction is 1 part cement to 2 parts sand to 3 parts aggregates to 0.5 parts water, while a mix for reinforced concrete is 1 part cement to 1.5 parts sand to 3 parts aggregates to 0.5 parts water. Adding admixtures, such as plasticizers, accelerators, or air-entraining agents, can improve the workability, strength, and durability of the concrete.

One of the main differences between mortar and concrete is their strength. Concrete is much stronger than mortar, which makes it suitable for bearing heavy loads and resisting compressive forces. Mortar, on the other hand, is weaker and more flexible, which allows it to absorb some of the stresses that masonry units experience due to temperature changes, moisture expansion, or structural movement.

Another difference is their workability. Mortar is easier to work with than concrete, as it has a lower viscosity and can be applied with a trowel or a pointing tool. Mortar also sets more slowly than concrete, which gives the mason more time to adjust the position of the masonry units before the mortar hardens. Concrete, on the other hand, is more difficult to work with, as it has a higher viscosity and requires specialized tools, such as concrete pumps or vibrators, to be placed and compacted properly. Concrete also sets faster than mortar, which limits the time available for adjustments.

Mortar and concrete also differ in their appearance. Mortar is usually lighter in color than concrete, as it contains less cement and more sand. Mortar can also be colored with pigments or stains to match the color of the masonry units or to create decorative effects. Concrete, on the other hand, is usually gray or off-white, but can also be colored with pigments or stains to achieve a specific look.

In terms of cost, mortar is generally cheaper than concrete, as it requires less cement and aggregates. However, the cost of labor can vary depending on the complexity and size of the project, as well as the availability of skilled masons or concrete workers.