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Properties Of Brick And Mortar

These publications provide information on the physical properties of bricks and mortar as building materials.

  • Use of Traditional Lime Mortars in Modern Brickwork

    Also known as Natural Lime Mortars, mortars of this type are made with sand and use lime as a binder. They should not be confused with sand, lime and Portland cement mortars, regardless of the relative proportions of the lime and Portland cement.

    There are two basic types of lime for traditional lime mortars - those that set and harden by the reaction with air and those that do so by reaction with water (non-hydraulic and hydraulic limes respectively). Of the latter type there are sub-varieties.

    » Click here to download Use of Traditional Lime Mortars in Modern Brickwork.

  • Observations on the Use of Reclaimed Clay Bricks

    The appeal of using reclaimed bricks is that they may have developed a particular character, being fully matured and weathered. Depending on the situation it may be more "environmentally friendly" to use a reclaimed brick.

    Currently reclaimed bricks have a certain cachet, they are less widely available, more expensive and have a distinctive appearance. The following notes raise points to consider when comparing reclaimed bricks with new, and describe the process of reclaiming bricks.

    » Click here to download Observations on the Use of Reclaimed Clay Bricks .

  • A Basic Guide to Brickwork Mortars

    For successful brickwork it is important to select the appropriate mortar to suit the particular application, but experience indicates that many specifiers have a limited understanding of these materials.

    This article covers the basic facts regarding the properties and performance of the various mortars used in contemporary construction.

    » Click here to download A Basic Guide to Brickwork Mortars.

  • Bricks: Notes on their Properties

    Provides an overview to the various terms used within the industry and their definitions.

    » Click here to download Bricks: Notes on their Properties.

Note: The contents and references of these publications may not have been updated to reflect the recommendations of the latest appropriate British and European Standards. Please ensure you use these publications alongside the latest standards.