Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Mortar for low temp & high humidity
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Hudzo
04-03-05, 10:42 AM
I'm building a wine cellar with actively regulated temperature and humidity (55° F and 70% rel humidity). On the inside-facing walls, I'd like to put a brick veneer for thermal mass and aesthetics. My question is, is there a particular mortar that is well-suited to this unique(?) situation (i.e. no exposure to elements, low temp & high humidity)?
Thanks!
Thanks!
Concretemasonry
04-03-05, 09:02 PM
This is not exposure for mortar considering the uniform termeratures you will be maintaining. The moisture is not a problem, since mortar needs moisture to cure properly. Your mortar will last longer than your home.
Since you have little or no load except for the weight of the 8 to 10 foot high wall, strength is not an issue. Follow the golden rule of using as weak a mortar as possible. I would us a Type S or N. Just tell the mason what type you want. I prefer a portland and lime combination, but a masonry cement mortar is OK. Both can be purchased pre-blended in most larger areas.
You have properly recognized the benefits of the mass, which go for both temperature and humidity.
Dick
Since you have little or no load except for the weight of the 8 to 10 foot high wall, strength is not an issue. Follow the golden rule of using as weak a mortar as possible. I would us a Type S or N. Just tell the mason what type you want. I prefer a portland and lime combination, but a masonry cement mortar is OK. Both can be purchased pre-blended in most larger areas.
You have properly recognized the benefits of the mass, which go for both temperature and humidity.
Dick
Hudzo
04-03-05, 09:12 PM
Thanks, Dick!
One follow-up question: why didn't you recommend type O? I actually thought that was the answer I'd get when I posted the question. You hit it on the head when you said there'd be no strenght requirements (other than the weight of the wall itself), but isn't that what type O is for: interior and/or non-load-bearing projects?
Thanks again!
-Loren
One follow-up question: why didn't you recommend type O? I actually thought that was the answer I'd get when I posted the question. You hit it on the head when you said there'd be no strenght requirements (other than the weight of the wall itself), but isn't that what type O is for: interior and/or non-load-bearing projects?
Thanks again!
-Loren