Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Wet the blocks first?

When the temperature is over 100 degrees, is it better to use mortar that is more wet or wet the cinder blocks first?

I'm a little confused. I was told that if you were laying a mortar bed for a tile job, vs. using cement boards, that you want to use a drier mix because it will be stronger. But then if you were pouring a patio, you need to mist it so it doesn't dry too fast.

Anyway, does the high temp just mean the mortar will just dry faster and everything will be fine? Or does this mean the mortar will dry too fast and will not bond well to the blocks?

Thanks.

Call RCP, Orco or Angelus Block. They are closer to the conditions and are more aware of the materials used in the block they produce. Usually, the block in your area are not CINDER block unless you are using some premium split architectural block made from volcanic cinders (brown or red). They are all first class block producers.

Pouring concrete is different than laying block or brick.

Mortar can dry out, but it begins to cure again when it gets moist.

It is always better to cure mortar and concrete slowly with moisture to acheive maximum properties. If you are not building a critical job (3+ stories or architectural), then it is not too critical. After the mortar joint has been tooled and sat for an hour or two, some moisture would help. Don't worry - any moisture in the next few years will help in future curing.

Dick