If you are planning for construction, then choosing the right binding material is important. The two common options influencing the construction sector are type S mortar and Portland cement. Both are essential components in the industry but contain different properties and serve distinct purposes.
Understanding the differences may guide you to choose the appropriate option. In this article, you’ll learn the key differences, pros, and cons of both components in detail. Continue your reading to know more about them:
What is Type S Mortar?
Type S mortar is a type of mortar specifically designed for masonry construction. It typically contains one part hydrated lime, two parts Portland cement, and nine parts sand. They are widely used in various masonry applications. Due to its balanced properties, Type S mortar is a primary choice for laying stones, blocks, or bricks.
It has an excellent compressive strength of around 12.5 MPa(1,800 psi). They are strong enough to withstand different environmental factors such as seismic conditions, harsh wind, and high soil pressure.
What is Portland Cement?
One of the common types of cement is made by heating clay and limestone to around 1350 to 1400 degrees Celsius. Portland cement acts as a key ingredient in making plaster, concrete, mortar, and stucco.
It is a kind of hydraulic cement available in the form of finely ground powder. It provides excellent strength and durability to the structures. Portland cement is a primary ingredient in concrete and helps build roads, buildings, bridges, and more.
Difference Between Type S Mortar and Portland Cement
Understanding the key differences helps you choose the right option. Both the components are differentiated in a tabular format below:
Features | Type S Mortar | Portland Cement |
Strength | Type S Mortar offers moderate strength, making it suitable for various commercial and residential masonry projects like stonework, bricklaying, and blockwork. | Due to its high strength, Portland cement is used in heavy-duty construction such as slabs, foundations, beams and more large-scale infrastructure. |
Durability | Type S mortar is known for its good durability, maintaining a strong and long-lasting bond between masonry units. Additionally, it can withstand various environmental factors. | It offers excellent durability to the structures that makes them strong and resistant to chemicals and exterior elements over time. |
Composition | It is a pre-mixed blend specifically designed for masonry applications, containing Portland cement, sand, and hydrated lime. | Portland cement is a hydraulic cement, composed of alumina, lime, iron oxide, gypsum, and silica. |
Properties | Type S Mortar is easy to apply and finish, establishing a balanced combination of water retention, strength, and workability. | Portland cement is possessed with excellent strength, versatility, and water-resistance properties, which makes it widely used in various construction applications. |
Applications | It is primarily designed for masonry construction for both residential and commercial buildings, including stonework, bricklaying, and blockwork. | Portland cement can be found in numerous construction projects, most commonly in stucco and industrial applications, concrete production, and mortar mixing. |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Type S Mortar
Advantages:
Good workability: Easy to spread and apply on surfaces that potentially reduce labour costs.
Pre-mixed: It is convenient and time-saving, eliminating the stress of the on-site mixing process.
Good bonding properties: It establishes a strong and secure bond with masonry units, leading to a stable and durable structure.
Disadvantages
Average Strength: It offers moderate strength and can’t be used in high-load-bearing structures.
Shrinkage: It may lead to shrinkage and cracking, upon drying. However, proper maintenance can save you from unexpected expenses.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Portland Cement
Advantages
Versatility: Portland cement can be used in various applications such as mortar, stucco, and concrete.
Strength: Offers exceptional strength to the construction, making it well-suited for beams, foundations, and slabs.
Easy Accessibility: This product is widely available; builders can easily buy it from nearby suppliers.
Disadvantages
Instant Mixing: On-site mixing requires additional labor involvement, which makes the process more expensive than pre-mixed mortar.
Carbon Footprint: The manufacturing process of this cement contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, especially CO2.
Choosing Between Type S Mortar and Portland Cement
The selection of mortar or cement is a common decision in construction. By considering certain significant factors, builders can make an informed choice. Here are some major considerations:
Project Requirements: Both the components have different properties and are used for various purposes. Based on your material compatibility, you can choose mortar or cement to ensure proper bonding and durability.
Environmental Conditions: The local climatic condition is a primary factor to consider. The areas that are highly susceptible to extreme humidity, temperature, or exposure to harsh weather conditions will typically affect the performance of mortar or cement. Choose the one that best suits your region’s climate.
Appearance: The mortar and cement offer different aesthetic appeals to the structures. Based on the desired textures and finishes, you can go with either mortar or cement. Some mortars can provide a rustic and creative look to the buildings, while others offer a smooth finish. The colour option influences the overall aesthetics of the structure. Being aware of these features will help you choose the right one.
Load-bearing Capacity: Estimate how much weight the structure needs to support. This is important to consider before choosing mortar or cement. If you are dealing with foundations, walls, or any other critical elements, the structure must need enough compressive strength to hold the expected loads, even if they are subjected to movement or stress.
In a Word
Both Type S mortar and Portland cement are significant components in the construction industry. Understanding their differences, pros, and cons can help you choose the right option for your structure. An appropriate choice ensures the building will be strong and durable without causing any damage like shrinkage or cracking. Hopefully, this article clearly explains these differences and helps you become aware of the critical points. It surely assists you in choosing the best one that fits your project requirements and budget.