Views: 3 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-05-05 Origin: Site
With the continuous advancement of technology, various types of mortar have emerged in the market. Mortar is no longer limited to traditional cement mortar; there are now specialized materials such as crack-resistant mortar and plastering mortar, each with unique functions. So, what are the differences between crack-resistant mortar and ordinary cement mortar?
Both crack-resistant mortar and cement mortar fall under the category of premixed mortar.
-Crack-resistant mortar is primarily a polymer-modified cement-based anti-crack plastering mortar used for wall surfaces and the protective coating of insulation systems.
-Cement mortar is used for coating concrete or cement substrates, providing base protection and surface leveling.
Crack-resistant mortar: Suitable for interior and exterior walls, insulation systems, bricklaying, and masonry construction.
Cement mortar: Used for leveling floors and walls, filling gaps, and coating structural components or base materials.
-Crack-resistant mortar: Applied in thin layers, resulting in a smooth, high-strength surface that resists cracking.
Cement mortar: Applied in thicker layers, which may crack if the environment is too hot or dry during curing.
- The unit price of crack-resistant mortar is higher, but its overall cost-effectiveness is better due to lower usage requirements compared to cement mortar.
Crack-resistant mortar: Has strong anti-shrinkage properties, minimizing cracks under normal temperatures.
Cement mortar: Prone to shrinkage and cracking, especially when drying too quickly.
Crack-resistant mortar: Applied at 3–5 mm thickness.
Cement mortar: Applied at 5–12 mm thickness.
Crack-resistant mortar: Maintains strong adhesion over time without deformation.
Cement mortar: Initially strong but may degrade, leading to cracks and hollowing.
- Clean the substrate (concrete, masonry, etc.) from debris.
- Remove protrusions and dust, then moisten the surface slightly.
- Ensure the surrounding floor is clean to avoid contamination.
- Apply a bonding agent or roughen smooth surfaces.
- For joints between concrete and blocks, apply a 3–4 mm mortar layer, embed fiberglass mesh, and then apply the surface mortar.
- Use 20×20 mm mortar markers to control thickness (usually matching the insulation layer).
- Space control points no more than 1.5 meters apart.
- Mix the mortar with water to a paste-like consistency.
- Apply the first layer (≤1.5 cm thick), then compact and level.
- After initial setting, embed mesh and apply the second layer (≤2 cm thick).
- Leave a rough surface between layers for better adhesion.
- Avoid overworking the same area to prevent bubbling.
- Ensure the thickness meets design requirements.
- Check for strong adhesion, avoiding delamination, hollowing, or cracks.
Crack-resistant mortar offers superior durability, crack resistance, and bonding strength compared to ordinary cement mortar. While it has a higher initial cost, its long-term performance and reduced material usage make it a cost-effective choice for modern construction. Proper application techniques are crucial to maximize its benefits.
