"Jeffrey J. Kosowsky" wrote in message
...
"Brikp" writes:
Just some "Mortar Mix" will do fine. Concrete uses stone aggregate for
strength, like in a sidewalk. Mortar is used for pointing between stone
and
bricks and for bricklaying. Cement is the binder used in both Concrete
and
Mortar Mix.
For everyone who doesn't know (Not a dig to the OP or anyone else
specifically)
Concrete is not cement, cement is not concrete, mortar is not concrete,
concrete is not mortar, mortar is not cement, cement is not mortar
Perhaps some silly questions but I am new to this stuff...
1. Will any "Mortar Mix" work or are there different types?
Greetings,
1a. Yes, just about any mortar mix will work (for your purpose).
1b. Yes, there are different types-- but your applicatoin is not very
demanding.
If I were in your shoes I would purchase this product:
http://www.lowes.com/lkn?action=prod...0391-286-14115
QuikreteŽ 60 Lb. Mortar Mix
Item #: 10391
Model: 14115
$2.93 == It's the lowest cost.
2. Is there a pre-mix or is it better to mix up a dry batch?
You can purchase pre-mix products but:
a) they might not be "stiff" enough (see below).
b) they will cost more than $3
c) the product above you "just add water and stir"
3. Can I fill the whole hole (maybe 6 inch deep by 2 inches wide round
cylinder) at once or do you need to apply in layers?
don't apply layers -- it isn't necessary
4. Does it shrink or expand when it dries? (and if it does, how do you
keep it relatively level with the surrounding area?)
Yes, it shrinks!!! To control shrinkage and help keep the mortar level with
the surrounding area you need to use a very "stiff" (dry) mixture. Do not
mix it according to directions (into the "plastic" state). Instead, make
the mix as dry as possible, but still wet enough that it doesn't just fall
out of the void. You can use a board to pack in the mortar in tightly and
level it. If you keep it dry you will have no issues keeping it level with
the surrounding area. If you make it too wet you will run into problems.
If you insist on making the mortar into a plastic state you will need a way
to keep a board pressed up against the void until the mortar hardens to keep
it level.
Hope this helps,
William
P