I just started making a raised bed with flagstones that are relatively smooth. After using nearly 160 lbs. of mortar, I find that more flagstones are not adhered together than are. I paid attention to directions, particularly not doing the job when night temps would go below 40 degrees. What can I do to make my project work? I am thoroughly frustrated, but really want this to work. Please help me figure this out!
How to make mortar adhere to smooth flagstones
mortar
Related Topic
- How to darken new mortar in a brick wall to match the older mortar
- Can unused mortar that freezes be used
- How to lift buckets of mortar to second floor
- Concrete – How to make concrete out of mortar
- Mix type N mortar mix and type M mortar mix
- Tile – How to remove cured tile mortar from subfloor
- Concrete – How to prepare vertical brick surface so Portland cement based mixtures (concrete, mortar) will adhere properly
Best Answer
Sorry but Tyler Durden is talking pure imaginative theory with no practical substance. Install drainage, which drains to where exactly. Install gravel and sand and put walls on it? Gravel, the roll around stuff? And sand the soft stuff?
Still sound like something you want under your walls? No.
Sure dry stone walling stands the test of time, provided there are zero, and I mean zero side thrust loads applied to the wall, ever. And definitely means no soil.
Mortar helps the wall absorb loads by simultaneously sticking the units together AND holding them apart. Probably the reason the mortar didn't stick (assuming you have proper/suitable mortar) is that your slabs were dusty/dry and the mortar was probably too dry.
To cure: Wash all dust off the slabs with a hosepipe and allow the surface water to soak in (the slab will still look dark/wet). Mix the mortar using enough water to make a smooth, creamy mix that doesn't crumble.
Lay slabs using the nice and creamy mortar and tap into place, remove excess that squeezes out with a trowel and once the mortar has hardened off a little, tool it off with whatever finish you want (half round, struck with a trowel etc). Joint thickness shouldn't be too thin, aim for 10mm, give or take a few mm's either way.
At the end of the days work, cover down with fleece (or old blankets) and a layer of polythene. Keep 'green' mortar covered thus for a week or so.
At least thats how we lay brick/block/concrete stuff in the UK/EU...