Red Seal Bricklayer Practice Exam

What are the two main types of mortar?

1. Sand mortar and water mortar

2. Clay mortar and cement mortar

3. Lime mortar and cement mortar

4. Concrete mortar and epoxy mortar

The correct answer is: Lime mortar and cement mortar

The correct answer identifies lime mortar and cement mortar as the two main types of mortar used in bricklaying and masonry work. Lime mortar, which consists of lime, sand, and water, has been used for centuries and offers flexibility and breathability to structures. This characteristic allows it to accommodate slight movements in buildings without cracking, making it particularly suitable for historical restoration and more flexible applications. Cement mortar, on the other hand, is a mixture of cement, sand, and water. Cement mortar provides strong bonding properties and is widely used in modern construction due to its ease of use and fast setting times. It is known for its superior strength compared to lime mortar, contributing to the durability and structural integrity of masonry work. These two types of mortar represent significant categories in masonry because they address different requirements and application methods in construction. The other choices involve materials that are either not primarily used as mortars or are combinations that do not classify under the traditional types of mortar utilized in bricklaying.