What is the primary function of mortar in bricklaying?

The primary function of mortar in bricklaying is to bind bricks together and provide structural integrity. Mortar serves as a critical adhesive that holds the bricks in place, allowing them to act as a cohesive unit. This bonding is essential for the stability and strength of the wall, ensuring that it can withstand various loads and external forces without collapsing or shifting. Additionally, mortar helps to distribute loads evenly across the bricks, enhancing the overall durability of the structure.

While mortar can contribute to aesthetics and may have some insulating properties, those aspects are secondary to its primary purpose of providing strength and stability to a construction project. The structural role of mortar is foundational, as it determines the longevity and safety of brickwork.