Coloring brick mortar primarily involves adding pigment to the mortar mix during preparation.
Coloring Mortar Mix with Pigment
A traditional and effective way to color mortar involves incorporating coloured oxides directly into the dry mortar mix before adding water. This method ensures the color is integrated throughout the mortar.
The Traditional Method
As a traditional approach, this method often uses specific products designed for this purpose. One common method involves using a bag of Dingo 10kg Mortar Mix and a bag of coloured Oxide.
The process is typically carried out by:
- Starting with the dry mortar mix (like the Dingo 10kg Mortar Mix).
- Adding a small amount of the coloured Oxide to the dry mix.
- Thoroughly mixing the dry components together to distribute the pigment evenly.
- Adding water according to the mortar mix instructions.
- Mixing until the desired consistency is achieved.
Color Matching Process
Achieving the correct color often requires some trial and error, especially when trying to match existing mortar. The reference describes a practical way to do this:
- Mix a small test batch of mortar with the coloured oxide.
- Compare the wet mortar colour to the current colour of the mortar already in the wall or the desired colour standard.
- If the colour is too light, add a little more coloured oxide to the remaining dry mix (or prepare a new test batch with more oxide).
- If the colour is too dark, add more plain mortar mix to the dry components.
- Repeat this process, slowly adding more Oxide to the mortar mix, until you build up to a colour that is close to what you need.
- Note: The colour of the mortar will change slightly as it dries, so it is best to let a small test patch dry completely to confirm the final colour.
Key Considerations
- Consistency is Crucial: Once you achieve the desired colour ratio, carefully measure the amount of oxide added per bag of mortar mix for consistency across all batches.
- Oxide Type: Coloured oxides are available in various colours (like red, black, brown, yellow) and are specifically made for cement-based products.
- Mixing: Ensure the oxide is thoroughly mixed into the dry ingredients before adding water. Poor mixing can lead to streaking or uneven colour.
- Testing: Always perform test batches and allow them to dry to verify the final colour before mixing large quantities for the actual brickwork.
By following this method, you can effectively colour brick mortar to match existing brickwork or create a desired aesthetic for new construction.
