1. What is the Mortar Materials Calculator?

This calculator determines the quantities of cement and sand needed for brickwork mortar based on the volume of mortar required and the desired cement:sand ratio (typically 1:6 for brickwork).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these equations:

Where:

• Mortar volume — Total volume needed (typically 0.05–0.07 m³ per m² of brickwork)
• Ratio — Cement:sand ratio (e.g. 6 for 1:6 mix)
• 1.33 — Dry mortar factor accounting for voids
• 1440 — Cement density (kg/m³)
• 1600 — Sand density (kg/m³)

Explanation: The equations account for the proportional mix of materials and their densities to calculate weight from volume.

3. Importance of Accurate Material Calculation

Details: Proper material calculation ensures mortar strength, workability, and cost efficiency by preventing over- or under-ordering of materials.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mortar volume in cubic meters and desired cement:sand ratio (typically 6 for brickwork). All values must be positive (volume > 0, ratio ≥ 1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical mortar volume per m² of brickwork?
A: Typically 0.05–0.07 m³ per m² of brickwork, depending on joint thickness and brick size.

Q2: Why is the ratio important?
A: The ratio determines mortar strength and workability. 1:6 is common for brickwork, while 1:4 might be used for more demanding applications.

Q3: What if I need to calculate for a wall area?
A: First calculate wall area (m²), then multiply by 0.05–0.07 to estimate mortar volume before using this calculator.

Q4: Why the 1.33 multiplication factor?
A: This accounts for the dry volume of mortar being greater than the wet volume due to voids in the sand.

Q5: Can I use this for other mortar types?
A: Yes, but adjust the ratio accordingly (e.g., 1:4 for blockwork or 1:3 for pointing).