Concrete and mortar are two essential materials used in the construction industry for a variety of purposes. While they share some similarities in their composition, the differences between concrete and mortar are significant and can have a significant impact on their use in construction.
Concrete
It is a mixture of cement, sand, water, and coarse aggregates (such as gravel or crushed stone) that is used to create a strong, durable, and versatile building material.
It is commonly used in applications where a solid foundation or structure is required, such as in the construction of buildings, bridges, roads, and other structures.
Mortar
is a mixture of cement, sand, and water that is used to bond masonry units, such as bricks, stones, and concrete blocks, together.
It is typically used in applications where a strong bond is required between the masonry units, such as in building walls, chimneys, and other structures.
While both concrete and mortar are made from similar ingredients, the main difference between them is the number of coarse aggregates used in the mix. Mortar is made with a higher proportion of fine sand and less coarse aggregates, whereas concrete typically contains more coarse aggregates.
This gives concrete its characteristic strength and durability, making it a preferred material for many construction projects.
Differences between Concrete and Mortar
Concrete and mortar are both building materials made from cement, sand, and water, but they differ in their composition, strength, and intended use.
Composition: Concrete typically contains a higher proportion of coarse aggregates, such as gravel or crushed stone, while mortar contains mostly fine sand.
Strength: Concrete is a stronger material than mortar due to the presence of coarse aggregates, which add to its compressive strength. Mortar is weaker and more brittle, designed to bond masonry units together rather than provide structural support.
Mix ratio: The mix ratio of concrete is usually higher in cement content compared to mortar. A typical mix for concrete is 1:2:3 (cement:sand: aggregate) while a typical mortar mix ratio is 1:4 (cement: sand).
Application method: Concrete is often poured into molds or forms and allowed to harden. Mortar is applied in thin layers using a trowel and is used to bond masonry units together.
Reinforcement: Concrete can be reinforced with steel bars or mesh to provide additional strength and durability. Mortar does not typically contain a reinforcement.
Setting time: Concrete generally takes longer to set and cure than mortar. This is due to the larger amount of cement in concrete and the presence of coarse aggregates, which can slow down the curing process.
Strength testing: Concrete is typically tested for compressive strength and tensile strength using specialized testing methods. Mortar is not generally subjected to these types of strength tests.
Color options: Concrete and mortar both are grey in color.
Intended use: Concrete is typically used in applications where a strong and durable material is required, such as building foundations, walls, and bridges. Mortar is used primarily as a bonding agent between masonry units, such as bricks, blocks, and stones.
Consistency: Concrete is a thicker mixture than mortar, with a lower water-to-cement ratio. This makes it easier to pour and shape into forms, allowing it to be used in a variety of shapes and sizes. Mortar, on the other hand, has a smoother, more workable consistency that is designed for spreading and bonding masonry units.
Appearance: Concrete is often used for exposed surfaces and can be given a smooth or textured finish. Mortar is typically hidden between masonry units and is not intended to be seen.
Also read: 34 types of concrete used in construction
A quick difference between concrete and mortar
| Property | Concrete | Mortar |
| Composition | Cement, sand, gravel or crushed stone, water | Cement, sand, water |
| Strength | Stronger and more durable | Weaker than concrete |
| Consistency | Thick and stiff | Typically more fluid than concrete |
| Aggregate size | Coarse aggregates are used in concrete | Fine aggregates are used in mortar |
| Finishing | Often left exposed and finished with a smooth surface | Usually covered with a finish material such as plaster or stucco |
| Curing | Longer curing time required for maximum strength | A shorter curing time is required compared to concrete |
| Purpose | Used to create a solid, load-bearing structure | Used to bind together and fill the gaps between bricks or other masonry units |
| Reinforcement | Reinforcement such as rebar or wire mesh is often used in concrete for added strength | Does not require reinforcement |
| Durability | Generally more durable and able to withstand heavier loads and harsher environmental conditions | Less durable and more susceptible to cracking and erosion than concrete |
| Proportion | Generally has a higher proportion of cement compared to mortar, which contributes to its strength and durability | Has a higher proportion of sand compared to concrete, which contributes to its workability and bonding properties |
| Application | Used for structural elements such as foundations, walls, floors, and sidewalks | Used for bonding bricks, stones, and other building materials |
Also read: Difference between cement and concrete
