Colored masonry mixtures appeared on the Russian construction market not so long ago, but immediately gained immense popularity. And there is nothing surprising in this. After all, with their help you can build very beautiful buildings and structures. In what cases this material is used and what performance characteristics it differs, we will consider further in the article.
What are color mixtures
In the same way as from conventional, mortars for bricklaying are prepared from dry colored mixtures . You can use them for the construction of any buildings. What distinguishes this mixture from the usual one is the presence of a certain color. It can be selected both in tone of masonry, and in contrast. Thus, when using this material, there is no need for additional finishing of joints with colored grouts. Using it, you can build a very original wall design.
The composition of the mixtures
Colored masonry mixes consist of:
- High grade cement.
- Washed fractional sand. In the manufacture of the mixture, the ratio is selected as carefully as possible. The result is a material with excellent performance. In addition, manufacturers are careful to ensure that clay does not enter the mixture. Therefore, the masonry from it turns out to be durable, and the seams do not crack.
- Dolomite flour. Additionally increases strength.
- Mineral colored pigments. Due to the fact that manufacturers use only high-quality additives of this type, the seams do not fade and do not crack over time.
- Polymer additives. They are intended to increase the adhesive properties of the material. In addition, their presence in the composition increases the moisture resistance of the solution.
Benefits of using
The use of this material in the construction of buildings and structures in comparison with ordinary concrete gives the following advantages:
- Dry masonry mixes for bricks dry in just a few hours.
- A variety of shades and colors. If desired, you can choose the material for any wall design.
- The absence of "efflorescence" on the masonry mortar.
- This material is not too expensive.
- The seams look very neat. Using this mixture allows you to hide small masonry defects. As a result, the walls get a neat, finished look.
- Colored masonry mixes are frost and moisture resistant.
- In addition, they are completely environmentally friendly.
How and where are used
There are only two uses for such mixtures. They are simply irreplaceable when it is necessary to achieve the highlighting of the color and texture of the brick itself. In this case, a solution of a contrasting shade is used. If it is necessary to make the seams invisible against the general background of the wall, use the material of the same color as the brick itself.
The masonry mixture of this variety is used for the construction of both internal and external walls. In addition, it is just great for performing various kinds of work related to the decoration of structural elements of buildings. For example, very often tile grouts are sealed with such solutions. Also, such mixtures are used when laying pavers. Another area of their application is the decoration of fireplaces, chimneys, plastering surfaces.
How to prepare a solution?
The solution is prepared in the same way as from conventional mixtures. Dry material is diluted with water to the consistency of sour cream and thoroughly mixed. Before use, the solution is incubated for an hour to obtain a good dispersion. In the winter, experts recommend diluting the mixture with exceptionally warm water. In any case, the resulting solution should be developed within three hours, otherwise it will begin to solidify.
How are masonry and grouting performed
Masonry using such solutions is performed at the complete seam. Stitching is done in the usual way. In the event that a mixture of light shades was used, only wooden or plastic tools are used. When grouting, the seams are pre-cleaned of dust and dirt. Then crosses are taken out of them. Then a solution is applied.
Kneading must be done strictly following the instructions from the manufacturer. The fact is that excess water not only reduces the strength characteristics of the composition, but also changes its hue towards lighter.
Colored masonry mixtures Perel
The most popular today are masonry colored mixtures of the Perel brand. They are made using only the highest quality materials. In addition, they are distinguished by a wide variety of colors and shades. If desired, you can purchase a white mixture, superwhite, gray, chocolate, red, yellow, cream, beige, etc.
Perel masonry mix is made using only high-quality non-additive cement. Preparing a solution of dry material is an extremely simple process. The strength of the finished mass is gaining almost instantly. Another distinctive feature of mixtures of this brand is that the solution prepared from them is characterized by a high degree of plasticity. This facilitates construction and repair work.
In accordance with the degree of water absorption of the brick, you can choose a mixture of Perel NL, Perel SL or Perel VL. This diversity allows you to perform high-quality masonry in any case.
It is certainly advisable to use such interesting material as colored masonry mixtures when erecting walls and partitions of buildings, as well as when performing various kinds of repair work. The excellent characteristics of these substances are a guarantee of the quality of finished structures and their aesthetic appearance.