Brick and block mortar In any concrete block or brick construction, mortar is an essential element for bonding these components to one another. In essence, mortar is the glue that holds the bricks and blocks together. Mortar is usually available as a dry powder, and is mixed onsite with water to create a thick, viscous paste-like substance which is spread between courses of brick or block. As an integral part of block and brick building, mortar must be extremely strong and durable, as well as resistant to heat and insulative. Brick and block mortar and asbestos When mortar manufacturers were looking for a ready source of material that would meet the basic characteristics of heat-resistance, durability, insulating capability, and strength, it’s no wonder they looked to asbestos. Cheap and readily available, asbestos made up as much as 90 to 95 percent of most mortar mixes in the United States until the 1980s. There’s no doubt that builders preferred the mixtures which contained asbestos; they were considered to be far stronger than cement-based mortars. As a result, builders used them lavishly when constructing private homes, office buildings, shopping centers, schools, and hospitals. In fact, nearly every building constructed prior to the mid-1980s was constructed with mortar that contained asbestos as a primary component. Generally, asbestos is not harmful as long as it is contained and undisturbed. It becomes harmful when particles of the long, thin strands break apart and become and become airborne, making them easy to inhale. Once lodged in the lungs, they cause a host of health problems, including mesothelioma and other cancers. As undisturbed mortar, the asbestos poses little danger. Over time however, mortar can break down as years of weather exposure and other factors take their toll. A far greater risk exists when these structures are renovated or modified. An exciting home renovation or addition can take on a much more dangerous aspect when it involves removing or altering block or brick elements – including foundations – of an existing structure that contains asbestos mortar. Even on a small scale, brick and block demolition raises vast quantities of dust as the mortar breaks away, dust containing asbestos particles which can be inhaled. If you’re undergoing a home or office renovation, or you’re involved in renovations in your career, always take precautions when working with existing brick or block by wearing a mask or respirator.
Posted on: Tue, 24 Jun 2014 06:10:39 +0000
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