Changed my mind about mixing mortar for a chimney repair in Boise

I was fixing a chimney last week and had to choose between mixing a full bag of mortar or just enough for the job. I always thought mixing a whole bag was a waste, so I measured out what I needed. But the weather turned hot and the small batch dried out way too fast before I could finish the pointing. Ended up having to chip it out and start over, which cost me an extra two hours. What's your go-to method for mixing in changing conditions?

3 comments

3 Comments

tylerr393mo ago

That small batch drying out in the heat is the worst. I always mix the whole bag now, even if it feels wasteful. The extra material gives you a much bigger working window, especially on a hot day or a sunny side of the house. You can keep it covered with a damp burlap sack to slow it down even more.

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emerycarr1mo ago

Damp burlap is a game changer, keeps the mud workable for way longer in direct sun no doubt.

reese_chen3mo ago

My last bag was fine in the Arizona sun though.