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How to apply the mortar:
- Thoroughly mix the grout
with water. Use approximately one gallon of water per 80 lbs. of mortar.
The thickness or consistency of the mortar is important. It should be
able to flow through the bag easily, but stay in the joint when applying.
A good test is to stick your hand in the bucket and squeeze the mortar
through your fingers, you should be able to turn your hand over and
the mortar shouldn't drop off. When mixing a mortar dye with the mortar,
do not use more than 1/2 the box of dye for every 80 lbs. of mortar.
Also, be sure to mix the dye and mortar in a dry state.
- Fill the baker's bag with
mortar (make sure the metal tip is in the bag) and while holding the
bag at a 45 degree angle, twist the bag so the mortar will flow out
the tip. Be careful not to get any mortar on the face of the brick.
If you do, don't wipe off immediately, wait until it turns stiff and
then scrape it off with a putty knife. After the mortar is in the wall
it will start to set up.
- When you see the moisture
darkening the edge of the brick around the mortar and the mortar becomes
crumbly to the touch, start to strike the joints. Don't let the mortar
get too hard. Always strike the vertical joints first then come back
and strike the horizontal joints. Wait until the mortar becomes hard,
then brush the wall with a soft bristle brush.
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