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Pre-mixed mortar vs. mix-your-own: Is the extra cost really worth it for a small patio job?
I just finished a 200 square foot patio in Denver using pre-mixed mortar from the hardware store, and it cost me about $80 more than if I'd mixed my own from bags. The joints came out way cleaner though, no guessing on the water ratio or dealing with dusty clouds in my face. I'm wondering if that convenience trade-off is worth it for a one-time job or if I should just stick to the old-school bucket and hoe method for the next project. What do you guys usually go with for smaller residential work?
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the_jesse17d ago
Your Denver dry air question is spot on." The pre-mix held moisture way better than what I've seen with site-mixed stuff on hot days. For a small patio like yours, I'd say the extra cost is worth skipping the headache.
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sanchez.robin18d ago
no guessing on the water ratio" - are you in Denver with the super dry air? I've had mortar dry out way too fast on hot days here, does the pre-mix help with that at all?
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