Associate Contractors License Practice Exam

Water is typically added to mortar to retemper it, which means to restore the workability of the mortar after it has begun to set. When mortar is mixed, it can initially have the right consistency, but over time, especially if it sits for a period without being used, it can start to stiffen and lose its ability to be easily manipulated. Adding water allows the mortar to regain that pliable texture, making it easier to work with when laying bricks or blocks.

The importance of not using other materials like sand, cement, or mud for retempering lies in the change of composition they would introduce. For example, adding sand changes the mixture's ratios and could adversely affect the strength and bonding properties of the mortar. Similarly, adding cement could lead to an uneven mixture, potentially resulting in compromised strength or improper adhesion. Such alterations can diminish the effectiveness of the mortar, leading to potential issues in construction quality. Therefore, water is the key ingredient for maintaining the optimal workability of mortar, ensuring that it retains its intended performance characteristics.