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PSA: The texture of fresh mortar isn't what it used to be...

I was on a site last week and the mortar just didn't feel right... too smooth, almost like paste. Back when I learned, we mixed it by hand in a trough, getting the sand and lime just so. You could feel the grit, and it stood up to the rain well. Now, it's all from bags, pre-mixed and same every time. I recall my first boss showing me how to test it by squeezing a ball in your palm. These days, we just add water and go. It's quicker, sure, but something about the craft feels lost. Maybe I'm just set in my ways, but I miss the hands-on part of getting the mix just right.
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3 Comments
emma_lee22
Actually, I've done well with bag mixes on my recent projects. They turn out the same every time, so I don't waste materials or have to fix things later. It's not like the old hand mix, but that even quality saves me hours. Are you using a specific brand that didn't hold up?
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felix_miller50
Always thought bag mix was progress until my patio started crumbling last year.
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aliceharris
Wait, bag mix failed that fast?
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