Masonry mortar is used in classic masonry. Open joints of about 10 to 15 mm wide are formed between the bricks. At the end of the working day about 15 to 20 mm of this masonry mortar is scraped out, which creates the necessary space for filling up the facade with a joint mortar.

A joint mortar has 2 important purposes:

• A practical purpose: the open joints are filled correctly and efficiently.
• An aesthetical purpose: 10 to 20% of the visible wall surface consists of the joints and therefore the joints greatly influence the appearance of the finished facade.

A joint mortar mainly consists of cement, sand, and water. The composition of the joint mortar varies depending on the colour of the joint mortar. Sometimes lime and mineral colouring agents are added.

Joint techniques

The actual jointing can vary depending on the region and the building culture. There is no golden rule.

• Difference in timing
  In Belgium, usually the rough structure is finished first while jointing is done in a later phase. In the Netherlands, jointing is done from the bottom upwards so that laying bricks and jointing are practically done simultaneously. Every system has its advantages and disadvantages with regard to planning, moisture effect, consistency of the joint colour, speed, scaffolds, etc.
• Difference in material
  You can use a jointer for jointing. A long jointer is used for the horizontal joints and a shorter jointer for the header joints. Jointing can also be done using the spraying technique.