Mortar is used as a masonry adhesive to bind bricks, while concrete forms the foundation of structures, blocks, and slabs. Cement (usually Portland cement) is a base ingredient for mortar and concrete — the simplest way to understand the difference between these three pillars of block-making.

It's easy to confuse concrete vs. mortar vs. cement, especially when choosing which Lontto Block Machine you need for your next construction project. We've written this guide to help outline the difference between mortar and cement and concrete and how to use each.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mortar is used to bond masonry units, concrete is for structural foundations and slabs, and cement acts as a versatile binding ingredient for both. Each serves distinct purposes in construction.
  • Mortar combines cement, lime, sand, and water for adhesive flexibility; concrete blends cement, water, sand, and gravel for high compressive strength; cement is a powdered material essential for both mixtures.
  • Mortar is ideal for masonry, tiling, and restoration projects, while concrete is used for foundations, pavements, and infrastructure. Cement's versatility extends beyond construction to waterproofing and soil stabilization.

What are the Key Differences Between Concrete, Mortar, & Cement?

 mortar vs. concrete what are the differences between mortar, concrete & cement

mortar vs. concrete what are the differences between mortar, concrete & cement

Concrete is poured into molds to form blocks and slabs, mortar is an adhesive that binds blocks together, and cement is an ingredient for both. These are the key differences between concrete, mortar, and cement. If you're still having trouble remembering which is which, the easiest way to remember is to think of a cake.

The concrete is the sponge, the mortar is the icing between each layer, and the mortar is the sugar used to make both. Each has its unique applications in the construction process. You will likely regularly use all three when working on private and public construction work.

Feature Mortar Concrete Cement
Composition Cement + sand + lime Cement + fine aggregates (sand) + coarse aggregates (gravel) + water Powder (limestone + clay)
Primary use Structural material Masonry adhesive Binder
Strength Moderate Adhesive Strength High Compressive Strength* N/A

What is Mortar?

Mortar is a common material for bonding masonry units like bricks, paver stones, and concrete blocks. Mortar is essential in any construction or masonry work and reinforces structural stability between bricks and blocks. In 2022, the United States used 53.4 million tones of dry-mix concrete, according to Mordor Intelligence — 60% of which was for residential construction projects.

What is Mortar Made From?

Mortar uses a mixture of Portland cement, lime, sand, and water. Additives are often added in specific proportions to improve properties like adhesion, freeze-thaw resistance, and aesthetic finishes. The ratio of lime and sand in the mixture determines many of these properties and what the mortar mix will be used for.

Type Cement Ratio Lime Ratio Sand Ratio Primary use
Type M Mortar 1 0.25 3.5 Heavy load-bearing structures
Type S Mortar 1 0.5 4.5 Structural walls exposed to severe weather
Type N Mortar 1 1 6 General-purpose mortar
Type O Mortar 1 2 9 Interior or restoration work
Type K Mortar 1 3 12 Historic preservation projects

How does Mortar Work?

Mortar works by physically and chemically binding with the brick or stone paver with which it comes into contact. It penetrates the irregularities of bricks and stones, mechanically gripping the units. At the same time, cement-based mortars calcify, forming silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and chemically bonding to the substrate found in the bricks or blocks.

The combination of mortar and bricks creates a strong adhesive that reinforces the structural integrity of the wall or driveway you're building once the mortar hardens.

What is Concrete?

Concrete is a construction material used in building different construction projects, from dams to residential buildings. Second to water, concrete is the most consumed material in the world, with 70% to 75% of cement sales accounting for ready-mix concrete. Concrete is a mixture of different materials, like mortar, but it is only used to make blocks, bricks, and slabs using block machines.

Like the different mortar uses, concrete has mixing ratios that alter its properties. Concrete slabs and reinforced concrete will have a different gravel or cement mix to strengthen them.

What is Concrete Made From?

Concrete is made from mixing cement, water, and aggregates. While the standard ratio for concrete mix is 1:2:3, you can achieve stronger or workable concrete by adjusting this ratio.

Type Ratio
High-Strength Concrete 1:1:2
Versatile-mix Concrete 1:2:3
Workable Concrete 1:1.5:3

The water-to-cement ratio is also important for the strength of concrete. A lower water ratio will make a high strength level of concrete but hamper its workability. A ratio of 0.35 to 0.5 is the industry standard for concrete products, with a higher ratio lowering strength and increasing porosity.

How does Concrete Work?

Concrete uses hydration, forming a hard material when water reacts with the cement within the concrete. Concrete and mortar create a more potent solution once the mixture chemically reacts, although mortar is less strong than concrete. This is why mortar and concrete mix are used differently, with the latter used for making solid structures in houses and public infrastructure.

What is Cement?

Cement is a binding agent for construction materials like mortar and concrete. Masonry cement and Portland cement are key ingredients for construction, with cement hydration being the primary reason mortar and concrete can form durable structures.

What do You Use Cement For?

Cement is used as an ingredient in producing several types of construction material, including concrete, mortar, pavements, patching, and coating structures. It's a versatile binding agent that is the foundation of almost all modern-day construction - if you see a building, road, or public work, you can bet that it's made of cement.

Cement is used for waterproofing, decoration, and even soil stabilization outside of construction. Knowing the differences between cement and concrete isn't useful; it's essential for any project.

When Should You Use Mortar vs. Concrete?

You should use mortar when laying bricks, chimneys, and other masonry projects, while concrete should be used to build foundations and beams. Mortar and concrete, no matter the type of cement, are used for different purposes in construction. Rarely companies or DIY construction projects will interchangeably use concrete or mortar, so it's essential to learn what each does.

Feature Mortar Concrete
Typically used for … Bricklaying, tiling, and plastering Structural foundations, pavements, public infrastructure
Why? Mortar is a bonding agent, offering more flexibility and workability Higher psi (3,000 to 5,000+) strength with better structure for rigid and durable construction

Whether you choose to use pre-mixed concrete or mortar for your next construction project, you're going to need a block machine. Lontto provides high-quality and affordable block and brick-making machines for multiple levels of production. Browse our range and get machine pricing today.

Mortar vs Concrete FAQs

Can you use mortar to fill cracks in concrete?

Yes, mortar can be used to fill cracks in concrete, especially when the cracks are narrow and not subject to significant movement. Mortar is often recommended for repairing concrete cracks because it bonds well with the surrounding material and can be shaped to match the surface; for example, a mix of 1 part cement and 3 part masonry sand is commonly used for such repairs.

Is tile mortar stronger than concrete?

No, tile mortar is not stronger than concrete. Tile mortar typically has a compressive strength of 750–2,500 psi, depending on the type (e.g., Type N or Type M), while standard concrete generally achieves 3,000–5,000 psi and can exceed 8,000 psi in high-strength applications.

Back to Top: Mortar vs. Concrete | What are the Differences between Mortar, Concrete & Cement?

chao zhang

Author: Chao Zhang

I am Chao Zhang, I have been working in the brick making industry for over 10 years. I have a deep understanding and research on various models of block making machines, especially automatic brick machines, concrete block machines, compressed earth block machines, clay brick machines, cement brick machines. I have a special understanding of this industry. I can help my clients choose the suitable brick machine and assist them in designing and building a brick production factory. If you want to know everything about brick making machines, please contact me. I am happy to help you.