Dictionary of Moisture Protection & Restoration

Mortar testing = On the job, the freshness and spreadability of the mortar can be quickly tested with the trowel. Using the point of the trowel, pull the mortar into small, sharp ridges. If the ridges hold, the mix (in terms of the amount of water) is well proportioned. If there is too much water, the ridges will run down and slump. If there is not enough water, the ridges will break and crumble. Good mortar has the consistency of soft mud. Muriatic acid = Acid solution used for cleaning masonry work. A solution of hydrochloric acid. Nominal dimension = The size of a building unit in place with mortar, as opposed to the actual, measured size of the unit. Opus quadratum = A decorative Roman wall facing, backed by a concrete core, formed of small pyramidal stones with their points embedded in the wall, their exposed square bases set diagonally, forming a net -like pattern Overhand work = Laying of brick from inside a wall. Masonry of squared stones in regular ashlar courses. Opus reticulatum =

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