Used a different mortar mix for a patio in Phoenix and it set way too fast

I was doing a small patio job out in Phoenix last week and grabbed a bag of Quikrete Mortar Mix instead of my usual. The heat was around 105, and the stuff was basically rock hard in the bucket after 20 minutes. I learned the hard way that some fast-set mixes just can't handle that kind of dry heat without a real fight. Anyone have a go-to mix for super hot, dry climates that gives you more working time?

2 comments

2 Comments

matthewgonzalez15d ago

Basically rock hard in the bucket" is my personal brand. I once mixed a batch so fast I had to chisel my trowel out. For that heat, I just use the regular stuff and keep a spray bottle of water handy like it's my new religion.

dakota_taylor3915d ago

Learned that lesson with fast set mix in Vegas last summer. Started using Type N mortar and mixing it with ice water from a cooler. Keep everything in the shade, even the bags before you open them, and just work in tiny batches. You get maybe 45 minutes before it starts to turn on you.