The testing agency reported that one batch of their mortar samples from my job site did not meet the specified compressive strength. Do I have to take down this area of masonry and rebuild it?
A. Mortar strength is frequently misunderstood and often over emphasized. Although mortar strength has an influence over the strength of the masonry assemblage (mortar and units together), the role it plays is minor. Rather, the strength of a masonry wall is largely determined by the strength of the units. With concrete masonry especially, a 50% decrease in mortar strength may result in less than a 10% decrease in the compressive strength of the masonry assemblage. Prism tests, therefore are more important tests for quality control of the finished product. If prism tests show adequate strength, there is no reason on demolish and rebuild an area of masonry.
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