Before pouring cement, mortar is mixed for:

Study for the California General Contractor B Exam. Engage with multiple choice questions and flashcards, each offering hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your test!

The mixing of mortar before pouring cement is critical to achieving the desired consistency and strength. Mortar typically requires a mixing duration of about 3 minutes to ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly combined, without over-mixing. This time frame allows for proper hydration of the ingredients, resulting in a uniform texture, which is essential for optimal bonding and performance of the mortar.

Mixing for 3 minutes aids in achieving the right workability, ensuring that the mortar can be easily applied while still maintaining its structural integrity. Over-mixing could introduce too much air into the mixture, which can compromise its strength. Similarly, mixing for less than 3 minutes may not adequately blend the ingredients, resulting in weak spots once the mortar sets. This precise time frame is especially important in construction projects where the quality of the mortar directly affects the durability and longevity of the work.

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