Expert: David Coil/C. R. Construction - 3/27/2008

Question
QUESTION: I am building a cinder block courtyard wall and am having a most frustrating time with getting the mortar to "stick".  I am using Quikrete type N in 80 lb bags which recommends 4.7 liters of water with a max of 6 liters per bag (about 5 3/4  liters seems to give the right consistency).  After setting the blocks and then waiting for 3 or 4 days, I very gently (two fingers !) test to see if the block moves....and guess what...it does!! I can easily lift the blocks off of their mortar bed.  The mortar underneath is dry and crumbly.  I can remove most of it with my fingers.  
A neighbor just built a similar wall and told me that the Quikrete Mortar mix has too much sand and I need to add a shovel of cement and a shovel of lime to each bag.

Should I be mixing my own mortar using 1 part cement,
1 part lime and 4 to 6 parts sand or take my neighbors' advice or......???
One other fact...I live Henderson, near Las Vegas...very dry weather.  Temperature right now is in the 70's          
What do you think is going on here?
I would really appreciate some expert advice!

Thank You!!
Paul Redman

ANSWER: We are neighbors.  Eastern and 215.  There are several types of mortar mixes...most are lousy.  Home depot on Serene is the only one that has a good mortar mix.  $ 4.49 (?) per bag.  It hasnt failed me yet.  But that is only for small jobs.  If you need for than 10 bags...you are ahead to buy separate materials and make your own mix.  Instead of Lime...fire clay.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: David:  Do you know the brand name of the suggested mortar mix at Home Depot on Serene...also what is the advantage of Fire Clay over Lime and can Fire Clay be purchased at Home Depot, Lowes.....?

Thank You!!!
Paul Redman

Answer
Fire clay is only available at a Masonry yard, I use Allied on Western/Oakey.  Fire clay makes the mortar sticky for buttering your block.  If you are using T&G block..you dont need sticky,..lime is ok for that application....I still prefer clay.  Home Depot changes brands so often..I just look for the $4.00 bag.