Replies

1. 
   MarkH | Dec 20, 2009 08:48am | #1

   The simplest solution is using the pre-mixed bags of "Mortar". A lot of people like to mix their own though, it can be tailored to the application, and is more economic.

2. 
   Jeff_Clarke | Dec 26, 2009 09:19am | #2

   https://www.finehomebuilding.com/how-to/articles/mortar-what-type-need.aspx

   Probably you are going to use a Type N mortar - most fieldstone is pretty hard and you don't have to worry about the mortar being stronger than the stone.

   You might want to practice a little, and learn important techniques such as wetting the stone first to avoid drying out the mortar too quickly from the stone absorbing water in the mix.

   Consistency of the mix is important too - if you can't squeeze a bit into a ball it's probably too wet. Most people carry the preconception that mortar should be much 'creamier' than it should be, which ironically creates weaker mortar.

   If you really want to be correct in a preservation sense you should have the existing mortar tested (about $250) and prepare mortar batches with similar sand to match, but most people aren't prepared to make that commitment.

   Jeff