Bricks and Mortex: the future of construction

In recent times, significant investment in product development and state-of-the-art manufacturing operations mean the humble brick is making a comeback in both residential and commercial projects.

Case in point, a house in Waratah Bay (VIC) designed by Hayne Wadley Architecture based on Dutch artist M.C. Escher’s famous artwork, Metamorphosis III, was constructed using two tons of glazed bricks. Hophaus bar in Melbourne's Southbank features exposed black, white and snub-nosed glazed bricks that give the beer hall an edgy, vintage feel.

Traditionally, when preparing bricks for construction, a labourer is required to mix defined proportions of cement, sand, lime and admixtures onsite. This labour-intensive process often results in the use of under-strength and non-compliant mortar, especially in the hands of less experienced workers.

A new product, distributed by Austral Masonry, claims to offer a seamless, stress-free build.

According to the company, Mortex is a durable and weather resistant mortar solution which comes pre-mixed, therefore eliminating the need for any manual blending. The solution contains a mix of cement, specially graded sand, lime and admixtures that only requires water to create, hence saving on labour, time and costs.

Austral Masonry says the Mortex is M4 rated, which means it is the strongest mortar blend on the market and is fully compliant with Australian building standards.

Mortex can be used with all Austral Masonry products, and is available in the colours grey and white. It comes in a brick, block and roof tile bedding version.