CAN/CSA-A179-14 (R2019) PDF Download

The text describes the CAN/CSA-A179-14 (R2019) standard, titled "Mortar and grout for unit masonry." This is the fourth edition of the standard, superseding previous editions published in 2004, 1994, and 1976. The changes in this edition include adding Portland-limestone cement and blended hydraulic cement as acceptable cementitious materials, adding requirements for self-consolidating grout, referencing ASTM C979 as the required standard for coloring pigments, revising the selection of mortar types in Annex A, and adding Annex D on repair mortars for older, traditional masonry.

The scope of the standard is to specify requirements for mortar used in bedding, jointing, and bonding of masonry units, as well as grout used in filling core, cell, or cavity space in unit masonry construction. The term "unit masonry" refers to masonry construction using clay, calcium silicate, or concrete masonry units within certain size limits. The standard notes that not all unit masonry constructed with conventional mortar will satisfy the design strengths or bond requirements, and additional tests or certifications may be needed.

The standard classifies two types of mortar (Type N and Type S) and two types of grout (fine and coarse). Annexes A and D provide guidance on selecting and specifying mortar types for new masonry construction, as well as for restoring older, traditional masonry that may not meet modern engineering standards.