[hobolabo]

I'm planning to build a split face granite stone wall around my garage. Can anyone give me the ratio (shovels of sand, cement and/or mortar) to add for the mix. It's been years since I laid up a stone wall and don't remember it for sure.
Also, any tips on cracking a stone, such as how to read the grain would be appreciated.

Thanks, Howard

[jsnbrd]

I'm planning to build a split face granite stone wall around my garage. Can anyone give me the ratio (shovels of sand, cement and/or mortar) to add for the mix. It's been years since I laid up a stone wall and don't remember it for sure.
Also, any tips on cracking a stone, such as how to read the grain would be appreciated.

Thanks, Howard

Ingredients
You can buy ready to mix mortar in a bag or mix the constituents on your own. I prefer to mix my own. When you mix your own, you can control the ratio of them. Pictured above left are the 3 main components. From L to R, Portland cement, Masonry cement and Sand. I prefer a mixing ratio of 1:0.5:3. Type S cements are stronger than type N and should be chosen. Soft sand is also desired over gritty sand when doing stone work

Masonry cement provides a strong bond as well as being able to deal with freezing and thawing. Portland cement supplies flexural strength and adhesion
CKP Mix Mortar - 21k

Check out this link for more information on stone types and hydration

[jsnbrd]

Sorry didn't see the link above..

[Kstar4u]

If you plan to use sand and portland cement... the standard above-ground ratio is: 5 parts sand to 1 part portland cement. If you plan to add lime to inhibit mortar shrinkage as it dries... add the lime at the same ratio as the cement: 5:1:1.

I would use pre-mixed mortar mix, though... it usually has a "plastic" ingredient that helps to prevent shrinkage and cracking.

[hobolabo]

Thanks to all on the reply for the mixture ratio. I'll be starting it in the next couple weeks and appreciate the help.
Thanks,Howard