What Colors Can Mortar Be?

When it comes to repairing or repointing mortar, many homeowners are surprised to learn that mortar comes in a variety of colors beyond the standard gray. In fact, modern mortar is a mixture of sand, cement, and water, and the color you see is primarily determined by the color of the cement used.

Gray and White Mortar

Most cement used in mortar is gray, which results in the familiar gray mortar color. However, white cement also exists and can be used to create a lighter, more uniform mortar color. White mortar can be particularly useful for matching existing white or light-colored mortar in historic buildings or for creating a clean, modern look.

Colored Mortar

In addition to gray and white, it’s possible to add pigments to mortar to create a wide range of colors. These pigments tint the cement, resulting in shades of red, yellow, brown, green, or black. Colored mortar can be used to match existing mortar in historic buildings, to create a specific aesthetic in new construction, or to highlight certain architectural features.

When choosing a mortar color, it’s important to consider the overall look and feel of the building, as well as the color of the existing bricks or stones. A skilled mason or bricklayer can help you select the right mortar color and provide guidance on the best way to achieve the desired look.