Typically for pointing, a common cement and sand mix ratio is usually 1:3, which means 1 part of cement mixed with 3 parts of sand. This mixture provides good consistency, workability and durability for pointing applications.
However, depending on specific application and conditions, the mixing ratio can vary. It’s important to ensure the mix is consistent and appropriate for the task at hand. Additionally, consider using hydrated lime in the mix to improve consistency or workability and reduce shrinkage.
For pointing application, a mix ratio of 1:2 (lime to sand) or 1:3 (cement to sand) is commonly used. This means one part of lime is mixed with two parts of sand (1:2) or one part of cement is mixed with three parts of sand (1:3)
1 part of cement is mixed with 3 parts of sand or fine aggregates with water to obtain a good adhesive paste that adheres well, fills the space between brick, block and stone masonry joints and improves the architectural appearance.
Standard mix ratio for wall pointing should be 5:1, means 5 parts building sand and 1 part cement, add plasticiser to improve its consistency. The Patio slabs or exposed brickwork, you may need a stronger mix like 3:1 sand / cement.
Pointing mix ratios with lime can vary depending on the specific application. Lime is commonly used in construction, particularly in mortar and plaster mixes. Here are some typical mix ratios for lime-based mixes: a typical mix ratio of 3:1 (sand: lime) is used for Mortar Mix, Plaster mix, and Stucco Mix, and a typical mix ratio of 2:1 (sand: hydrated lime) is used for Whitewash mix.
Here are the typical pointing mix ratios for different types of civil works:
- A cement mortar mix ratio of 3:1 to 4:1 (sand to cement) is commonly used for different architectural design like Tuck Pointing, Roof Pointing, Sandstone Pointing and Wall Pointing.
- Patio slab: For patio slab pointing, a mix ratio of 3:1 (sand to cement) is usually used, depending on the desired strength and texture. This means three to three parts of sand is mixed with one part of cement.
- Bricklaying: For typical brickwork pointing, a mix ratio of 4:1 to 5:1 (sand to cement) is often used. This means four to five parts of sand is mixed with one part of cement. This ratio provides a balance between workability and strength for laying bricks.
The recommended pointing mix ratio has listed below for the various types of civil works:-
| Nature of pointing work | Sand to Cement ratio for pointing |
| Patio slab | 3:1 |
| Expose brickwork | 3:1 |
| Bricklaying or brickwork | 4:1 or 5:1 |
| Tuck pointing | 3:1 |
| Sandstone pointing | 4:1 |
| Roof pointing | 3:1 |
| Stone pointing | 4:1 |
| Wall pointing | 5:1 |
Conclusions:
Cement and sand mix ratio for pointing: bricklaying, a mix ratio of 4:1 to 5:1 (sand to cement), Patio slab, 3:1 (sand to cement), 3:1 to 4:1 is commonly used for Tuck Pointing, Roof Pointing, Sandstone Pointing and Wall Pointing.