How to Mix Portland Cement to Install Glass Blocks

Portland cement is used as the base for many cement and concrete mixtures utilized in various construction projects. Applied alone, Portland cement is too weak to make a good mortar for holding glass blocks in place when building glass block windows or walls. However, with the addition of a few ingredients available at almost any home improvement store, you can use your Portland cement as a very satisfactory adhesive and filler for your glass block project.

Things You'll Need

• Portland cement
• Clean sand
• Washed coarse aggregate
• Large bucket
• Water
• Shovel
• Hand-held cement mixer (optional)

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Measure 1 part Portland cement, 2 parts clean sand and 3 parts washed coarse aggregate into a large bucket.

   • 2

     Add 1 part water to your dry ingredients. Mix the contents of the bucket together with a shovel or a hand-held cement mixer.

   • 3

     Add more water, a little at a time, until the consistency of your mixture resembles toothpaste. Add a little sand and aggregate if your mixture becomes too thin.

   • 4

     Use the prepared Portland cement to mortar your glass blocks as you install them as directed.