North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

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What is the maximum time after mixing that mortar should be used to prevent hardening from hydration?

  1. 1 hour

  2. 2 hours

  3. 3 hours

  4. 4 hours

The correct answer is: 4 hours

The maximum time after mixing that mortar should be used to prevent hardening from hydration is indeed four hours. This timeframe is critical because once mortar is mixed, it begins a hydration process that leads to the setting and hardening of the material. If not used within four hours, the mortar may start to lose its workability and strength, which ultimately impacts the structural integrity of the construction project. Using mortar within this period allows for optimal adhesion and performance, ensuring that it can effectively bond the materials it is meant to support. Beyond this time window, the hydration process leads to an irreversible change, and the mortar may no longer perform as intended, leading to potential issues in the overall construction quality. Understanding the significance of this timing is essential for contractors to ensure that they apply mortar effectively and maintain the quality of their work.