A mortar is a mixture used to bind masonry elements like bricks. It consists of sand, a binding agent like cement or lime, and water. Mortar bonds elements together, allows forces to be transmitted between them, and enables forces to be distributed across surfaces. There are several types of mortar including mud, lime-sand, cement-sand, and cement-lime-sand. The properties of mortar depend on factors like the binder, sand, water and curing used. Mortar must be workable but also develop strength over time.