Everyone in the construction industry is familiar with dry silos, they are a trusted solution and have been the go-to option in the UK for many years. However, this doesn’t mean dry silo mortar is right for every site. Projects are becoming more complex with greater demands on time, labour and space, forcing more contractors to take a fresh look at how mortar is supplied and used.

Perhaps it is time to start considering ready-mix mortar?

Understand the differences

Essentially, both methods are designed to achieve the same end result: workable mortar for bricklaying. The difference lies in how that mortar gets to the site and the handling process once it’s there.

Dry silo mortar is delivered and stored in bulk before being mixed on site using a silo system. It requires allocating a storage area with power and water connections, and ongoing management throughout the life of the project.

Ready-mix mortar, on the other hand, is delivered on a truck in a pre-blended, ready-to-use format. The mortar is mixed off-site, under controlled conditions,to your specific requirements.

Both have their place, and the right choice will largely depend on the precise nature of your construction project.

Why is dry silo mortar still widely used?

The main reason why dry silos have been the default choice for decades is that it’s simply what contractors know and trust.

On longer, large-scale projects, a silo can provide a steady supply of mortar on site. Once installed, it becomes part of the daily workflow, and teams are familiar with how to manage it. Some businesses also prefer having materials on hand at all times, particularly where schedules are fluid or delivery access is limited.

But while the upfront cost of a silo can appear low, it doesn’t always tell the full story.

Looking beyond the price of mortar

Take a step back and consider the wider picture. When choosing dry-silo mortar, don’t just consider the material itself. You need to factor in the installation time and potential plant hire costs. The silo also takes up valuable space, which can be a challenge on tighter or more complex sites. Utility connections are often required, and labour is needed to manage batching and mixing throughout the day.

Next, there’s the risk of inconsistency. When mixing happens on site, variations can occur between batches. Add to that the potential for waste from over-preparation, plus ongoing maintenance or rental costs, and the overall investment can quickly add up.

Why choose ready-mix mortar?

Ready-mix mortar offers a different approach, built around simplicity, consistency and efficiency.

Because it’s pre-blended at a production facility, there’s no need for on-site mixing and is available in a wide range of colours. That means no silo to install, no equipment to maintain and no extra space required. The mortar arrives when you need it, in line with your programme, allowing teams to get straight to work. In an environment where skilled labour is in short supply, that time saving can make a real difference.

Consistency is another key advantage. Each batch is computer-controlled and produced to exact tolerances, ensuring reliable performance throughout the project. It’s also tested to British and European standards, giving added confidence in quality.

From a practical point of view, it’s simply a cleaner way to work. Enjoy less mess, less handling and a more streamlined site setup.

The flexible solution for modern construction projects

A common misconception is that ready-mix mortar is only suited to full-project use. However, it can also play a valuable role in supporting projects at different phases. For example, it’s particularly useful for ‘top and tail’ scenarios where a silo isn’t yet installed or has already been removed, but work still needs to continue.

It also offers flexibility on sites where space is limited or where multiple trades are working in close proximity. Without the need for fixed equipment, it’s easier to adapt as the project evolves.

Real-world benefits on-site

Many contractors who have made the switch to ready-mix mortar highlight the practical benefits straight away. Cleaner working conditions, faster setup and improved efficiency all contribute to a smoother day on site. Instead of waiting for mixes or managing equipment, teams can focus on the job itself.

That shift in workflow is becoming increasingly important as the industry faces ongoing labour challenges. When skilled time is limited, solutions that reduce downtime and simplify processes naturally stand out.

Barnsley Brickwork used dry silos for nearly 20 years before changing to ready-mix mortar.

"Ready mix mortar is a lot cleaner, effective and quicker. Our team can get straight to work, rather than waiting on tubs to come out of the silo. We'll never go back to using dry silos," says Glenn Dawson from Barnsley Brickwork.

What mortar system should you choose?

This isn’t about one option being universally better than the other. Both dry silo and ready-mix mortar have their place, and the right choice depends on your project, your site conditions and your way of working.

Whether you’re planning a full project or need support at key stages, ready-mix mortar offers a flexible, modern solution that fits around your programme.