Quick fix to match yellow mortar for brick steps

[Mark101]

I just power-washed my brick entry steps and found a few cavities that need patching. The problem is the mortar is a weird Dijon mustard yellow, and I need a match fast.

The house just hit the MLS, so timing is everything. Could I just use a few drops of yellow Rit dye in a standard cement/mortar mix? Also, with rain in the forecast, how long should I keep it covered so the color doesn't bleed onto the brick?
Any pro tips for a quick, clean match would be a lifesaver!

 

[z3u$096]

I just power-washed my brick entry steps and found a few cavities that need patching. The problem is the mortar is a weird Dijon mustard yellow, and I need a match fast.

The house just hit the MLS, so timing is everything. Could I just use a few drops of yellow Rit dye in a standard cement/mortar mix? Also, with rain in the forecast, how long should I keep it covered so the color doesn't bleed onto the brick?
Any pro tips for a quick, clean match would be a lifesaver!

Have you tried using a specific iron oxide pigment? You can find it at most masonry supply stores to get that yellow tone.

 

[stev3njr]

@Mark101 It's important to get the correct sand for color matching. Get a sample by cutting out a bit of mortar and sticking it in brick acid. You'll be left with a sample of the original sand.

 

[dawndusk01]

@Mark101 Make sure to mix small test batches first and let them dry completely. The wet mortar always looks way darker than it will once it’s cured.

 

[bear pickles]

I just power-washed my brick entry steps and found a few cavities that need patching. The problem is the mortar is a weird Dijon mustard yellow, and I need a match fast.

The house just hit the MLS, so timing is everything. Could I just use a few drops of yellow Rit dye in a standard cement/mortar mix? Also, with rain in the forecast, how long should I keep it covered so the color doesn't bleed onto the brick?
Any pro tips for a quick, clean match would be a lifesaver!

You can try scraping a bit of the original mortar from a hidden spot to see if a local suplier can match the color exactly.

 

[bigbuZZ]

I just power-washed my brick entry steps and found a few cavities that need patching. The problem is the mortar is a weird Dijon mustard yellow, and I need a match fast.

The house just hit the MLS, so timing is everything. Could I just use a few drops of yellow Rit dye in a standard cement/mortar mix? Also, with rain in the forecast, how long should I keep it covered so the color doesn't bleed onto the brick?
Any pro tips for a quick, clean match would be a lifesaver!

Just make sure to put a waterproof tarp over the stairs for at least 48 hours sso the fresh mortar doesn’t wash out or stain the bricks around it.