I know the handymen and handywomen who follow me enjoy every stage of a project, especially when they get motivated to take on small renovations around the house from scratch. The best part is sitting back to enjoy the transformed space once the desired results are achieved. But to get there, you need to take care with every step—from planning to selecting the right materials and applying them properly. For example, when it comes to building a block wall, plastering a surface, or completing any minor construction project at home, using the right products is essential to achieving the best results.
Pre-mixed mortar is the best ally for contractors or DIY homeowners who love to take on their own projects. It simplifies all kinds of plastering, masonry, and general construction jobs while providing dependable results. Among the brands on the market, my favorite is the original: Weco’s W350 Mezclalista. This dry mortar mix is made with Type I Portland cement, refined sands, fibers, and additives—resulting in high compressive strength and consistent quality. Plus, it’s ready to use—available in 50 lb bags or 10 lb pouches, just add water.
What makes Weco’s W350 Mezclalista the best in the market?
Better finish and workability: Its formula includes fibers and additives that reduce cracking and shrinkage.
Higher compressive strength: It’s the only formula on the market that simultaneously meets ASTM C-270 Type N, S, and M standards, meaning you can plaster, lay blocks, and handle general construction tasks with one product—meeting structural requirements in the process.
Smoother consistency and particle size: The fine marble sands in the formula result in a finer, more uniform finish that feels smooth to the touch.
How to use W-350 Mezclalista:
- Ensure the surface is clean, well-bonded, and free of dust, grease, wax, oil, mold, paint, efflorescence, or other contaminants.
- In a clean container, add 1 to 1.5 gallons (4–6 liters) of clean water per 50 lb bag.
- Add W-350 Mezclalista to the clean water and mix slowly using a mixing drill. Note: If more water is needed, add small amounts gradually and continue mixing until the desired consistency is achieved. Do not exceed 1.5 gallons (6 liters) of water per bag.
- If plastering a wall, apply Weco’s W130 Rough Bond Yellow concrete adhesive to promote better adhesion of the mix to the concrete surface.
- Once the adhesive has dried, apply the W-350 Mezclalista using conventional masonry methods, to approximately 1/2" thickness.
- Wait until it is firm but not completely dry, then finish the surface using a rubber float or sponge in circular motions.
Weco’s W-350 Mezclalista is the only product on the market that meets all the standards for plastering, block laying, and reliable, quality-backed construction. You can find W-350 Mezclalista and other Weco Professional System products at A.O.R. Building Supplies in Santurce, Maderera Donesteves in Carolina, Ferretería La Mina in Naguabo, Builder Supply in Bayamón, Home Decor Plaza in Humacao, National Lumber, Ace Hardware Puerto Rico, D’Aquí Hardware, and leading hardware stores in your community. For more information, visit www.wecopr.com, facebook.com/wecopr, or call 787-739-3751.
Engineer Carly Carrión is a remodeling specialist, founding partner of Black & White Diversified, One-Studio, and a Weco contributor. For more ideas, visit www.preguntaleacarly.com, find him on Facebook at remodelacionescarly, or call 787-234-3777.