Repointing A Patio.
Question
I would like to re-point my patio. Please could you tell me the best way to do this?
Answer
With regard to your question on repointing your patio, start by removing the existing grouting.If it has gone off and is hard I would use a small electric hand grinder(HSS hire service will provide you with one)then sweep out the cracks with a small brush.
To repoint mix 4 parts soft sand with 1 part cement add a few drops of washing up liquid to act as a plasticizer.I would not bother with any water proofer etc.The key is to mix the mortar and allow it to stand until it goes crusty and crumbly,then to push it into the cracks with a small pointing trowel from a board laid along side the crack.Remove the excess and strike through with the handle of the trowel.In this way you should be able to carry out the operation without staining the slabs too much.If there is any staining wait a few hours for the mortar to start to go off, then rub the stains with some dry sand and then a wet rag.With pointing its worth experimenting with different mixes and techniques to see which one works best for you. For More information
click here