patio repointing: newbie tips

[bruce_phipps]

I am a "cement newbie" currently repointing my patio flags. Current mortar pointing is breaking up and weeds are getting through. I am using ready mixed Rugby mortar (not fast setting type); just add water. I tend to rake out and redo a small patch each evening when the sun is fading. Quite pleasant work really.

A few questions:

• Mortar mix -- stiff/sandy mix is easier to brush clean but is harder to work with; wetter mix drops straight into the gap, but can get onto flag face. Which is best?

• Do the flags need any expansion gaps left at the edges? Compared to repointing using sand, say, repointing using mortar gives a less flexible joint.

• I have read a few horror stories about such repointing tasks failing quite quickly due to the mortar drying out. As a newbie, should I leave this until the cooler weather?

bruce

[andrewpreece]

I use a wetter mix and just run a sponge over the flags. You need to rinse the sponge out and repeat this several times. Use plasticiser to get a really workable mortar that isn't too wet either.

Don't know. Walls under about 13ft don't need expansion gaps so maybe you can get away without.

cover with a wet sack if you're worried.

Andy