Pointing patio with mortar gun

[Roger Mills]

Some years ago, I had a new tarmac drive - with a line of pavers all round to finish it off. The people doing it pointed between the pavers using a mortar gun - and made it look very easy, but I suspect that there is a steep learning curve! I later bought a mortar gun but have not thus far had the courage to use it.

I have a patio which is in need of re-pointing - and would be an ideal candidate for the mortar gun.

I would be grateful for any pointers(!) as to:

• what sand to use and what sand to cement ratio

• what - and how much - plasticiser to use make the mortar flow

• anything else relevant

TIA.

[John Rumm]

I sort of feel I ought to be able to answer this since I also got a mortar gun back when doing my patio rebuild[1] in 2020. However in the end I did not end up making much use of it, but I can't really remember why! I think I may have thought it might speed up pointing, but found that the time spent filling it somewhat negated the benefit.

Plasticiser helps, but you don't need much of it. I typically use 1 measure from the container (prolly about 15ml) per mixer load. Just added to the gauging water before mixing.

Sand and cement ratio is more determined by the mix you need. A small amount of grit (sharp) sand added might help it flow.

[1]

[R D S]

Pretty much that, a faff to get a relatively small amount of mortar in, a faff to get the mix just right so it would go through (too dry, no good obviously, too wet and you just push the water out of it.

I binned mine.