Geofix staining - is sandblasting a solution? - Staining and removal of stain

[davidinleigh]

A local contractor laid a patio (approx. 200msq2) and used Geofix "Paving jointing compound" to grout. The slabs are light grey flamed granite supplied by Rock Unique.

The slabs were laid on a concrete base, I think it is fairly thick and some kiln dried sand was brushed into the joints before the use of Geofix for the joints. The joints are mostly less than 5mm. The grouting took place at the end of June and immediately it was clear that the finish was very poor with black stains appearing along the lines of the joints.

The contractor has returned on a number of occasions to try to remedy the staining using a jet was and more latterly a cleaner (which he assured me was safe for the granite). Despite these efforts the staining has not disappeared and there is now residue on the slabs from various cleaning products.

I have discussed the problem with Geofix as well as the supplier of the slabs who are both of the view that the staining should disappear over time. Geofix were reluctant to specify how long this might take; the suppliers of the slabs suggested it may take many months.

As well as staining the grout has disintegrated in many places so he patio looks terrible. Photos of the patio are on DropBox

https://www.dropbox.com/sh....Sa?dl=0

The contractor has suggested that the entire patio is sandblasted and then re-grouted. Whilst this might remove the staining I am concerned that sandblasting would change the finish of the surface from flamed to something quite different, and may well change the colour of the slabs. This "solution" seems to be motivated by a desire to release payment rather than to produce the desired finish.

So...questions:
1. does anyone have any experience of sandblasting flamed granite? Should I resist this suggestion?
2. Are there any other solutions (short of ripping up the patio and replacing all the slabs) other than waiting for the stains to fade away?
3. If the matter becomes litigious are there independent experts on paving that can provide a view?

Any other comments warmly receivd

Thanks

David

[msh paving]

No 1 the joints are far to narrow for geofix to work,not that it ever will its totally rubbish product as everyone on hear will the you.
No 2 i dont think sand blasting will be a option as it will distroy the slab finish
No 3 roger from R&A pressure washing will be along later, he is the stain man, his advice will put you in right direction.
dont pay any more money to the contractor,
you need to use a product for narrow jonts probilly from the GftK range sold by NCC street sceen
tony the owner of this web site is the man for a expert report
MSH



Edited By msh paving on 1471969037

[davidinleigh]

MSH - thank you for your response, none of which comes as a surprise.

As I am in Surrey I think that I will need an expert who is a bit more local than Tony. Any suggestions?

[RAPressureWashing]

MSH - thank you for your response, none of which comes as a surprise.

As I am in Surrey I think that I will need an expert who is a bit more local than Tony. Any suggestions?

David I am Surrey based, biggest problem I have is finding time to get over to look at this for you. If you want to email me your contact phone number I can give you a call and try to fit a site visit in.