Slablayer or sand & cement? - Bedding for slate patio

[kipperdog]

Hello,

I'm in the process of doing a 15sqm patio and not sure whether to use Slablayer (Blue Circle 20kg bags) or a standard sand/cement mortar for the bedding.

The pavers I have are 42 x uncalibrated natural riven slate 600x600mm. The thickness varies from 15–25mm 'ish.

Slablayer looks easier to prepare and not much more expensive (ready mixed just add sprinkled water) but not sure if it will allow me as much flexibility when it comes to laying and levelling each slab which will vary.

If sand/cement is the way to go should I opt for a mix of 6:1 rather than 10:1?

Any advice much appreciated!

[digerjones]

Sharp sand. I do 5-1.

[KeburDave]

If its Slate make sure you apply a primer on the underside of the slab before you lay it otherwise it wont adhere to the mortar

[kipperdog]

Thanks for the help guys.

After a bit of research on using SBR – would you recommend adding some of this to the mortar bedding mix or brushing onto the slabs before laying?

If brushing onto slabs do they need to be laid before it dries or is that not important?

And should I wet the slate slabs before priming or leave dry?

Thanks again

[digerjones]

Mix neat sbr with cement to make a sloppy mix. Then coat the flags just before laying

[Tony McC]

....or read the dedicated page all about Bond Bridge SBR