Dirty gravel - Removal

[Jeeves19]

Hi folks. I am currently considering re-jointing my patio slabs. I say 'rejointing' but the existing construct has got gravel in between the slabs and I propose to replace this with mortar. But there are lots of joints and the process of removal might be a right pain. I'm presuming that I'd hire a vacuum like a Henry to do this but wondered what experienced slabbers would do. Thanks very much, Jeeves.

[lutonlagerlout]

either jet wash them out or use a Henry,not sure I would want my 560 quid hoover sucking up gravel though
LLL

[Tony McC]

Piece of roofing batten with a 6 inch nail thorigh it. Rake it through the gravel to displace it and then sweep away.

If you are using a cement-based or resin-based mortar, you need at least 25mm depth, preferably closer to 50mm for cement-based mortars.

Anything other than an industrial vacuum for clearing fine aggregate (they start at around 15,000 quid) will be chewed to buggery and back again in under a minute if you used it to suck up gravel and coarse grit.

[Jeeves19]

Thanks lads. Really appreciate you taking the time to reply. Regards.