Big patio - Romex grout

[TheVictorianCobbleCo]

First off, just to let you know I'm still around. Second, for a 100m2 patio laid with 450 x 450 x 38mm Marshall type coloured concrete slabs, (11m x 9m approx) one level, is there any point in introducing expansion joints (Kent Farm Location) given at 150 - 200mm compacted sub base etc., or does the slab/grout construction compensate? Upmarked installation so will use Romex, puzzled that romex doesnt bond with slab, or have I missread this?

[lutonlagerlout]

hi bill
i was under the impression that you dont need expansion joints in patios,because they are cellular to an extent,unlike say a monolithic concrete slab or bitmac
i think from what i have heard that romex has a lot more resin in it thean geoshit and so sticks together better
personally i think mortar pointing wins hands down for longevity,although you could always try easi-point for a range of mortar colours and aggregates
cheers
LLL

[Stuarty]

I would have thought youd need an expansion joint in a patio. For the same reasons as LLL said above. Not unless they are getting laid onto a full bed of mortar. Id imagine there would need to be in that, but not for a 10:1 mix, they are slightly flexible, a bit like a block drive. Cant comment on the pointing, ive only ever used mortar to point.

[TheVictorianCobbleCo]

Thanks to both of you, It was my strong suspicion no exp joint was required for the same reasons, it was just the size made me start to question my confidence in my decision. I also agree, I've also always preferred a mortar point, and think I've pretty much got the hang of it, but once again was prepared bow to superior knowledge and use Romex. Every time I've swept in mortar, no matter how much I clean immediately after, I'm still left with a filmed/dusty finish, and I'm never really happy with an unpressed/untrowelled finish. Thanks again.
Billy

[lutonlagerlout]

no worries
i wonder has anyone here tried easi-point,i seem to remeber someone saying it was great for filling the joints ,you just leave it a while then run around pointing after
plus the gauge will always be bang on
mind you we used some special roofing mortar for some ridge and hips last week and i have to say it looks horribly grey==> like too grey
lol
LLL