Cracked pointing

[jamesn6]

I have recently had a couple of patios laid and the pointing on them both is quite different. The larger one has pointing that looks 'sandy' but it isnt loose. The contractor said that he used quick drying stuff but I dont know what it is. It looks much neater than the other patio which is pointed with traditional mortar I am sure. The problem with the latter is that some of the pointing was over the edges of the riven slabs and I took it upon myself to scrape this off. What has happened now is that there is a small gap between the pointing and the edge of several slabs - as if the pointing has not adhered to the slab. I dont really want to call the contractor back because the worker they used is a bit slap dash. My larger patio was laid by their usual chap whose work is obviously better - and I think he is poorly at present. Do we need to scrape the pointing out and repoint and if so what do we use - a)that is easy (easipoint?) and b) that will be the same colour (looks pale grey)? Or can we simply fill the gap in (although it really just looks like a thin crack).

Cheers.

[lutonlagerlout]

sounds like it needs repointing james
a photo would be handy
cheers LLL

[pink]

please can you help. The pointing on some paving slabs is letting through the weeds do I have to repoint or can i fill with sand and dry cement

[lutonlagerlout]

weedkiller===> pointing out====>repoint with moist sand cement mix
LLL

[Rich H]

james: the contractor should rectify the problem, whomever he uses to do it. It's not uncommon for the pointing not to bond to the paving - depending on the method it's either not adequately compacted into the joint or it's dried before curing - a problem in this weather. If I were the contractor I'd rather you called me in and have me sort it.

pink: weeds growing in the paving joints can be caused by many things from little or no sub-base, lack of proper bedding, lack of proper pointing or plain old age. The remedy ranges from application of a weed killer, wait till it's all dead, clean out and re-point properly (not with brushed in sand and cement though preferably) through to lifting the slabs and starting again. Do you have a photo?

You might try reading Tony's guide here:

http://www.pavingexpert.com/pointing.htm

[Rich H]

LLL - that's so much quicker and clearer than my version!!

[lutonlagerlout]

procrastination is the thief of time mate
i been out pricing tonight so wanted to keep it brief
LLL

[Rich H]

That's why you're booked to next year - I was out playing footie :p

[Tony McC]

Late to this thread (been away doing that photoshoot for the linear channels) but what worries me is the statement from the OP that the contractor used "quick drying stuff". Is it just me or is anyone else's bullshit detector ringing like a fire engine on it's way to a chippie?

[lutonlagerlout]

sounds like BS but then i hear all sorts of claims made by trades to try and impress clients
LLL