Is black pointing suitable for my new patio? - Is black going to look ok

[John R H]

Hello! Having been an avid reader of this amazing site I now have a question relating to a new patio we are having built as I write! I read on the site that black grouting brings out the colour of the flags and I wanted some assurance that this will apply to our particular stone colours. The stone colours include red, pink and cream and if I am allowed to say they are called Purestone, Rosemount. I have bought the dye ready and have asked for a charcoal grey colour for the grouting. I'm now wondering if this is the best finish to have, or should I go for buff or another colour. I would really appreciate your help and advice. Kind regards John

[Iain]

Tarmac do coloured sand for mortar, ton bags or 25kg bags if you've got a local depot. One of your local builders merchants or flagstone outlets will probably have a sample tray you can use to get the match you want with your flags. The samples are 10mm width which you can place in between a couple of your flags to get a good idea if you like that shade or not. If you cant find any local you could contact them direct at

http://www.tarmac.co.uk/mortars/

[John R H]

Thanks very much for your reply Iain. That would have been an ideal solution, unfortunately the guys are probably going to start grouting in the next 2-3 days. So basically I want some assurance/advice that a black/charcoal colour will highlight the stone rather than the grout lines. for our particular flags. Many thanks again and I have taken a note of your idea for our front garden project.

[Rich H]

It's entirely up to you - it's subjective.

I wouldn't because it's a pale slab colour and I rather have something to complement than contrast, preferring to just use building sand and cement. But, then again, I don't have to live with your garden - you do!

[warnergrounds.co.uk]

With that stone I would use a silver sand mix to give a creamy white joint which will complement the slab. I have to agree with Rich that very dark joints would probably detract from what is a very beautiful slab

[John R H]

Many thanks for your valued opinions. I spoke to the builder and put a temporary hold on the black/charcoal grout as your opinions sugggest these are not ideal for dark grout lines.

[surreyhillslandscapes.com]

this is one we did last year with black grouting, (picture quality isn't great) does make the slabs stand out, I like a darker pointing mix but it's each to their own really,
you may also notice the brickie i had on the job didn't get his mix right for the header course of the wall ???

[John R H]

Thanks for your advice and picture Surreyhillslandscapes ! I have now made a final decision based on your pic and asked the buider to buy the remaining dye required and then go for a carcoal grey/black for the grouting. I will keep my fingers crossed that I'm not disapointed Will post a completed pic for others as a reference.