Polymeric, modified mortar, mortar....which one??? - Stone pointing

[maf20]

Hi

I recently laid a natural stone patio, and when I can get a decent weather window, I'll be cracking on with the pointing. So far I've had a go on about a metre length (with normal mortar) and it took me about 3 hours!!! Poor I know, but at this rate I'll have it done for Christmas 2010!

I'm wondering if polymerics or modified mortars are they way forward?

I want to do it properly of course, but also quickly! I want something that's going to add to the strength, and not just point the gap.

The stone is on a full mortar bed.

Any suggestions/ideas?

[maf20]

I am presuming that I'm not the only one that is torn? Or is it that I should perhaps know the craic with the three already? Forgive me folks but I am very much a beginner with limited knowledge.

If anyone can help, that would be great. The modified mortar looks like a doddle. Is it?

[Rich H]

Have a look on the main site. There are pros and cons for each. The easiest is probably the Romex or GftK resin mixes, but there's a price/convenience trade-off vs mortar.

[maf20]

Thanks Rich

I read the pros on cons, and when I say I'm a beginner I mean exactly that!

I was just worried about choosing one over the other and it not being suitable. I went trawling around my nearest Travis Perkins and Jewson and they've never heard of Romex. The did have something called Pave Fix, but the box said it was only suitable for the 5 dollop method and mine is on a full bed.

The modified mortar looks the most easiest to use. Is it?

I wanted to try and get it done this week as it's been left unpointed now for over two weeks.

Which will give the strongest point (i.e. adhere to the stone as well as point the gap)?

Thanks very much for your help.

ps, not bothered too much about cost. My priorities in order are: -

1. Quality
2. Ease of use
3. Price

[maf20]

Can anyone help with locating these mentioned products?

Sorry to harp on, but I really am new to this and still not sure which one to use. ANy advice and guidance is hugely appreciated.

[warnergrounds.co.uk]

You'd be better with the VPW800 from NCC. You can call them on 01257 266696.

You need about one tub per 10m2 in our experience.

The VPW800 can be used in wet weather and will set rock hard.

Give them a call and they'll give you a price for your requirements and will deliver - usually within a week.

[maf20]

Cheers Lara

Does this product adhere to the stones as well as pointing the gap?

[Tony McC]

Pave-Fix (which is crap) is only suitable for use with the 5-dollop method (which is crap).

Now that's what I call consistency!

[maf20]

Hi Tony

I noticed that just as the guy at Jewson's was walking it over to the til! Mine's on a full mortar bed.

Got to get this pointed this weekend.

What do you suggest?

Thanks for the help

[Rich H]

Well, as you have 'ease of use' as a priority over cost, go for the GftK product from NCC as recommended by Lara.

[Tony McC]

Go for one of the epoxy polymerics: either Romex or VDW; they are both excellent products.

[maf20]

Cheers

Does anyone know who stocks Rompox patio?

[Tony McC]

FFS! read one or two of the DOZENS of threads on this same subject!