How to replace one cracked slab

[David 1234]

Patio made up of granite slabs 600 x 600. Four have hairline cracks. Manufacturer will pay for relaying those slabs. How realistic is it to pull out individual slabs and relay without damaging the neighbouring slabs? They are practically butted up to each other but at least no pointing, just kiln dried sand to go in.

The slabs are layed on 5 to 1 sharp sand and cement, now rock solid. Any suggestions most welcome...

[Pablo]

Easy fix this one with a saw or a grinder cut a square in the middle of the flags. Overlap the cuts so that the small section is isolated then lift it out with a couple of trowels. Then use a pick or anything else that will lever the flags out. Bust out the mortar and relay as usual remembering that if you don't put in enough mortar then you will have trouble getting the flag out. Good luck.

[David 1234]

Thanks for that Pablo. Interesting what you say - I heard the problem would be lifting a slab out if I went too low. I wondered if a vacuum lifting aid could be the solution, although not sure if it'd work on granite slabs which aren't totally smooth.

How would you break out the mortar? It is very hard, but I would worry about a breaker damaging the adjoining slabs.

[Pablo]

Vacumm lifter is overkill. When breaking the mortar start in the middle and work outwards maybe cut the mortar around the edges and through the middle to speed things up. You'll soon realise when you get started that you were worrying about nothing. Cheers

[David 1234]

Thanks very much - will let you know how I get on.