The Brew Cabin

Posted: **Thu Apr 26, 2007 4:26 pm**

Hello,

I recently pointed my Indian sandstone paving with a dry/wet mix and by in large its a good job. However, a few of the slabs have been 'framed' with a faint cement boarder. I am unsure how this happened as I thought I has swept off all residue and the mix was not wet. Regardless, I would be grateful for some help on how to remove this cement. I gather from your website that acid is a big NO, and mechanical action is the answer. If I use a wire brush as advised, are there any precautions I should take, for example, if I scrub too hard will I leave pernament scratches? For all I know these might 'heal' over time but thought I should check.

Much Obliged,

Sam

Posted: **Fri Apr 27, 2007 1:36 pm**

It's known as 'picture framing' and is a big problem for some stone and some wet-cast products when laid on a wet bed and/or pointed with a wet mortar.

As you've spotted, acid cleaning is best avoided, and, to be honest, I'd avoid mechanical cleaning. Give it the summer and you will probably find that the framing fades and becomes hardly noticeable.

Less than ideal, I know, but it really is the best solution.

Posted: **Fri Apr 27, 2007 1:57 pm**

Less than perfect? Sounds great to me. I dont have to do anything all summer and then the problem will look after itself (well mostly!). Thats all I needed to hear...why aren't all of lifes little problems so easily solved?!

Thanks Tony...much appreciated. Great website.

The Brew Cabin

Cement framing - Cement frame at paving edges