Forum home› Tools and techniques
This Forum will close on Wednesday 27 March, 2024. Please refer to the announcement on the Discussions page for further detail.

Replacing grouting on patio

MeomyeMeomye Posts: 949
in Tools and techniques
Some of the grouting between my patio slabs has worn away and I need to replace it. Could anyone tell me as to, a) whether I need to dig out old grout first or can I put a blob in the 'hole' that is worn? and b) can I buy a ready made pack of filler as opposed to buying sand, cement etc? thanks.

Posts

  • Dave HumbyDave Humby Posts: 1,145
    Jointing compound is the way to go if it needs completely renewing or a significant area is involved. It’s a big improvement over traditional mortar joints. It’s a more expensive product but that’s the only downside.

    if you’ve got a small area then it would probably be better, aesthetically, to use a mortar mix. You can get small bags of pre-mixed product from all the DIY stores so no need to buy individual sand and cement. Just add water. Pick out any loose bits from the joint, lightly dampen and trowel-in your new mix. You’ll probably have a slight colour variation from old to new. 
  • MeomyeMeomye Posts: 949
    Thanks for replies, only small areas are affected, approx, no longer than 6 inches. Any particular product you could recommend?  
  • Dave HumbyDave Humby Posts: 1,145
    There’s plenty of options at places like B&Q where you can purchase small bags such as

    https://www.diy.com/departments/u-can-mix-in-the-bag-pointing-repair-mortar-1-25kg-bag/258670_BQ.prd
  • Lizzie27Lizzie27 Posts: 12,494
    I was recommended just to carefully pour the dry mix into the holey bits and wait for the rain to do the job - far easier my friend said and you don't run the risk of the mortar staining the slabs - what do you think Dave?
    North East Somerset - Clay soil over limestone
  • Dave HumbyDave Humby Posts: 1,145
    That was a process popularised by Tommy Walsh on Ground Force Lizzie but you won’t find too many ‘professionals’ recommending it as it doesn’t tend to have longevity. Tommy used to sprinkle a watering can over the dry mix after brushing in. It’s quick and easy but will fail much earlier than a wet pointed mix. In saying that these ‘new’ jointing compounds are the best of both worlds. 

  • MeomyeMeomye Posts: 949
    Thanks for the link Dave, just right for my needs. :)
  • Lizzie27Lizzie27 Posts: 12,494
    Thanks Dave, I'll bear that in mind. We have the very pale cream (with fossils) Indian sandstone, will the new jointing compounds be ok for that?
    North East Somerset - Clay soil over limestone
Sign In or Register to comment.