What cement/concrete do I need to fill patio slab cracks?

ukonlineshopping

Most of my patio slabs have gaps around the side where the cement has gone. I think this is called pointing?

What cement is the best to re-do them and is it worth me knocking out the remaining bits so it will all match?

Is it a sand/cement mix required or a ready made product I need?

Thanks in advance

wellused

If the rest of the pointing is loose then it would be better to remove it but if it is solid then leave it where it is you don't want to be making work for yourself needlesly especially if there is a big area to do.
Clean the loose mortar out of the gaps and mix some builders sand with cement to the ratio of about four parts sand to one part cement by volume, mix this dry (don't add water) until the colour is consistent throughout the batch. You will need a watering can, a brush, and a pointing trowel or suitable tool to compress the mixture tightly into the joints between the slabs. Do this on a dry day preferably not in full sun, pour water into the joints between the slabs trying not to get water onto the face of the slabs, sweep the sand cement mix into the joints doing a small area at a time, and press the mixture into the joints firmly so that the water rises up and makes the jointing material damp, finish off the jointing material just below the surface of the slabs and move on to the next area. Try to keep the face of the slabs dry or the cement in the mix will be drawn into the damp areas and stain the face of the slabs. Good luck.

tony6403

Dry mortaring in my experience does not stand the test of time. It does not combine the sand/cement with the same integrity as a wet mix.
Pointing the slabs with a wet mix obviously takes more time and care but it should last for many years.