Patching up patio grout after pressure washer clean : getting a good match

tired_dad

Got old patio from 1980's. nothing fancy; grey slabs akin to pavement with a matching grout in between.

As would be expected after a pressure washer clean, a few odd bits of mortar have come out.

Last year I mixed a bit of sand and mastercrete for a similar job but it was quite 'orangey' in colour and slightly stands out. It will take a few years to fade into the background.

Is there anyway to mix a cement that has a greyish look to get a better match from the start?

Thanks in advance

wallbash

Last year I mixed a bit of sand and mastercrete

Try a different sand ( or sand mix)
I always use a ready mix , bit more expensive but consist colour.

cyclonebri1

If it came out too "orangey" you probably used red sand, go for yellow this time, or get the stuff sold in dry bags for the purpose they are a yellow grey tone.

You won't get a proper match, it needs to age and fade, but you should be able to avoid the orange tinge;);)

tired_dad

Don't mind paying a bit more for less hassle, therefore please recommend me a ready mix.

wallbash

Suggest you go to your nearest 'shed' , they all sell premixed motar mix . Seems a bit more expensive at first glance , but you need only mix up what you require and therefore no waste.

Ps if you mix it with as little water as possible. A handful should keep its shape but leave no stain on the hand.

Force the mix and use a 'chopping' motion between slabs.Then a quick wipe with the trowel . Done correctly you will be able to power wash without removing the mixture.

cyclonebri1

As above, the mix should be the consistency that kids would use to make sand castles.

When the joints have been filled, and to do this chuck the mix on the pavers and brush into the cracks then press in with a narrow strip of wood or similar. Then repeat until the joints are flush.
You can then use the rounded end of a piece of pipe or even the wooden handle of the trowell to give a weathering groove to the joints.
Let it dry for a few hours then brush off. ;)

tired_dad

is this the sort of thing you mean?

http://www.wickes.co.uk/quality-assured-mortar-20kg/invt/153706/

wallbash

Yes , although I would look for a smaller bag ,

Ps If you just ?? brush in you won't fill the gap , you must force the mix in .
Also brushing on the mixture you risk leaving some on the surface, it gets wet and you have stained the slabs.

So I get the radio on , find some thing comfortable to sit/kneel on and take my time.Using a small pointing trowel Some of my grouting has lasted ( mothers house) over 25 years , and many power washes.