How to Patch a Flagstone Patio
Even though flagstone patios are strong and long-lasting, over time weather--as well as consistent foot traffic--can cause areas in the mortar around your flagstone bricks to deteriorate, crack or crumble. Periodic maintenance and patching of the mortar is necessary to ensure the longevity and help restore the appearance of your patio. Patching mortar should be done on cooler days where sun and heat won't cause the new mortar to cure too quickly. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Portland cement
- Sand
- Chisel
- Grouting bag
- Hammer
- Trowel
- Putty knife
- Jointer
- Rags
Instructions
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Purchase or collect a type of sand for your mortar patching mix that matches the color of the current grouting of your patio. The color of the grouting is a result of the color of the sand used and the patching mix needs to blend in with the current grouting. The sand in your current grouting could be dark gray, light gray or reddish brown.
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Clean your patio by sweeping off debris and thoroughly spraying it down with a high-pressure hose sprayer.
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Chisel out cracked, crumbling or damaged areas with a hammer and chisel so that you have a clean inlet for inserting new mortar into. Brush away loose particles left from chiseling.
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4
Mix two parts sand to one part Portland cement to create a patching mix. Use enough water to create a thick, toothpaste-like consistency.
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Lightly spray the areas to be patched. Apply new mortar into chiseled areas with a grouting bag, which works much like a cake icing bag. Squeeze the patching mix through the grouting bag's tip and be careful to keep it in between the bricks.
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Allow the newly applied mortar to dry slightly. Let it dry enough so that when you scrape it down it won't smear all over adjacent bricks. This should not take more than 20 minutes.
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Use a putty knife, triangular trowel and/or a jointer to work the mortar into the chiseled gap and to level it even with the bricks. Wipe off any grout that gets onto the brick with a damp rag.
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Keep the patched areas damp for two to three days while it cures. Do not allow people to walk on the patched areas during this time. Cover the areas with plastic sheeting held down by rocks or bricks to help keep people off and to retain moisture.
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