Black mortar???

[maf20]

I'm sure there's an easy answer to this. I'll be ready to point up my patio next week and I've read that the best thing to use is 'black' mortar. Sorry, but how do you make it black? And what should the mix be?

 

[breezer]

dye?

 

[stevethebiker]

as suggested readily available colouriser or dye.. your local travis will have it on the shelf 5 to 1 sand to cement should be good, a little sprinkle of the magic powder and a drop of water..

say the spell correctly and elves will appear, do the job in two shakes and make you a cup of tea in the process...



enjoy your weekend !

 

[Trazor]

Black mortar is supposed to enhance the look, Hmmmm, use it only if you are happy with the contrast.

Be careful you do not let the dye get on the edges of your slabs/stone.....

 

[maf20]

Thanks Guys

I got the 5:1 thing, but what sort of sand should be used for pointing? And should it be quite dryish?

Cheers

 

[noseall]

beware using any colour additives. the solidness and longevity of any enhanced mortar is questionable.

also, adding to the paving or repairing in a few seasons time may give you a headache, when trying to colour match.

i subscribe to using locally available building sand products and enjoying the contrast between masonry and mortar.

 

[ModernMaterials]

Sharp sand!

yes dry. just wet enough to make sand castles with but no wetter

you should be able to form sausage shapes in your hand but you dont want it any wetter than that

 

[Thermo]

i always prefer building sand for pointing, much better finish

 

[ModernMaterials]

i always prefer building sand for pointing, much better finish

but its the slightly larger sized pieces of stone in sharp sand that give it its true strength...