How to Repair a Slate Patio
Even though a slate patio does not usually require much maintenance, it will eventually need some type of repairs no matter how well it has been laid out or how well it has been looked after. An amazing advantage of slate is that it is extremely easy to repair and can be done within a few hours.
Materials needed:
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Knife
- Thin-set mortar
- Trowel
- Grout
- Grout float
- Sponge
- Remove the grout around the damaged tile. Before removing the tile that is damaged, you need to get rid of the grout in the seams surrounding the tile. A utility knife is the easiest way to do this. This step has to be done in order to continue the process.
- Remove the damaged tile. To remove the tile, you will need to break it up into pieces. Hit around the middle of the tile with a hammer to crush it. If the tile is already in pieces, this process will not be necessary. Remove each piece of slate using a chisel to push it up. Work from the center to the outer edges. While working on the edges, be very careful so you do not damage the tiles surrounding the damaged one. Make sure to remove the old mortar as well as all the pieces of the old tile. Before adding a new tile, make sure that the surface is level.
- Place new slate tile. Add an even layer of mortar in the space before adding the new tile. Make sure that the mortar covers the surface so you will be less likely to have cracks in the future. Put the new tile in place and make sure that it is level with the others. Leave the tile to set overnight before applying the grout. The next day, seal the seams between the tiles with grout. Make sure that the grout is evenly distributed throughout the gaps. Use a sponge to wipe off any unnecessary grout on the surface of the tiles. Let sit for at least 12 hours.