Cement path how to.

[caretaker]

I am going to put a small path to my greenhouse, this is what I have.
14 half size paving slabs.
3 bags sand.
1 bag cement.
Now the problem is I am getting on in age 70 and would like to make it a bit easy, I am thinking to mix the sand and cement together then lay it dry on the path area.
Placing slabs on top, then make up a bucket of wet mix and fill between the slabs the next day.
Will this work as I have never done it dry but thinking of my health.
Reg

 

[gregmcateer]

I'm not sure you have enough sand and cement. If you think you have, then start and see how you go.
Important to get the subsoil firm and level, (or with a SLIGHT fall if you want it to drain). If not firm, the slabs will move over time and cause a trip hazard - not recommended at any age!

You can lay straight on sand, (especially if the sides of the path are supported so the sand cannot seep out over time) - if not mix in the cement in a lean mix (say 8 sand to 1 cement), then putting it down dry is fine - get it all levelled up, then when ready to lay the slabs, use a watering can with a rose to dampen the mortar slightly, then lay the slabs carefully along them.

Tamp them gently along several at a time using eg a long plank on its edge, thereby avoiding uneven edges.

Leave to go off for a day or so, then for the pointing, mix up a dry mix of sand and cement, about 3 or 4 sand to 1 cement. dampen it VERY SLIGHTLY so it is like wet demerara sugar, otehrwise it will stain the slabs. Usin a small pointing, or gauging trowel, pack the mix TIGHTLY into the gaps, then press down and pull along using the trowel, giving a smooth finish just shy of the top of the slabs.

This video shows it quite well, though I would use a drier mix to avoid staining;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEM0cwDzMro

Hope that helps,

Greg

 

[caretaker]

Thanks Greg, I had a good look at the video that helped.

 

[Random Orbital Bob]

My patio guy used a totally dry muck mix for the pointing and brushed it in with a soft bristled broom head. He then soft rose watered it once in situ and then pushed it firm and smooth with a piece of hose pipe. You can only do this on a dry day of course but the dry mix completely removed any risk of staining the slabs. Worked really well.