If you’ve got a block paved or concrete patio, you’ll need to have your patio repointed every few years. Just like brickwork on a house, the mortar or other jointing material eventually gets damaged or disintegrates, which can lead to loose blocks or slabs that look unsightly.
Find out how much it costs to get your patio repointed and use our service to find a patio and path specialist to help you with the job.
How much does it cost to have a patio repointed?
Repointing your patio is essential to extend the life of your paving and keep it looking its best. On average, it costs £30 per square metre to have your patio repointed, though it can range from £20-£40 per m2. This price includes the cost of materials and labour, but the final cost can vary depending on several factors.
Factors affecting the cost of patio repointing
How much it costs to have your patio repointed depends on a variety of factors:
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Size of the patio: Larger patios will naturally cost more due to the patio specialist needing more materials and needing longer to complete the job.
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Type of jointing material: The choice of jointing material, such as traditional mortar or modern resin-based compounds, can affect the cost.
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Condition of existing joints: If the existing joints are in poor condition and require extensive cleaning or removal, it will take your paving specialist longer to complete the job, increasing labour costs.
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Your location: If you live in London or the south of England, patio specialist rates are typically much higher than if you live in other parts of the UK.
At HaMuch, we’ve used our database of tradespeople’s hourly and daily rates to estimate how much patio repointing costs in various locations across the UK. Scroll down the page and find your nearest town or city to find a more accurate estimate of how much patio repointing costs in your area.
How do you repoint a patio?
Repointing a patio involves removing the old or damaged mortar from between the paving stones and replacing it with new mortar. Here are the basic steps:
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Remove old mortar: Use a hammer and chisel or an angle grinder to remove the old mortar from the joints, being careful not to damage the paving stones.
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Clean the joints: Remove any debris and dust from the joints using a brush or vacuum cleaner to ensure good adhesion of the new mortar.
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Mix new mortar: Prepare the new mortar mix according to the manufacturer's instructions. For traditional mortar, mix sand and cement in the appropriate ratio.
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Apply new mortar: Use a pointing trowel to apply the new mortar into the joints, pressing it firmly to fill all gaps. If you’re using a dry mix, compact it down with a trowel, and if you’re using resin, fill the joints then use a broom to brush it in.
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Smooth the joints: Smooth the mortar joints using a pointing tool or a piece of wood to achieve a neat finish.
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Clean excess mortar: Wipe away any excess mortar from the surface of the paving stones with a damp sponge before it sets.
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Keep it damp: You don’t want your pointing to dry out too quickly, so mist it with water over the next few days if the pointing materials starts to lighten.
How do you prepare a patio for repointing?
If you want to save money on labour costs when you’re getting your patio repointed, there are a few simple things you can do to prepare the surface for your patio specialist:
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Inspect the patio: Check the entire patio for loose or damaged paving stones, making a note of any you find so you can tell your tradesperson.
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Remove furniture and plants: Clear the patio area of any furniture, plants, or obstacles that might interfere with the work.
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Prepare the surface: Sweep the patio to remove dirt and debris, and use a pressure washer if necessary to thoroughly clean the paving stones and joints. Remove any moss or weeds that will get in your specialist’s way.
The more preparation you do, the less time it will take your patio and path specialist to do the job, saving you money and giving you more time with your freshly-pointed patio!
What is the easiest way to repoint a patio?
The easiest way to repoint a patio is by using a modern jointing compound, which is designed to be easier to apply than traditional mortar.
These compounds are applied to the patio when it’s soaking wet, allowing you to brush the jointing compound into the joints without much effort and without causing staining to your slabs or bricks. This kind of jointing compound sets quickly and provides a durable, weather-resistant finish. However, you’re likely to get a much better result if you use a professional to repoint your patio.
How long does patio pointing take to dry?
How long patio pointing takes to dry depends on the type of mortar or jointing compound used and the weather conditions. Traditional mortar can take 24 to 48 hours to dry sufficiently for light foot traffic, while modern jointing compounds may set within a few hours. Complete curing can take up to 28 days for maximum strength.
How often do you need to repoint a patio?
How often you need to repoint a patio depends on the quality of the initial work, the type of jointing material used and the wear and tear the patio experiences. Generally, a well-maintained patio may need repointing every 10 to 15 years. Regularly inspect and repair damaged joints to extend the life of the pointing.
Is it worth repointing a patio?
Yes, repointing a patio is definitely worth the investment. It helps maintain the structural integrity and appearance of the paving, preventing weed growth and water ingress that can cause damage over time. Repointing extends the life of your patio, making it a cost-effective maintenance task that can enhance the value and enjoyment of your outdoor space.
While not the most exciting things to spend your money on in your garden, it’s certainly an important task to keep your patio looking fabulous for years to come.
Read to get quotes for patio repointing? Post your job on HaMuch now and we’ll put you in touch with patio and path specialists in your area.