Pointing
Sufficient pointing mix will be included with your delivery free of charge. Pointing mix supplied should be mixed with WHITE CEMENT at the below ratio.
Ratio 1:5 (White Cement : Pointing Mix)
It is very important that only white cement is used, as this gives the correct colour to match the stonework supplied. Follow British Standard recommendations as to the depth of pointing (usually a minimum of 15mm).
Excessive use of water will cause 'bloom', if this occurs, wait until the pointing is dry and rub the joint lightly with fine sandpaper. Avoid rubbing the stone, as this will detract from the appearance. Proprietary water proofers may be used to enhance the properties of the mortar.
Mortar
It is vital that the correct grade of mortar is used when installing cast stone products. It should be noted that mortars used during installation of stonework is often different to that used in surrounding brickwork. Failure to check and ensure correct grade mortar is used can result in cracks appearing in long units due to differential movement. The cracks are usually of little structural significance but are unsightly.
Plain sand and cement mortars are not recommended. Mortars must be able to resist frost and develop durability quickly, however the strongest mortars are not always the best. An overly strong mortar can sometimes concentrate the effect of any differential movement.
Care should be taken when proportioning the material, making allowance for the bulking effect of damp sand, as all properties are by volume. The use of a gauge box is recommended for batching.
Mortars containing lime are recommended as they offer a certain self-healing action. To improve the water repellent quality of the joint in exposed conditions, proprietary water proofers may be added to the mortar. Generally, the mortar should never be stronger than the material it is bedding.
The following ratio is suggested for stonework mortar: 1:1:6 (Cement : Lime : Sand).
