How to Repair Outdoor Slate Laid on Cement Base Patio
- 1). Remove the grout from around the piece of slate that needs to be replaced with the utility knife. If more than one piece of tile needs to be replaced, cut around the additional tiles as well. Removing the grout breaks the bond with the surrounding slate tiles, making removal much easier.
- 2). Put on the safety glasses. Strike the piece of slate with the hammer somewhere in the center of the tile. If the tile already is cracked you can ignore this process. Use the hammer and chisel to work your way out from the center of the piece, flaking the slate up as you go. Do not start with the outside edge because you could damage the surrounding pieces. Work your way down to the cement underlayment. Completely remove all pieces of slate and old Thin-Set mortar.
- 3). Clean the area of debris. A broom and dustpan can be used, as can a vacuum. Ensure all the old slate, grout and Thin-Set particles have been completely removed before installing the new piece of slate tile.
- 4). Apply an even layer of Thin-Set mortar on the concrete with the notched trowel. Completely cover the entire concrete area, all the way up to the edges of the other pieces. Any voids could lead to potential cracking in the future.
- 5). Install the new piece of slate tile. Press it firmly into the bed of Thin-Set. Move the tile in all directions slightly until it has completely bonded with the Thin-Set mortar beneath. Allow at least 24 hours of drying time before grouting.
- 6). Fill the grout joints with the latex-modified grout. Use the grout float to force the grout into the voids and to clean up any excess. Fill the joints flush with the surrounding tiles.
- 7). Moisten the tile sponge with water. Wring any excess moisture out. Lightly wash the surface of the freshly grouted joint. Smooth the grout between the tiles. Clean up any excess from the face of the tile. Wring the sponge out frequently for better results.
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