Paving + Decking
Step 3: Replacing loose or cracked flagstones
Lever up one end of the slab with a crowbar and roll out of the hole on a length of broom handle.Thoroughly compact and level the surface below, adding extra sand if necessary. If laid on mortar, remove the old lumps and replace with fresh.
Position a good slab back into position, using wooden spacers to ensure even gaps all round.
Tap into place until level. Use a club hammer and piece of wood to cushion the blows.
Step 4: Repairing asphalt
Holes in asphalt can be repaired by using similar techniques, but excavate a clean hole at least 50 mm (2") deep and compact the foundation.Paint the edges with bitumen adhesive and add layers of new asphalt, consolidating each in turn until level with the surface.
Step 5: Repairing steps
If a corner has broken off, try first to refix the broken piece using a cement/PVA mix.Broken edges can be dangerous, so chip away an undercut to make a firm repair.
Fill with a 1:3 sand:cement mix plus PVA, having first painted the surface with dilute PVA.
Use wooden boards supported by bricks to mould a clean edge.
Level with a trowel or float and cover with plastic to keep damp.
When cured, remove supports and smoothen any rough edges.
Leave for a week before use.
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