How to replace a cracked paving slab

Tidy up the appearance and improve the safety of your paving slabs by repairing any cracks you find. Read this easy-to-follow DIY guide to see the steps involved.

Level of difficulty

Level 2: Intermediate

What you need

  • Cement
  • Sand
  • Carrying board
  • Putty knife
  • Trowel
  • Vacuum cleaner or broom

The steps to follow

  1. Clean the inside of the crack completely by removing old cracked mortar debris, either using a broom or a vacuum cleaner.
  2. Prepare a mortar mixture (one part cement and five parts sand). Load the mortar mixture onto a carrying board with a trowel.
  3. With a putty knife, fill the cracks with mortar. Pack it tightly into the crack.
  4. Flatten the surface with a trowel.
  5. Finish off by applying a thin coat of mortar to the joint.
  6. Let the mortar set and dry overnight.

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