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Need to point up a new patio but it seems that temperature is dropping below 3 degrees every day and client wants job done! What's the best way to protect work from frost or is there a product I can use in sub zero conditions? Thanks

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  • We use easy joint compound. Just recently converted from traditional pointing. It is expensive but v's time and having to wait on weather conditions it save money and any hassle/stress!
    I don't think it looks as good as traditional pointing but believe it will last a lot longer.
    Method is to wet paving, brush compound in and wet again repeat until happy with finish. I prefer to wet it in the box and hand apply almost like pointing just as quick, better finish and you don't waste as much of the product as brushing and hosing.

    There's lots of different types just google jointing compound and choose the one that's right for you.
    • We're obviously not as cold here in Glasgow, for once! We test this it at zero and it has the same results. Recommended is 3 I think always best to check instructions. I have seen us using a blow torch to manipulate some work, needs must!!!!
  • PRO
    Hi Sam
    We are in the same position with a commercial scheme in Maidenhead, I'm seriously considering pulling off site for the first part of the week because of the constant low temperatures.

    If your paving is already down the easyjoint website gives instructions on how to use there product in these weather conditions.

    "http://easyjoint.eu/documents/EASYJointFullInstructions.PDF

    You have to use it dry and I think there is a chence of staining the paving, but it can be done if the customer is really desperate for you to finish.
    If it were me I would explain the issues of working in these low temperatures and return later in the week when the weather is forcast to be better.

    Good luck

    John
    • The easy joint we use slogan is ";wetter the better" and not had issue with staining, probably covering there selfs.

      The problem with leaving it unpointed for any length of time is people walking on it. Although you ask them not to it always happens. Then if the weather is as cold as it's is for you guys, frost getting to it. All leading to more work on your return.

      When the weather allows I would point but this is a great solution for poor weather time etc. Good luck!!!

  • PRO

    Always bear in mind that if a client is putting you under pressure to get something done against your better (and professional) judgement, you should write a note (not verbal) explaining any potential problems that may occur.

    Make sure you get a response - even better a signature - if the client asks you to do something that has the potential to lead to problems later on.

  • ask the client how much they want to pay you to come back in the summer and redo it when its started to crumble. we have one that is wrapped up in about 5 layers of hessian, fleece and dpm. told the client we are not risking doing it. The client may be paying the boll, but they are paying for your expertise and sometimes they need strong advice. You cant beat mother nature. sometimes the only way is to wait it out

    i also have a clause in my terms and conditions stating that a small retention can be held if we cant finish pointing due to bad weather. it means you are not waiting for a large chunk of money when youve done 97% of the job. pretty crucial at this time of year

  • Some very helpful responses, thank you all so much! Particularly like Thermo's idea of the retention - I have always found good communication to be key but sometimes, you just need to have some small print :)

    • works well. most people are very understanding and would much prefer you put the work off till the conditions are favourable to do the job properly rather than trying to get it done just to get the money in.

  • I remember a lot of years ago the firm I was working for had a government contract with a clerk of works and he would not let any paving or walling to be built unless the temperature was 5 degrees and rising and stop and covered up with insulating covers as soon as it dropped back to 5 degrees. A lot of the  subbie brickies walked off the job it was that bad a big headache for the firm   

  • Thanks for the input guys - I waited until the following weekend when a stable 5degrees + was forecast and used Sika pavefix plus. It's set beautifully and client is over the moon!
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