CECCO Construction repairs worn, cracked, and deteriorated flagstone patios and walkways throughout Northern Virginia using a careful restoration process designed to preserve as much of the original stonework as possible. In many cases, the flagstone itself is still in good condition, while the mortar joints between the stones have deteriorated because of age, moisture, settlement, or repeated freeze-thaw cycles.The repair process begins by cutting out the old, loose, and failing mortar joints with an angle grinder equipped for masonry work. The joints need to be opened thoroughly enough to remove deteriorated material and create a clean surface for the new mortar to bond properly. Simply covering damaged joints with a thin layer of new mortar will not provide a lasting repair.Once the old joints have been completely cleaned out, CECCO Construction prepares a fresh mortar mixture using Portland cement, sand, and water in the proper proportions for the application. Any loose, cracked, or broken pieces of flagstone are repaired, reset, or replaced as needed before the joints are filled.The new mortar is then carefully installed using a grout bag so it can be placed deeply and evenly into the open joints. After the mortar begins to hydrate and reach the proper consistency, the joints are tooled and finished to create a clean, uniform appearance that complements the existing flagstone.After the mortar has properly set, the patio or walkway receives a thorough cleaning. Where appropriate, an acid wash can be used carefully to remove mortar haze, residue, and construction staining from the surface of the stone.The result is a restored flagstone patio or walkway with repaired joints, stabilized stone, and a much cleaner appearance. For homeowners throughout Northern Virginia, professional flagstone repair can often extend the life of an existing patio or walkway without the expense of completely removing and rebuilding it.