Mortar in crazy paving

[chantalandchris]

I have a problem with crazy paving driveway which needs TLC. We had quotes for asphalt that are prohibitive: £8,000s for about 80 square metres. We are looking at repairing it ourselves and found this DIYnot webpage. Have you been able to do something with yours? We also are looking at special paints after the grouting is finished. Your advice would be very welcome. Chris and Chantal

 

[Mike13]

If you choose the right sand you can often get the mortar to be the colour you want.

Fine Sands | Cornish Lime

Explore our wide range of fine & superfine sands. Available in a variety of colours & textures for specific finishes for lime mortars, renders & plasters.

cornishlime.co.uk

I am sure there are other companies to consider, the more you go to 3:1 the greyer it will get.
This company seems to have a better range of sands than you find in the sheds, there are also pigments available to make the mortar just right. Dry mix in a larger bag so that you have enough for the whole job, then make enough for each section as you go be sure to get all the loose stuff out from between the stone. Also make sure that they are all firmly bedded in before you start, a few might need to be relaid.
Also consider the strength of the existing stone pieces, a 3:1 mortar might be so strong that later movement breaks the stone.
adding some hydraulic lime to the mix makes it whiter. Usually a mistake to use quicklime from most sheds as it is often so old it does not go off properly and just makes the mix weak.