Taking up a paving slab involves carefully removing it from its current location, often to replace it or access the sub-base.
To take up a paving slab, you typically start by clearing the pointing around it, then lifting and moving the slab safely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing a Paving Slab
Removing a paving slab requires some basic tools and safety precautions. Here's a straightforward process based on the provided reference:
Safety First
Before you begin, ensure you are properly equipped.
- Wear safety goggles: Protect your eyes from flying debris, especially when chipping out pointing.
- Wear heavy-duty gloves: Protect your hands from rough surfaces and potential cuts.
Prepare the Area
The first step is to isolate the slab you want to remove by clearing the material around it.
- Chip out the pointing: Using a plugging chisel and a club hammer, carefully chip out the mortar or pointing material around the edges of the paving slab you wish to remove.
Lift the Slab
Once the pointing is removed, the slab can be lifted.
- Lift the slab: Insert a spade underneath the slab to begin lifting it.
- Protect adjacent slabs: Use a timber off-cut positioned next to the slab you are lifting. This helps protect the edges of the neighbouring slabs from damage as you apply pressure with the spade.
Move the Slab
After lifting, you need to move the heavy slab out of the way.
- Insert a broom handle: Once the slab is slightly lifted, carefully insert a broom handle underneath it.
- Roll the slab out: Use the broom handle to help roll the slab out of its position and move it safely away from the work area.
Following these steps, while prioritizing safety, allows you to effectively remove a paving slab. For more detailed advice on paving repairs, you can refer to resources like the one provided by diy.com.
