Sika Ready mixed Paving joint repair grout, 15kg Tub

This product sounds easy to use however, after I applied this to an expensive patio I found that I had a white residue on the top on my patio which I though would disappear after the product had been watered in. To my amazement the white residue is still there even after a further two session of jet washing. I took the product back to B&Q local store who were very cooperative and passed a full refund for the purchase, they also contacted the manufacturer to report the issue, they asked that I send picture of the staining so they could recommend some type of cleaner to remove the stains, sadly this is there reply.

Good morning,

We are sorry to hear of your disappointment in this instance with the application of the Sika Setting Sand product.

The Sika Setting Sand product is made up of a dry mix of polymer, cement and sand. When the issue of staining occurs the polymer has attached itself to the paving either by the paving being damp before application or excess product being left on the paving during the wetting process. As the polymer is actively seeking moisture to cure, if the blocks are damp in the slightest, the polymer will bond to them. If the slabs were damp before application the staining will be more visible in the area where the job was started as by the end of the application, most of the polymer will have attached itself to the substrate while being brushed.

From the photos received we are aware of the polymer being visible in the crevices and voids of the paving surface, hence we do state on the products packaging:
Under PREPARATION
Ensure all joints and paving surface are completely dry and free from dirt.
Under APPLICATION
Sweep up all excess material, as it can be difficult to remove once set.
Under LIMITATIONS
Any product left on the surface prior to watering will be difficult to remove without damaging joints.

Unfortunately if this is the issue there is no known manufactured product to remove the polymer but it will hopefully weather over time, we would not advise using any acid based product to aid removal. The possibility of a 50/50 mixture of very hot water and household vinegar may aid removal but we would always advise a small test in an inconspicuous area. Please be aware this may impact on the joints also.

We can understand your frustrations and although not fully solving your issue hope the above clarifies the problem you have had. We would like to thank you for bringing this matter to our attention and should you have any further queries please do not hesitate to contact ourselves.

It reads perfect but doe,s not do what it says on the box!!! Because it’s gray not buff? It makes a right mess on the slabs almost impossible to clean,

Brilliant easy to use and economical - does what it says on the label

Fixed gaps between slabs perfectly. Needed 2nd tub but gaps were deep. Would recommend. B&Q best price.

I bought this product believing it would be buff coloured it turned out grey even though the tub had buff on the front .My belief was that it would st hard and it hasn't.Vert dissapointing