Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 6/15/2009

Question
I have a concrete deck (sidewalk) surrounding my inground vinyl pool.  Over the years a plumbing leak has eroded soil underneath walk and is causing adjoining brick patio to sink as well.  I have replaced the plumbing, and am ready to finish the patio.  There is about a 3" gap between sidewalk and existing earth which will continue to allow patio base to erode and sink.  I figured I could fill with dirt but that is quite difficult and time consuming. I have found a nice pump http://airplaco.com/handygrout-hg9.asp to pump in replacement filler, but am unsure of what to use.  Any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Mike, a non-shrink, non metallic grout will work.  It can be mixed as thin as you need it and will flow into all areas and is self leveling.  If you are using a professional company with a concrete pump then use a standard 2500 psi grout mix from a concrete redi mix plant.   I hope this information helps, feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com