Slate Tile Over Concrete Patio
Please Help!
I've decided to place Slate Tile over my existing concrete patio.
Grooves have been designed into the patio for a decorative effect as well as to allow for expansion.
Originally, I had planned to fill in the grooved areas with a patching compound to level the surface and lay the tile over as necessary.
I have now read elsewhere that I must respect these "expansion joints" and NOT tile over them and thus integrating them into the design. I would would take a heck of a lot more effort but I suppose I can do this.
However, I still must fill in the space with some sort of material such as grout in order to have a functional patio. I live in San Diego so we are subject to a rather temperate climate.
What is the best method to deal with this situation? Is there more preferred compound to use in these "joints" in lieu of grout?
Ultimately I am not beyond replacing the tiles if they crack.