Paver Sand for Joints: Which Sand is Ideal?
Swept joint sand (quartz sand) keeps the joints of sidewalk slabs permanently weed-free. The prerequisite for this is that it is applied correctly. In this article, you will learn how to apply it so that unwanted greenery does not spread again within a very short time.
Advantages of sand
As a filling material of joints and as a base of stones or concreted surfaces, sand fulfills important functions. In this regard, it brings several advantages. Among them, for example:
- easy to process and use
- available in different variants
- inexpensive to purchase
- ensures elasticity and longer service life for paving stones
- numerous applications
What is sanding?
Sanding is known by various terms. Scattering and grouting are only two of them. This refers to filling the joints between paving stones, patio slabs and sidewalk tiles.
The quartz sand is filled into the joints and compacted. This results in the following advantages:
- Surface remains elastic
- Frost damage is reduced
- The lifetime of the stones is increased
- Shifting of the slabs is prevented
- Water drainage is given
Art des sandes
Quartz sand is suitable for filling joints, but also as a layer under the pavement. This is comparatively coarse and heavy. This gives it a high degree of stability and makes it ideal for more heavily trafficked and stressed areas.
Properly apply joint sand
- The pavers must be laid on a firm, solid, drainable substrate
- Apply joint sand only when the ground (pavers tops and joints) is completely dry
- Spread joint sand evenly into the joints, sweep the sand straight and diagonally into the joints
- Use a soft broom to remove excess joint sand
- Use the vibrating plate to work the joint sand deeper into the joints and remove hidden voids
- Dust the paved surface again with joint sand and sweep the sand into the joints (fill up any voids).
- In the second work step, use the vibratory plate to compact and consolidate the sand joints
- Practical tip: The joint sand is sufficiently consolidated when you can press a painter’s trowel into the sand to a maximum depth of 0.08 in!
How often does this work need to be repeated?
Unlike concrete, sand does not form a firm bond with the stones. Over time, it is washed away by water and carried away by the wind. Small depressions are created in which soil is deposited and provides an ideal breeding ground for weeds. Therefore, you should regularly sweep in fresh quartz sand at intervals of a few years.
