Learn top tips on how to re-sand block paving? The most commonly used pavers for driveways, patios and walkways are block pavers owing to their strength and the appearance they provide.
While, eventually, the sand between the joints of block paving can erode, causing it to lose stability and look bad.
Re-sanding block paving is an important job you should carry out to maintain the structural integrity and back the visual appeal. In this guide, I will take you through this step by step. We will discuss about how to re-send your outdoor porcelain paving or paving of driveways.
What is Block Paving and Why Re-Sanding is Important?
The individual bricks or blocks used in block paving sand are laid on a bed of sand to be locked in together by filling the joints with sand. With time and cleaning, and normal wear, weather conditions eroded the sand away. Re-sanding is important for several reasons:
- Structural Integrity: Pavers are bound together by the sand between the joints and will not shift or become uneven.
- Weed and Moss Prevention: Well filled joints prevent weeds and moss growing, which can cause damage to the paving.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Paving done properly provides for the overall look of your outdoor space.
Understanding the Right Sand
The type of sand matters when you re sand, and if you don’t use the right one, your stones will not look as beautiful once you decide to wash them.
Kiln-Dried Sand
This is the type of sand recommended for such block paving. It is easily workable, completely dry and forms a fine grained material that flows easily into the joints and compacts well. This kind of sand allows for no gaps and makes the firm a lasting one.
Avoid Unsuitable Alternatives
Sand that is too moist tends to clump, and if that happens, it will not fill the joints properly. The sharp sand or builder’s sand may not compact well and will tend to erode more quickly and create a destabilized bank.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you start, gather the following:
- Kiln-dried sand
- Soft-bristled brush
- Plate compactor (Not necessary, but advisable for larger sections of the area)
- Broom
- Apron, gloves and goggles (if you are applying sealant)
- Weed remover (if needed)
How to Re-Sand Block Paving Step by Step Guide
1. Preparation
The key to successful re-sanding is preparation. Follow these steps to get the paving ready:
Clear the Area
Remove any furniture, plants, or anything else off the paving to give you full access to the surface.
Weed Removal
Pull out any weeds or moss using a weed remover or use a chemical solution. Pay extra attention to deep rooted growth so they don't grow back.
Cleaning the Paving
Remove leaves and debris from the yard. Sometimes it’s good to have to lightly scrub some of the built up grime with a pressure washer for a deeper clean. Moisture will prevent the sand from settling correctly, so leave the paving to dry completely before moving to the next step.
2. Applying the Sand
Once the area is prepared, it’s time to re-sand the joints:
Distribute the Sand
Once the paving surface is poured generously with kiln dried sand. Evenly spread it over all joints.
Brush Into Joints
Sweep the sand into the joints with a soft bristled brush. Next, work diagonally across the paving towards filling the gaps with sand and make sure they all fill evenly.
Compact the Sand
Use a plate compactor to settle the sand in the joints, for greater stability. Compacting causes the sand to be pressed tightly together, and keeps it from pouring down the sides in the future. Keep repeating the brushing and compacting process, until all joints are properly filled.
3. Finishing Touches
Complete the process by focusing on these finishing steps:
Remove Excess Sand
Remove any remaining loose sand sheen off surface to not get blown away or washed away.
Inspect the Joints
Check all joints and make sure they are filled and compacted uniformly. Repeat the compacting process if you need to and add more sand to any gaps.
Optional: Applying a Sealant
Although not mandatory for re-sanding block paving, sealing after re–sanding bestows an added protection and increases longevity.
Benefits of Sealing:
- Locks sand in place so we don't have to re sand as often.
- The paving is shielded against stains weathering and UV damage.
- Prevents weed and moss from growing on the joints for less maintenance.
Steps to Apply Sealant:
- Before applying the sealant, be sure to check the paving and its joints are completely dry.
- The sealant is then applied across the paving evenly using a sprayer or roller.
- Dry time will depend on product manufacturer’s instructions, and do not use the area until the sealant has fully cured.
Maintenance Tips for Block Paving Sand
To keep your block paving in excellent condition, incorporate these maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspections: Check your block paving occasionally for sand loss; especially after heavy cleaning or severe weather.
- Gentle Cleaning: Sand erosion is minimized by avoiding use of high pressure washers that may directly wash on the joints.
- Reapply Sand When Needed: Re sand every 1-2 years or as required to prevent settling.
Things to Avoid When Re-Sanding Block Paving
Avoid these common errors to ensure the best results:
- Using Moist or Unsuitable Sand: Use only kiln-dried sand to be filled and compacted properly.
- Skipping Compaction: This is an important step for long term stability of the paving or it may shift or sink.
- Leaving Excess Sand: Excess sand can tend to look messy and easily blown away.
Conclusion
It’s a very simple thing to learn how to re sand block paving, but an essential one in ensuring it lasts as long as possible and continues to look good (and work well). You can maintain your block paving stable, weed free and look good for years to come if you simply follow this guide’s detailed steps and use the appropriate materials. Regular maintenance and maintenance not only prolong the lifetime of your paving but also keep money taken from further repairs and maintenance.
Should you additionally be dealing with paving slabs, knowing How to Grout Paving Slabs might also be rather helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What sand for block paving?
Kiln dried sand would be the best choice for re-sanding block paving. The fine sand is dried in a kiln removing moisture so that it packs tightly into the joints between the blocks. Joints can also be treated with polymeric sand in order to prevent weeds and to increase durability.
2. Can I use regular sand instead of kiln-dried sand?
No! Regular sand clumps when it is wet and doesn’t compact correctly. Sand that is kiln dried is completely dry and fine grained, and is therefore the best sand to re sand with.
3. Can I pressure wash my block paving after re-sanding?
Don’t pressure wash right after re sanding. Until the sand has settled, wait a while and consider possible gentler cleaning techniques that will not erode.
4. How much kiln dried sand for block paving?
For 50mm blocks you will need about 3.3 kg per square meter, 4.5 kg for 60mm blocks, and 5.7 kg for 80mm blocks of kiln dried sand. For a 60 square meter area, about 6 bags of a 25kg bag enough to cover 8 to 10 square meters would go well.
5. How to stop sand washing out of block paving?
The use of jointing sand with a binding agent, the application of a paving sealant and the installation of edge restraints will prevent sand washing out of block paving. High pressure wash as little as possible and refill the sand as needed.
6. Can I mix different types of sand for block paving?
Yes, you can mix between different types of sand for a base when block paving when using sharp sand for this and kiln-dried for the joints. Only use polymeric sand alone, never mix different kinds together.
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