Should You Be Re-Sanding Your Block Paving?

If you have had block paving installed at home or in the workplace, it’s likely you’ve either got, or had a stunning block paving driveway or footpath in place. Over time, as with anything, its condition, stability or appearance can change, so block paving maintenance must be carried out to ensure the surface remains at its best. One simple yet effective part of block paving maintenance is re-sanding. You should be re-sanding your block paving to prevent weed growth, enhance stability and ensure you get the lifespan you should from your path or driveway.

In this blog, we see how it’s done, when it should be done and why it is so important.

What is block paving?

Block paving is a form of surfacing commonly used on driveways or paths. Sometimes referred to as brick paving, it provides homeowners and businesses with a more decorative surface than what may be found with other common surface materials. Comprised of small blocks rather than large slabs, they are laid in an assortment of patterns and colours to create an appealing surface. With minimal maintenance required, block paving is proving popular in both residential and commercial surfacing.

Why do you need to re-sand block paving?

Each block used on a block paving surface is laid upon a sandy base and is set in place by having the joints filled with sand. Over time, the blocks may start to move as weather conditions, wear and tear and general use start to displace the sand. By re-sanding a block paving surface, you replace the lost sand and restore the area to its best. This then helps to improve its:

• Appearance. With even and sturdy blocks, the surface looks as it should.
• Structure. When you re-sand block paving, the blocks become “locked” into place, stopping them from moving or becoming uneven.
• Weed prevention. As the sand erodes, it becomes easier for weeds to grow, which can then damage the surface. Restricting this growth protects your surface for longer.

What sand should you use for re-sanding block paving?

You can’t just throw any sand on your block paving and assume it works. Some sand is extremely moist, and this won’t fill the joints as you’d like. You are then left with an uneven, unattractive and unstable block paving surface.

Instead, use kiln-dried sand. Its fine composition and distinct lack of moisture make it perfect for filling the gaps and being compacted as much as necessary.

How to re-sand block paving

Before re-sanding your block paving, you need to do some preparation to ensure the best results. In advance, get the correct equipment ready:

• Soft-bristle broom
• Kiln-dried sand
• Plate compactor
• Stiff broom
• Weed killer
• PPE (gloves, goggles, apron)

With all the gear ready for use, you’ll need an optimal day for re-sanding your block paving. You want it to be dry, and not just for an hour or two. Look for a day where dry weather is forecast. Damp surfaces can prevent the sand from filling the joints properly and clump together, making it less effective.

Clean the surface

Prepare the surface by removing furniture, plants and vehicles. Then sweep it to remove any debris. You may notice weeds; remove these with a suitable weed killer and consider some of our tips to prevent weed growth on block paving. Use your stiff brush mixed with a suitable cleaning product to help remove any stubborn marks. Removing oil from block paving can be a little challenging, but our guide may keep things trouble-free.

You can use a pressure washer, but only on a low setting. Set it too high and you could dislodge the sand already in place. You’ll then also have to wait for the surface to dry out again before applying the sand.

Apply the sand

Once your surface is clear and dry, pour the sand over it generously. Ensure the sand is spread evenly over all the joints.

Using your soft-bristle brush, sweep the sand into the joints, working diagonally across the paving. As the sand fills the joints, check that they are all filling evenly. This will help keep the paving stable.

After you’ve brushed it into place, use the plate compactor to ensure all gaps are filled. After compaction, if gaps are still evident or the filling is inconsistent, repeat the process to ensure all joints are suitably filled.

Remove the excess

There will be lots of excess sand scattered across your surface. If all joints are filled, use your brush to sweep away the excess. It may be best to give the surface a thorough check first though. If some areas are filled more than others, you may have a bumpy, unsafe surface. If you spot an inconsistent fill, add more sand to ensure each area is consistently filled with sand.

Seal the surface (optional)

You don’t have to seal your driveway, but it can be beneficial. It adds a further layer of protection and, by keeping the sand in place, reduces the number of times you’ll have to re-sand your block paving. Furthermore, the pesky weeds and moss that are often a nightmare to remove are prevented from growing.

Simply apply a suitable sealant across the dry surface with a sprayer or roller, and once it has dried, your surface will be sealed.

How often should you re-sand block paving?

This will vary. If your block paving surface is sealed, it won’t require sanding as often as an area that has not been sealed. Carry out regular checks on your block paving. If you notice some blocks are getting loose, weeds are growing in the joints, or there are visible gaps between the blocks, it’s worth sanding the surface again. Varying factors such as weather and usage can also determine how often you’ll need to re-sand your block paving.

Can the sand stop being washed out?

Yes, to a point. Using the sand combined with a binding agent and adding a sealant to the surface alongside edge restraints will keep more of the sand in place.

Is it safe to re-sand block paving when it is wet?

It’s safe, but it is not useful for your surface. For effective re-sanding you need the surface to be completely dry. Moisture prevents the sand from filling the joints properly, as it clumps together. This will then mean you have a less effective surface once that sand dries out, as it won’t have filled the joints sufficiently.

How much sand will I need for block paving?

This all depends on the size of the blocks and the area being covered. As a rough guide, you’d need approximately 4.5kg per square metre for 60mm paving blocks.

At Tidey & Webb, we’ve spent many years creating block paving surfaces for commercial and residential surfacing projects. If you would like to convert your driveway, path, patio or any other surface type, get in touch. We are specialists in block paving in Kent, Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire and use our years of experience to deliver affordable, durable, high-quality surfacing repairs and overhauls.