Swept joint sand (quartz sand) keeps the joints of paving slabs permanently free of weeds. The prerequisite for this is that it is used correctly. In this article you will find out how you should proceed with the application so that unwanted greenery does not appear again within a very short time.
How do I use joint sand against weeds in paving slab joints?
To keep pavement slab joints permanently free of weeds, use swept-over joint sand (quartz sand). First remove the existing weeds, sweep the area and clean the stones. Mix the quartz sand well and sweep it diagonally into the joints. Compact or slurry the sand until all joints are filled.
The ancient Romans already knew the benefits of joint sand
The principle of paving slabs and fine joint sand was already used by the ancient Romans for road construction. Many of their paths are still completely intact today and are hardly overgrown with weeds. Reason enough to take advantage of the advantages in your own garden.
Weed-inhibiting joint sand consists of quartz sand, whose minerals contain hardly any nutrients. In addition, the sand was broken to ensure optimal compaction. As a result, it penetrates deep into even the finest cracks of one millimeter and completely fills the cavities. Even though this special sand is so heavily compacted, it retains its water-permeable properties.
The material has a very high pH value and therefore creates conditions similar to those in the deserts. Weed seeds hardly have a chance of germinating and you no longer have to ask yourself the question: “How do I get weeds out of my paving stone joints permanently?”
How is the sand used?
Before spreading the joint sand, you have to use the joint scraper again (€10.00 on Amazon). Flaming the weeds is not enough as this method leaves roots in the ground. Carefully remove existing greenery so that weeds that have already sprouted do not grow back through the fresh joints.
Continue as follows:
- Sweep everything well.
- Clean stones with the high-pressure cleaner.
- Allow the plaster to dry completely.
- Empty the required sand in the middle of the area.
- Mix well with a shovel.
- Sweep the quartz sand into the cracks with a soft broom diagonally to the joints.
- For larger areas, it makes sense to compact the joint sand using a vibrating plate fitted with a protective mat.
- Alternatively, you can slurry it in with a water jet that is not set too hard.
Repeat the process several times until all joints are completely filled. A spatula should only be able to be pressed into the joint by a few millimeters and then it will be filled optimally.
Make sure that no unwanted depressions are created in which dust and soil could collect. Weed seeds could sprout again in these places. The reward for very precise and thorough work is weed-free joints for years.
Excess joint sand is simply swept away. The next rain shower washes the last remnants off the surface.
How often does this work have to be repeated?
Sand, unlike concrete, does not form a permanent bond with the stones. Over time it is washed away by water and carried away by wind. Small depressions are created in which soil is deposited and provides an optimal breeding ground for weeds. That's why you should regularly get fresh quartz sand every few years.
Tip
This special joint sand is available in different color shades, so that you can give the terrace or courtyard entrance an interesting, contrasting look by re-pointing it.
