Filling Gaps between Stone Pavers

Hi!
Just wanted to get some thoughts on what you guys think it's suitable in this case.

I was cleaning our backyard a bit more closely these days and noticed the (apologies for any innacurate terminology) stone pavers seem to be missing something to fill the gaps between the pieces?
Here is a photo: https://imgur.com/a/gOu9uCB

My concern is that water could be infiltrating under the surface, causing problemns in the long term - maybe I should seal it? Apply some grout?
Really not sure as you can see … hoping to borrow some knowledge from my fellow OzBargainers. :)

Cheers!

Comments

  • How To Seal Outdoor Pavers - D.I.Y. At Bunnings Warehouse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Z_oi_Rt924

  • +4

    Quick set sand and cement/rapid set sand and cement etc. 20kg bag if its a big job. Pour on, brush in with broom, lightly spray with water. Done.

  • +2

    I would not use anything that will seal the gaps as this will cause more troubles. Normally the gaps are filled with crusher dust that hardens. Go to a place that sells sand and other stuff like https://www.soilnstuff.com.au/ and ask them for some product to fill the gaps.

    Also ask them if you should seal the concrete pavers, but normally this is done when you put them down as doing it now will seal the color and grime and stains in.

  • +6

    You want this. https://www.bunnings.com.au/dingo-20kg-powerloc-paving-sand_…

    Designed for your type of situation exactly.

    • +1

      I've used this stuff and IMO it's rubbish. Washes out and is in no way weed resistant as claimed. May as well just use normal sand for 1/3 the price. Normal mix of sand and cement if you want something longer lasting.

      • I used it and was happy with the results, but power washing the pavers blasts out anything in the joints. Obviously, your experience was different. I'm about to reapply some have power washed again recently. My pavers have a slightly angled side, meaning the joints are about 10mm on the top side whilst touching on the lower edge. Perhaps Paver lock is suited to that style of joint. YMMV.

        • Mine's washed out just from rain. It might be OK on stuff that's under cover.

  • Lovely, thanks everyone, super appreciated!

  • It looks like the gaps between your pavers are missing joint fillers. This could let water seep through, leading to the growth of weeds or they can even shift over time. To fit it, you can brush in polymeric sand or grout specifically made for outdoor pavers. This locks everything in its place and also helps in reducing water getting underneath. After that, applying a stone sealer is a great idea as it will protect the surface and extend the life of the pavers. It's a simple DIY weekend job and will really help you in the long run.

  • Depending on whether you have a reactive soil or not, the gaps between pavers may increase or decrease during the year. Wet year the gaps shrink due to expanding soil, and dry years the gaps increase.
    I do not recommend having a more permanent pavement by laying concrete over all of the area. One never knows whether there will be a problem with drainage, or cracked pipes underneath in the future. If this happens it is easy to lift the pavers and repair. With a concrete overlay you will need to jack hammer the site to find the problem and repair.

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