Final Compaction and Joint Filling
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#paverpatio #pavers #backyard #homeimprovement
What happens here
Once all pavers are laid, sweep polymeric sand (or fine joint sand) over the entire patio surface, ensuring it fills all the gaps and joints between the pavers. Use a stiff-bristle broom to work the sand into every crevice. After initially filling the joints, use a vibrating plate compactor (with a protective pad, if using polymeric sand or to prevent marring the paver surface) over the entire patio surface. This process vibrates the sand deep into the joints, helps to settle the pavers firmly into the bedding layer, and ensures an even final surface. After compaction, sweep more polymeric sand into any remaining gaps and repeat the process if necessary. Finally, lightly mist the patio surface with water according to the polymeric sand manufacturer's instructions to activate its binding properties. This creates a strong, durable joint that helps prevent weed growth and insect infestation.
Goal: Compact the laid pavers and fill joints to lock the patio in place and prevent weeds.
Tools and materials
- Broom — Sweeping sand into paver joints and removing excess
- Leaf Blower — Quickly removing any lingering fine dust or sand from paver surfaces before misting
- Plate Compactor — Final compaction of the pavers and settling of joint sand
- Polymeric Sand — Filling paver joints to lock them in place and inhibit weed growth
- Protective Pad — Preventing scuffing or marring of paver surfaces during compaction, especially with decorative pavers
- Water Hose with Misting Nozzle — Activating the polymeric sand