Using patio joint compound, often referred to as jointing compound or paving joint filler, is a popular way to fill the gaps between paving stones or slabs on a patio. This helps stabilize the paving, prevents weed growth, and improves the overall look. The process typically involves preparation, application, and finishing.
Preparing the Area
Before applying any joint compound, proper preparation is crucial for a successful and long-lasting finish.
- Clean the Joints: Ensure the gaps between your paving slabs are clean and free from debris, dirt, leaves, or old jointing material. Use a brush, jointing knife, or even a pressure washer (carefully) to remove all loose material.
- Wet the Paving: Most modern jointing compounds, especially resin-based ones like the one mentioned in the reference, require the paving area to be wet. Working, when the area is fully soaked, helps prevent the compound from staining the slabs and allows it to flow easily into the joints.
Applying the Joint Compound
Once the area is prepared and wet, you can begin applying the compound.
- Open the Bag: Cut open a bag and pour the easy joint onto the paving.
- Spread the Compound: Use a brush or squeegee to move the compound around the surface and work it into the joints.
- Form a Slurry: As mentioned in the reference, after pouring the dry compound, you should be wetting it to form a slurry which will ease the jointing process. This creates a smooth, workable mix that flows readily into the gaps. Continue adding water as needed to keep the compound wet and slurrified while you work it into the joints.
Here's a breakdown of the application steps based on the reference:
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Fully soak the paving area. | Prevents staining, aids compound flow. |
| Pouring | Cut open a bag and pour the compound onto the paving. | Gets the material onto the work surface. |
| Working Wet | Wet the compound on the paving to form a slurry. | Eases the process, makes compound workable. |
| Filling | Use tools (brush/squeegee) to work slurry into joints. | Ensures joints are completely filled. |
Compacting and Finishing
After the joints are filled, the next steps involve consolidating the material and cleaning the surface.
- Compact the Compound: Ensure the compound is fully compacted into the joints. This can sometimes be done by continuing to sweep the wet slurry over the joints, allowing the water to help settle the material. For deeper joints, you might gently tap the surface or use a jointing tool.
- Clean the Surface: Use a soft brush or broom to carefully sweep away any excess compound from the surface of the paving slabs. Keep the surface wet while doing this to prevent the compound from sticking and leaving a residue. Sweep diagonally across the joints to avoid pulling the compound back out.
- Final Rinse: Once the bulk of the excess is removed, a gentle rinse with water can help clean the slab surface further, pushing fine particles into the joints. Be careful not to wash the compound out of the joints.
Curing
Allow the joint compound to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions. Curing times can vary depending on the type of compound, temperature, and humidity. Avoid walking or placing heavy objects on the patio until the compound has fully set.
Using patio joint compound is a straightforward process that significantly enhances the durability and appearance of your patio.
