How Do You Sand Cement Pavers?

To sand cement pavers, you'll need to fill the gaps between the pavers with sand, not sand the surface of the paver itself. Here's how:

Steps to Sand Cement Paver Joints

The process involves spreading gap sand and ensuring it fills the spaces properly.

Prepare the Pavers: Make sure the paver surface is dry and clean. Remove any weeds or debris from the joints.
Spread Gap Sand: Distribute gap sand over the entire paved area.
Work the Sand into Joints: Use a broom to sweep the sand into the gaps between the pavers. This will ensure the sand is adequately filling the spaces.
Compaction: Compact the sand to help it settle firmly in the joints.
- For large areas, use a mechanical compactor.
- For smaller areas, use a rubber mallet.
Remove Excess Sand: After compacting, sweep away any excess sand remaining on the surface of the pavers.

Using gap sand provides several benefits:

Stabilization: It helps to lock the pavers in place, preventing shifting and movement.
Weed Control: By filling the gaps, it makes it harder for weeds to grow.
Drainage: It allows water to drain properly through the gaps.

Type of Sand: Always use gap sand specifically designed for paver joints, not just any sand. Regular sand might not compact properly.
Dry Conditions: Apply sand when the pavers and surrounding area are dry to ensure the sand flows freely into the joints.
Regular Inspection: Check the joints periodically and reapply sand as necessary to maintain stability and proper drainage.

Here is a table summarizing the steps to filling the gaps:

Step	Action	Tool(s)
Preparation	Clean the pavers and joints	Broom, possibly a garden trowel
Application	Spread gap sand over the surface
Filling Joints	Work the sand into the joints	Broom
Compaction	Compact the sand	Compactor or rubber mallet
Cleanup	Sweep excess sand off of the surface	Broom