Re-Jointing Paver Stones: What It Means & How It Works

We’d like to share with you some critical info about your paver stones. Did you know that paver stone steps, paver stone pool decks, driveway pavers, patio paver stones, and walkway pavers all have joints?

Paver joints are the interlocking installations between each paver stone filled with joint sand. This joint sand is critical in keeping the stones together and shifting when put under pressure. It is also necessary for preventing water from seeping underneath your pavers and stopping the growth of weeds, along with bugs and pests.

If not properly cleaned on a regular basis and maintained with sealant, these joints will wear out and break apart. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you. We’ll share with you the information you need in regards to paver stone joints.

Inspecting Paver Stone Joints And Preparation To Re-Joint

First, set aside some time to inspect your paver stones. One of the first things you’ll notice when your paver stone joints are wearing down are the appearance of weeds. If you don’t notice any weeds yet, look closely for any cracks that are forming between your paver stones. And if you waited too long to re-joint your paver stones, you’ll notice an army of weeks.

Next, you’ll want to identify what your previous joints were made from. Many older laid paver joints used mortar. If this is the case, it will require a more involved process needing tools such as a patio knife, a hammer, and bolster a grinder, or even a mortar raking blade. If this is out of your comfort zone, then we recommend giving us a call and seeking professional help. As The Paver Company of Sacramento, we’re highly experienced and work within the Granite Bay, El Dorado Hills, Folsom, Sacramento, and Roseville areas.

One last thing to check for before doing your own work is to make sure the paver stones are still stable and properly bedded. There’s no point in re-jointing your paver stones if they are loose or the bedding is compromised.

Finally, we recommend you gather the following tools:

Push broom
Water hose that’s long enough for all the pavers
Pistol hose grip with shower nozzle setting
Leaf blower
Light duty pressure washer
Hand tamper
Small vibratory plate compactor with a rubber pad
High-quality jointing sand and water

The Paver Stone Rejointing Process

Once you’ve done your research and gathered all the tools and materials, you can perform the re-jointing procedure.

Remove existing jointing material and debris. Let it dry.
Arrange and place your bags of jointing sand around the pavers so you don’t have to carry them around later.
Spread the jointing sand onto the paver area using the broom
Use the hand tamper to get into the borders and a plate compactor on the main paver field to compact the sand tightly into the joints, between paver stones. Run the compactor over the area only one time. Be careful not to cause structural damage to hoses, concrete curbing, retaining walls, or other nearby objects.
Once the sand settles, check to top off any areas that might still need to be filled evenly.
Use the blower to remove excess sand.
Activate the jointing sand with water from your pistol grip shower nozzle and hose. Be careful to stay away from electrical outlets, devices, and other possible hazards.
Use the blower to remove excess water.

Congratulations! Now that you’re all done, make sure to check out our helpful articles on cleaning and maintaining your paver stones.

Need a professional to re-joint your paver stone patio or walkway? Give us a call today!