Re-sand or cement garden patio?

longwalks1

We're going to pressure wash our rear patio (a basic, sand coloured square paving slab design) and dig out all the muck, moss and grass thats growing in between the slabs. I was thinking re-sand with kiln dried sand as I've read on here previously, but seen a few people elsewhere mention a mix that once swept in, you water and it goes hard as cement. Is this stuff better?


Our patio seems to get dirty very quickly, and will need pressure washing regularly, i thought if it was cemented/grouted it would be easier to pressure wash next time round? (And be less susceptible to grass growing from the joins)


What are peoples opinions?

keith969

Usually a dry cement/sand mix brushed into the cracks works, and will set over time when it's damp - no need to water. But grass etc will always grow in the cracks - you need to apply weedkiller or remove it manually.

FreeBear

keith969 wrote: »

Usually a dry cement/sand mix brushed into the cracks works

But use a fairly weak mix - One part cement to eight, or even ten parts sand mixed very well. It will be easier to rake out if/when you need to dig out the weeds.

longwalks1

Thanks people


And would that still be kiln dried sand to mix with the cement, or normal builders sand?


And, whats the best way to mix sand and cement as i dont have a mixer? Just in a large bucket by hand?

Chrishazle

You might want to look at this stuff :
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Sika-Setting-Sand-Narrow-Joint-Paving-Filler-Jointing-Compound-Buff-20kg/122326050681?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649
or Sika Paving Seal Plus (from B&Q).
Sika also do a sealant for patios or block paved driveways, to inhibit algal etc growth.


Having just had my block paved driveway cleaned with a very high pressure washer I'm waiting delivery of the narrow joint stuff and block paving sealer! A friend used the Paving Fix and recommended it, but it's for joints 5mm or bigger so not suitable for my driveway.

FabFifty

I brush rock salt into the gaps around my patio slabs to help keep down the weeds. Simple and works a treat.

FreeBear

britishboy wrote: »

And, whats the best way to mix sand and cement as i dont have a mixer? Just in a large bucket by hand?

I'd use kiln dried sand and use a cheap paddle mixer from Screwfix or Toolstation. Mix at a fairly low speed until you get an even colour.