What to Put Down Between Patio Stones for Sidewalks?

Sand

• Sand, the traditional material to put between patio stones, is a smart choice when placing the stones close together with only a tiny gap. The sand is able to easily slip into the cracks and settle into place, preventing the stones from shifting. To fill in between with sand, simply pour sand over the laid pavers and sweep it back and forth until all the gaps are filled.

Mortar

• Another traditional material to use between patio stones, mortar bonds the pavers together. Mortar only works when the patio stones are on a base that is sure not to settle or shift. For this reason, you need to use a concrete base or tightly packed gravel base underneath. Mortar is for small gaps of 1/4 to 1/2 inch and is generally applied in one of two ways. You may either spread the mortar on the sides of the stones as you place them, or set the stones in place and fill in the gaps with the aid of a mortar bag. A mortar bag works in the same way as a cake icing bag, where you pipe the mortar into the cracks between the stones, and then smooth them down with a jointer.

Stones, Shells and Glass

• Smaller stones fit well in larger gaps between patio stones. The larger stones are set further apart, leaving gaps several inches wide, which are filled with the stones. You can choose a similar type of rock that blends in, creating a more solid-looking walkway, or add contrasting color or texture. Even tiny gravel is sometimes used as the fill in for a contrast that is a little less expensive than polished stones or river rock. Crushed seashells fill in well if your yard has a coastal theme, while crushed or polished glass fit in with a more modern look.

Moss or Grass

• You'll need to have soil between the stones if you want to add moss or grass. Packing the soil into place is not complicated, but sometimes growing the moss or grass is. Conditions have to just right for either to grow, with shade being necessary for moss, and at least partial sun helpful for grass. You can speed moss growth along by finding sections of it growing elsewhere in your yard, and placing it on the soil in the gaps, similar to how you would add sod to a yard.