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How to Keep Sand From Washing Out of a Concrete Driveway

The sand joints in a concrete paver driveway play an essential role in keeping the pavers in place, protecting the foundation and blocking weeds from encroachment. Over time, sand joints wear away due to weather and normal wear and tear. In addition to replenishing the sand joints every year or two, there are several steps you can take to keep them from washing away as quickly.

Things You'll Need

  • Polymetric sand
  • Medium-bristled broom
  • Rubber mat
  • Hand tamper
  • Hose
  • Concrete sealer
  • Fine-nap roller brush
  • Edge restraints
  • Hammer
  • Lawn spikes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sweep polymetric sand over the concrete pavers with a stiff, medium-bristled broom. Push the sand between the pavers in short, downward strokes. Brush off any excess sand from the surface.

    • 2

      Lay a rubber mat over the driveway to protect the pavers. Tamp the sand down into the joints by pressing a hand tamper over the entire surface.

    • 3

      Sprinkle water lightly over the surface with a hose to weigh the sand down. Keep the water pressure low so you don't wash off the top layer of sand. Wait about 10 minutes for the water to dry moisten it again. The material will cling to the concrete pavers and harden as it dries.

    • 4

      Roll penetrating concrete sealer over the driveway with a fine-nap roller brush. Apply the sealer in straight, even strokes and brush off any drips or puddles. The sealer causes water to bead and run off the surface before it can seep beneath the sand joints. Plan to reapply the sealer after replenishing the sand joints every few years.

    • 5

      Install edge restraints against the sides of the driveway. Dig a trench as wide as the material with a shovel. Pour 3 inches of gravel inside and hammer metal or PVC restraint strips into the ground with lawn spikes. The edging blocks wayward weeds and grass from growing through the edges of the sand joints.