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How to Keep Your Pavers Weed Free

Written by Barkman Concrete Published on July 19th, 2017

Choosing to build a driveway, patio, pool deck or walkway with pavers is one of the best long term investments you can make. Pavers don’t crack like poured pads and are easily repaired and re-levelled. However, without occasional maintenance, the look of a paved surface can deteriorate over time.

It is commonly thought that weeds grow up between the joints of two pavers. In truth, weeds and moss actually also grow on top of the pavers themselves or into the joints rather than through them. If dirt or sand is allowed to collect on the paving surface, seeds will eventually take root. Generally, weeds are unable to establish a strong root system and can easily be pulled out. However, with some preventative maintenance, weed growth can be curtailed or even eliminated. Here are some tips:

1) In general, it is always a good idea to broom a paved surface every now and then. Brooming removes any dirt or sand that has accumulated and can even pull out small weeds that haven’t fully developed.

2) If weeds have already established themselves, a herbicide can be used. If using a herbicide is undesirable, boiling water is a good alternative. Just be sure to cut off the top of the plant before application. Vinegar or rubbing alcohol can also be used.

3) A far more comprehensive solution in weed maintenance involves using polymeric sand such as Alliance Polybind Complete to be placed between the joints of the pavers. Polymeric sand features a polymer in the sand that hardens and remains in place more like a mortared joint while retaining the look of a sanded joint. For this reason, weed growth is greatly reduced and insects are forced to find a different home.

A weed-free driveway or backyard certainly helps in making your home beautiful and pristine as you enjoy family time this summer.

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