Filling terrace joints »With what and how is it done?

Preparations

In order to permanently prevent weeds from growing, you should clean the joints thoroughly. In the case of extreme moss and the stubborn spread of weeds, it is advisable to first remove the paving stones or slabs from the terrace. Loosen the root weeds with a rake, making sure that no root remains remain in the soil. Robust weeds such as couch grass sprout from such remains after a short time. After cleaning, fill the recesses with sand and relocate the stones.

Grouting materials

When filling joints, you have the choice between fixed and loose grouting. Both variants have advantages and disadvantages.

Paving joint mortar

This material consists of epodid resin and sand. It is used for permanent grouting and creates a so-called drainage joint. This is water-permeable, resistant to frost and de-icing salt and stops weed growth. Mix the joint filling according to the package instructions.

Instructions for filling:

• Spread over the joints and work in with a rubber squeegee
• Stroke diagonally to the joint so as not to sweep the filling out again
• Sweep away excess mortar residue with a soft coconut broom
• Carefully clean terrace tiles
• when it rains, stretch a foil over the floor

The grout will dry after about 24 hours, so you can remove the protection again. The surface is resilient after about seven days. If you want to use the terrace beforehand, it is advisable to proceed in rows.

Weed repellant sand

This material offers a possibility of loose grouting. It is swept into the spaces in between and is not suitable for public but for private terraces due to the slightly lower supporting effect. Quartz sand(€ 14.90 at Amazon *) is a quick and cheap way to fill the joints. It is important that the Joint sand against weeds works.

Another advantage is that broken stones can be replaced quickly. However, the substrate is washed out with a jet of water during cleaning, so you have to sweep the sand regularly.