Block Paving Cleaning & Re-sanding

Why block paving is treated as a specialism

Conventional sand-jointed block paving is made up of individual units with sand-filled joints. Cleaning lifts surface build-up but also removes loose and contaminated jointing sand — so fresh kiln-dried sand needs to go back into the joints once the paving has dried. That replacement sand is part of the standard block-paving cleaning service, not an optional extra.

Suitable conventional sand-jointed block paving

1. Inspect the paving

   Check the condition of blocks, edges and jointing before starting. Any significant sinking, movement or damaged joints is discussed with you before work proceeds.

2. Match the method

   Use pressure and flat-surface equipment suited to block paving — not a one-pressure-fits-all approach.

3. Clean thoroughly

   Lift moss, algae and general build-up from the block faces and joints.

4. Rinse and clear

   Rinse loose material away and collect debris.

5. Let it dry

   Allow the paving to dry sufficiently before replacement sand goes in — damp joints cannot be re-sanded properly.

6. Re-sand as standard

   Work fresh kiln-dried jointing sand into the joints. This is included in the written quote. If the paving cannot dry on the cleaning day, re-sanding is completed on a separate dry-day return visit at no extra cost.

Where you'll see it on your quote

Block paving work appears under whichever service the paving forms part of — driveway cleaning, patio cleaning or path cleaning. For suitable conventional sand-jointed block paving, your written quotation covers cleaning, replacement kiln-dried sand and re-sanding together.

What re-sanding does and doesn't apply to

Replacement kiln-dried sand only applies to suitable conventional sand-jointed block paving. Permeable block paving uses a specified jointing aggregate rather than ordinary kiln-dried sand. I check the paving type before agreeing the cleaning and joint-replenishment work. It doesn't apply to concrete, tarmac, resin-bound surfacing, porcelain, sandstone slabs, concrete slabs or any paving with fixed pointing.

Honest limitations

• Some staining and weathering may remain after cleaning.
• Sinking, movement or broken blocks cannot be repaired by cleaning.
• Weed regrowth is a normal part of outdoor paving — fresh jointing sand slows it, but it does not permanently prevent it.

Common questions