Has your block paving started looking tired, with loose jointing sand, weeds between the blocks or a surface that is difficult to keep clean? At Mend & Maintain, we offer block paving re-sanding and sealing services for homeowners in Consett and surrounding areas. Whether your driveway needs routine maintenance or a more thorough refresh, we can help you explore the right approach for your paving.
Call 07704 738930 or email mendmaintain@gmail.com to tell us about your paving.
Re-sanding and sealing are two maintenance treatments that serve different purposes.
Re-sanding involves replenishing the jointing sand between block pavers. This helps maintain properly filled joints, supports the interlocking action of the paving and reduces gaps where debris and weed seeds can collect.
Sealing involves applying a suitable surface treatment to compatible paving. Depending on the product and paving material, a sealer can help reduce water absorption, make routine cleaning easier and improve resistance to certain stains.
Not every driveway needs sealing. The paving’s condition, material, drainage and previous treatments should all be considered before deciding whether it is appropriate.
Block paving is exposed to vehicle movements, rainfall, dirt and everyday wear. Over time, you may notice:
Missing jointing sand: Visible gaps or low sand levels between paving blocks.
Weed growth: Plants establishing themselves in joints where debris has accumulated.
A dull or dirty appearance: Surface staining, algae or built-up grime affecting the finish.
Uneven paving: Individual blocks becoming loose, sunken or raised.
Frequent cleaning needs: Dirt and stains becoming increasingly difficult to remove.
Some problems can be addressed through cleaning and joint maintenance. Others, particularly sunken or unstable blocks, may require driveway repair work before re-sanding or sealing.
The appropriate method depends on the paving material and its existing condition.
The first step is identifying missing jointing material, surface contamination, damaged blocks and any areas that may need repair. Existing sealants also need consideration because they can affect compatibility with a new treatment.
Where necessary, pressure washing can help remove accumulated dirt, algae and loose debris. Cleaning methods and pressure should suit the paving to avoid unnecessary damage.
The surface must then be allowed to dry sufficiently for the selected jointing or sealing products.
Suitable jointing sand is worked into the gaps between the blocks. For conventional block paving, kiln-dried sand is commonly used, although the correct material depends on the paving system.
Proper joint filling is important for maintaining the surface.
Where sealing is appropriate, the surface needs to meet the product manufacturer's requirements for cleanliness, dryness and application conditions.
The selected finish should suit the paving and the homeowner's preferences. Sealing should not be used to disguise structural defects or drainage problems.
Routine block paving maintenance can help protect the appearance and usability of an existing driveway.
Results depend on the paving’s age, condition, construction and exposure. Sealing does not make paving maintenance-free or permanently prevent weeds.
If your paving is generally level and structurally sound, replenishing the joints and addressing surface contamination may be more appropriate than replacing the entire driveway.
However, extensive sinking, persistent movement, failed edging or underlying drainage problems cannot be corrected by sand or sealant alone.
We can discuss whether maintenance or driveway repairs would be the more sensible next step.
Mend & Maintain is based in Consett and provides landscaping and paving services across County Durham and Tyne & Wear, including:
Contact us to discuss your location and the work required.
There is no fixed schedule for every driveway. Jointing sand can be lost through weathering, cleaning and general use. If the joints are visibly depleted, they may need replenishing. Regular inspections can help identify when maintenance is necessary.
No. Re-sanding and sealing are separate treatments. Sealing may offer additional surface protection on compatible paving, but it is not always necessary or suitable. The decision depends on the paving material, condition and desired finish.
Sealing may help reduce some conditions that encourage weed growth, depending on the system used, but it cannot guarantee a weed-free driveway. Windblown seeds, accumulated debris and deteriorating joints can still allow weeds to establish.
Yes, conventional block paving often needs jointing sand replenished after pressure washing, particularly if cleaning has removed existing sand. The joints should be sufficiently clean and dry before suitable replacement sand is applied.
The cost depends on the paved area, existing condition, preparation requirements, jointing material and whether sealing is suitable. Paving that needs repairs or extensive cleaning may require additional work. Contact us with details of your driveway for a quotation.
A driveway does not always need replacing to look better and function well. If your block paving has lost jointing sand, become difficult to maintain or needs attention after cleaning, Mend & Maintain can help you explore the available options for block paving re-sanding and sealing in Consett and surrounding areas. Tell us about your driveway, its condition and what you would like to improve.
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