If you want to sand plaster, you first have to know which sand is ideal. The type of sand and grain size play a role here, as does the width of the joints and the method of application.

In a nutshell

  • simple material for filling joints
  • Amount and grit are key
  • Quartz sand is well suited
  • Sand can be spread under the pavement
  • Layer thickness must be taken into account

Benefits of Sand

Sand fulfills important functions as a filling material for joints and as a base for stones or concrete surfaces. It brings with it several advantages. For example:

  • easy to process and use
  • available in different variants
  • inexpensive to purchase
  • Ensures elasticity and longer lifespan for paving stones
  • numerous uses

What is sanding?

Sanding is known by various terms. Scattering and pasting are just two of them. What is meant by this is the filling of the joints between paving stones, terrace slabs and paving slabs.
The quartz sand is filled into the joints and compacted. This results in the following advantages:

  • surface remains elastic
  • Frost damage is reduced
  • Lifetime of the stones is increased
  • Displacement of the plates is prevented
  • water drainage is given

type of sand

Quartz sand is suitable for filling joints but also as a layer under the paving. This is comparatively coarse and heavy. As a result, it offers a high degree of stability and is also ideal for heavily frequented and heavily used areas.

grain size

However, one of the biggest questions when choosing sand is the grit. That is, the size of the individual grains of sand. Generally suitable are 0.1/1.0 mm up to 0.1/4 mm.
The smaller the grain size, the more sand is required to sand the pavement. However, this means that it can also be applied more densely and is suitable for very small joint widths. The larger the grit level, the better the water can drain between the stones. It is therefore recommended for rainy areas and for a larger joint width.

Joint sand on plaster

Determine joint width

The distance between the individual paving slabs depends on the size of the individual elements. If these are very small, the joints can also be narrow. Joints of two to five millimeters are sufficient up to a side length of 15 centimetres. From 15 centimeters, the distance should be three to eight millimeters.

Notice: Special joint sand is offered or recommended by some panel manufacturers in order to achieve an optimal result. There may also be a reference to the grain size.

Plaster in sand - instructions

If you want to sand plasters, only a few steps are required. The following guide shows how to do it.

  1. Calculate amount: How much material you need depends on the size of the area, the grit of the sand and the width of the joints. 1.4 to about 2.0 kilograms per square meter should be planned in any case. A small excess is recommended, as you can also use this for refilling.
  2. Apply joint sand: Spread the quartz sand over the entire surface so that all stones are evenly covered. This process may have to be repeated several times.
  3. stop off: The joint filler is then swept between the panels with a broom until they are completely filled. More sand is poured in if necessary.
Sweep in sand

frequently asked Questions

Are there alternatives to quartz sand?

Sand is ideal, but can wash out of the grout over time. A corresponding substructure with slope and slabs connected by grout is also possible and more durable. If repairs are necessary, however, more effort is required.

Can quartz sand also be used in the substructure?

Yes, in addition to crushed stone and gravel, it is advisable to spread quartz sand. These layers are compacted to create a stable yet permeable base.

Is quartz sand only suitable for paving slabs and stones?

No, it is also ideal as an underlay and joint filler for other materials. It should only not be used with wood or should be used in conjunction with a stone base. Because the material is permeable, but remains moist for a comparatively long time.

Category:

Garden design