Can I Use Cement Between Pavers?

Many homeowners wonder if cement between pavers is viable for creating durable and attractive pathways or patios.

Without the right materials and techniques, the space between pavers can become a breeding ground for weeds and cause shifting and cracking, leading to unsightly and unstable surfaces.

This article explores the feasibility of using cement between pavers, highlighting the pros, cons, and best practices to ensure a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result.

Can I Use Cement Between Pavers?

Yes, you can use cement between pavers, primarily as a mortar or a binding agent to prevent shifting and increase durability. However, using the right mixture and application technique is crucial to avoid cracking. For areas with heavy rainfall or freeze-thaw cycles, consider using sand or polymeric sand for better flexibility and drainage.

Understanding Cement as a Joint Filler

Cement is often considered a joint filler in paving projects due to its strength and durability. 

When used between pavers, cement, typically in the form of mortar, locks the stones in place, preventing them from shifting underfoot or due to environmental conditions. This is particularly important in areas subjected to heavy traffic or load-bearing activities.

The composition of the cement used for pavers is crucial. Mortar is commonly used as a mixture of cement, sand, and water. 

The typical ratio for a strong mortar mix is one part cement to three parts sand. This ratio ensures sufficient bonding without becoming too rigid, minimising the risk of cracking due to minor movements or temperature changes.

However, it’s essential to recognise the limitations of using cement as a joint filler. In climates with significant freeze-thaw cycles, cement can crack as moisture seeps in and expands when frozen. 

Furthermore, cement does not allow for much flexibility or drainage, which can lead to water damage or erosion under the pavers over time.

Pros of Using Cement Between Pavers

Using cement between pavers offers several advantages, making it a popular choice for residential and commercial paving projects. Here are the key benefits:

• Structural Integrity: Cement provides a strong bond that holds pavers tightly together, reducing the likelihood of shifting or sinking over time. This is particularly important in driveways or pathways that endure heavy traffic.
• Weed and Pest Barrier: One of the most significant advantages of using cement as a joint filler is its effectiveness in preventing weed growth and deterring pests. The solid barrier formed by cement leaves no space for weeds to sprout and discourages ants and insects from burrowing between pavers.
• Low Maintenance: Once cured, cement joints create a permanent bond that doesn’t need replenishment. Unlike sand-filled joints that may wash away over time, cement remains stable, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
• Aesthetics: Cement can be blended with colouring agents to match or complement the pavers, offering a seamless and neat finish. This can enhance the overall appearance of the paved area, contributing to its aesthetic appeal.
• Longevity: Cement’s durability extends the lifespan of paved surfaces. It withstands environmental elements like rain and temperature fluctuations better than softer materials like sand, ensuring the paved area remains intact for longer.

Cons of Using Cement Between Pavers

While cement offers numerous benefits as a joint filler between pavers, there are also several drawbacks that need consideration:

• Rigidity: Cement is less flexible than joint fillers like sand or polymeric sand. This rigidity can lead to cracking if the pavers shift due to soil movement or temperature changes, which is common in areas with freeze-thaw cycles.
• Complex Installation: Applying cement between pavers requires precision and skill. It must be correctly mixed and applied quickly before it sets, which can be challenging for DIY enthusiasts without prior experience. Mistakes in mixing or application can compromise the integrity and appearance of the entire paved area.
• Repair Difficulties: Repairing cement-filled joints is more labour-intensive than sand-filled ones if damage occurs. The process often involves removing the damaged cement and repaving the affected area, which can be disruptive and costly.
• Water Drainage Issues: Cement prevents water from permeating the joints. This can lead to water pooling on the surface or causing erosion beneath the pavers, potentially undermining the stability of the paved surface.
• Aesthetic Limitations: Once set, cement is permanent, and altering the colour or style of your paved area can be difficult without a complete overhaul.

Preparing to Use Cement Between Pavers

Preparing to use cement between pavers is crucial for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your paving. Here’s how to properly prepare for this process:

• Base Preparation: Begin with a stable, well-compacted crushed stone or gravel base. This layer should be at least 4-6 inches deep, depending on the pavers’ load. Ensure the base is level and provides adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation beneath the pavers.
• Paver Layout: Dry-lay your pavers to determine the pattern and fit before applying cement. This step helps visualise the result and identify any adjustments needed before the permanent installation.
• Edge Restraints: Install edge restraints around the perimeter of the paving area. These restraints prevent the pavers from shifting outward, which is crucial when using rigid cement joints.
• Mixing Cement: Prepare the cement mix, ensuring it achieves the right consistency—typically a ratio of one part cement to three parts sand. The mix should be workable but not too wet, as excess moisture can weaken the cement.
• Application: Carefully apply the cement mix into the joints between the pavers, using a trowel for accuracy. Ensure all joints are filled and compacted to prevent air pockets, which can lead to cracking.
• Curing: Allow the cement to cure fully, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours, depending on weather conditions. Avoid stepping on or disturbing the pavers during this period to ensure a strong and even setting of the cement.

Proper preparation is essential for using cement between pavers, as this affects the aesthetics and functionality of your outdoor space.

Installation Techniques

Installing cement between pavers requires a methodical approach to ensure a durable and visually appealing finish. Here are the key steps involved:

• Mortar Preparation: Start by preparing the mortar mix, typically a blend of one part cement to three parts sand. Adjust the water gradually to achieve a thick, workable paste. It’s essential that the mortar isn’t too runny to maintain strength and ease of application.
• Applying Mortar: Using a pointing trowel, apply the mortar directly into the joints between the pavers. Press the mortar firmly to fill the joints completely, ensuring no air gaps. This step might need to be repeated to top up the joints as the mortar settles and compacts.
• Striking the Joints: Once the joints are filled, use a jointing tool or the rounded end of the trowel to ‘strike’ or smooth the mortar. This not only compacts the mortar further into the joints but also creates a concave shape that helps shed water and enhances the durability of the joints.
• Cleaning Excess Mortar: Before the mortar sets, clean any excess from the surface of the pavers with a damp sponge or cloth. This is crucial to prevent staining and maintain the pavers’ clean look.
• Curing: Allow the mortar to cure slowly over several days. Keep the newly paved area moist for the first 48 hours by lightly misting it with water, especially in hot or dry conditions, to prevent the mortar from drying too quickly, which can lead to cracking.

Maintenance and Repair

Maintenance and repair are crucial to ensuring the longevity and appearance of cement-jointed pavers. Here’s a detailed guide on how to maintain and repair cement between pavers:

Maintenance:

• Regular Cleaning: Sweep the paved area regularly to remove debris and dirt that can accumulate in the joints and cause deterioration. Wash the surface occasionally with a mild detergent and water to prevent stain buildup and to keep the pavers looking fresh.
• Sealing: Apply a sealer to the cement joints and pavers every two to three years. Sealing helps protect the cement from moisture penetration and weathering, reduces staining, and enhances the pavers’ colour.
• Weed and Moss Control: Even though cement joints largely inhibit weed growth, any sign of weeds or moss should be addressed promptly using appropriate herbicides or by manual removal to prevent them from expanding and causing damage.

Repair:

• Crack Repair: Inspect the joints periodically for cracks. Small cracks can be filled with a matching cement or mortar mix. Remove any loose material from the crack, clean the area thoroughly, and fill it with the repair compound.
• Replacement of Damaged Joints: For larger areas of damage, it may be necessary to remove the affected cement. Use a chisel and hammer to remove the old cement carefully, ensuring it does not damage the pavers. Once removed, clean the gap thoroughly before applying the new mortar.
• Paver Resetting: If pavers become loose or uneven, they may need reset. Remove the affected pavers, re-level the base if necessary, and reinstall the pavers using fresh mortar in the joints.

Alternatives to Cement for Paver Joints

While cement is popular for filling paver joints, several alternatives offer different benefits and may better suit specific landscaping needs. Here are some key options to consider:

• Sand: Simple and traditional, sand is easy to install and allows for excellent drainage. It’s particularly useful in areas with frequent rainfall. Sand also provides flexibility, which is beneficial in freeze-thaw climates as it can adapt to minor shifts in the ground.
• Polymeric Sand: This is an advanced form of joint sand mixed with binders that harden when activated by water. Polymeric sand resists erosion, deters weeds and ants, and doesn’t wash away easily, making it more durable than plain sand. It also maintains some flexibility to prevent cracking.
• Gravel: Small pebbles or gravel can be used in joints for a permeable pavement system, enhancing drainage and reducing runoff. Gravel is ideal for informal garden paths or low-traffic areas and adds a rustic aesthetic.
• Rubber Composite: For environmentally friendly projects, recycled rubber composite materials offer flexibility, durability, and effective water drainage. They are also resistant to cracking and provide a shock-absorbent surface.
• Stone Dust is finer than sand and has excellent compaction qualities, making it a stable joint filler that allows water permeability. It’s particularly effective under larger pavers used in walkways or patios.

Expert Opinions

When considering the use of cement between pavers, expert opinions emphasise the importance of assessing the specific needs of the project and the local environmental conditions. Landscaping professionals and architects often highlight several critical considerations:

• Durability and Stability: Experts agree that cement is highly effective for high-traffic areas because it can lock pavers in place, reducing shifting and sinking firmly. It is recommended for driveways or commercial spaces where stability is paramount.
• Climate Considerations: Experts caution against the use of rigid materials like cement in regions with severe freeze-thaw cycles. Their lack of flexibility can lead to cracking as the ground shifts with temperature changes. In such cases, alternatives like polymeric sand might be advised because they can expand and contract.
• Aesthetic Concerns: From an aesthetic viewpoint, cement can offer a clean, uniform look that many find appealing. However, experts suggest considering the area’s overall design and colour scheme, as cement can be visible between the joints and may contrast with the style of the pavers.
• Long-Term Maintenance: While cement reduces frequent maintenance, experts note that necessary repairs can be more labour-intensive than other materials. Replacement of cement in joints requires more effort and can disrupt the overall look if not done carefully.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cement between pavers can offer durability and stability, especially in high-traffic areas. 

However, consider your local climate and maintenance before choosing this method. 

Consult with a professional landscaper for more insights and personalized advice on paving solutions to ensure the best outcome for your project.