The Benefits of Re-Sanding and Sealing Your Block Paving

Block paving is a popular choice for driveways across Hawkhurst thanks to its attractive appearance, strength, and versatility. However, like any surface exposed to the weather and regular use, it needs occasional care to keep it looking its best. Two of the most effective maintenance steps are re-sanding the joints and sealing the surface. When completed professionally, these techniques help preserve the condition of the driveway while protecting against common forms of wear.

At Hawkhurst Driveways, we help homeowners restore and maintain their block paving so it remains durable, stable, and visually appealing year after year.

Restoring Stability Between the Blocks

The joints between the paving blocks are filled with kiln-dried sand, which helps keep the surface stable. Over time, rain, sweeping, and everyday use gradually remove this sand. Without it, the blocks can begin to move or shift slightly under pressure.

Re-sanding:

• Strengthens the structure of the driveway
  
• Reduces movement that can lead to uneven surfaces
  
• Helps prevent blocks from loosening
  
• Supports long-term durability
  

This simple step ensures the driveway continues to bear weight effectively and remain level.

Protecting Against Weed Growth

Gaps between block paving are one of the easiest places for weeds to take hold. As jointing sand wears away, these spaces become more exposed, allowing wind-blown seeds to settle and grow.

Re-sanding helps prevent:

• Weed roots spreading between the blocks
  
• Moss building up in damp areas
  
• Ongoing maintenance becoming more difficult
  

A well-sanded driveway is much less likely to suffer from stubborn growth that spoils its appearance.

Sealing Helps Prevent Stains and Surface Wear

Sealing the driveway after re-sanding creates a protective layer over the blocks. This makes the surface more resistant to the everyday marks and stains that are difficult to remove from untreated paving.

A high-quality sealant helps guard against:

• Oil and vehicle fluid stains
  
• Fading caused by sunlight
  
• Water absorption that leads to long-term wear
  
• Discolouration from dirt and organic matter
  

For homes in Hawkhurst where driveways may be exposed to frequent parking or shaded areas, sealing keeps the paving looking clean and fresh.

Enhancing the Colour and Appearance of Block Paving

Over time, block paving can look dull due to weathering and surface debris. Sealing enhances the natural colour and provides a richer, more defined finish.

This visual improvement:

• Restores the original charm of the driveway
  
• Adds to overall kerb appeal
  
• Helps unify areas that may have faded at different rates
  

A sealed driveway looks newer for longer, offering a noticeable improvement after just one treatment.

Reducing Long-Term Damage From Weather

Block paving is durable, but without protection it can deteriorate more quickly in areas exposed to water, frost, or strong sunlight.

Sealing provides an extra layer of defence against:

• Freeze–thaw damage during winter
  
• Surface erosion from heavy rain
  
• UV fading in periods of strong sunlight
  

This additional protection helps extend the lifespan of the driveway and reduces the likelihood of more costly repairs in the future.

Keeping the Blocks Firmly in Place

One of the lesser-known benefits of sealing is that it reinforces the jointing sand beneath. Once the sand is re-applied, the sealant binds the grains together, helping them stay compact even after rainfall.

This strengthens the overall surface by:

• Preventing sand washout
  
• Reducing block movement
  
• Ensuring long-lasting joint stability
  

It creates a cleaner, more durable finish that stands up to day-to-day use.

Conclusion

Re-sanding and sealing block paving are two of the most effective ways to protect your driveway, prevent long-term wear, and restore its appearance. These maintenance steps support stability, improve durability, and keep your driveway looking its best throughout the changing seasons.

If your block paving in Hawkhurst is beginning to look tired or uneven, Hawkhurst Driveways can provide expert advice and professional maintenance to bring it back to life. Contact us today to arrange a friendly assessment.

Call us on: 01580 234 695
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