SANDING A DRIVEWAY
What is Driveway Cleaning?
Driveway cleaning services are essential maintenance tasks that involves removing dirt, grime, stains, and debris from the surface of your driveway. Over time, driveways can become cluttered with various types of stains from oil spills, tyre marks, food waste, and organic matter such as leaves, moss, and algae. Not only do these substances detract from the aesthetic appeal of your property, but they can also pose safety hazards by creating slippery surfaces.
Neglecting to clean your driveway can lead to long-term damage, as trapped moisture can cause erosion or cracking. Regular maintenance helps preserve not only the appearance but also the structural integrity of the driveway. While many homeowners opt for power washing, chemical cleaners, or even scrubbing by hand, sanding a driveway offers a unique benefit, especially for block-paved driveways.
The Use of Kiln Dried Sand
Kiln dried sand is a special type of sand used for sanding a driveway, that has been heated and dried in a kiln to remove its moisture content. This makes it particularly effective for use in jointing and stabilising block paving. The drying process results in a fine, granular texture that is ideal for filling the gaps between paving blocks, providing a stable framework that prevents shifting and loosening.
Using kiln dried sand not only enhances the long-term durability of your driveway but also contributes to improved safety by reducing the chances of individual blocks moving or becoming uneven. In high-traffic areas, such as residential driveways, the stabilising effect of kiln dried sand is particularly beneficial.
One notable feature of kiln dried sand is its aesthetic versatility. It is typically available in two main colours at builders’ merchants: a very light, almost white sand and a slightly terracotta option. This allows homeowners to select a shade that complements their driveway and landscaping, ensuring a more polished and cohesive appearance.
Where to Purchase Kiln Dried Sand
When sanding a driveway; kiln dried sand is readily available at builders’ merchants, home improvement stores, and garden centres. For those involved in construction or landscaping businesses, it is advisable to buy kiln dried sand in tonne bags, as this is more economical and practical for larger projects. Purchasing in bulk not only saves you money but ensures that you have plenty of sand on hand for various jobs, reducing the need for frequent trips to the store.
When sourcing kiln dried sand, always verify the quality; high-grade sand will provide better performance in both jointing and aesthetic appeal. Be sure to inspect the packaging to ensure that it is free from contaminants and that the sand itself appears clean and fine.
How to Brush Kiln Dried Sand In
To achieve the best results when applying kiln dried sand, follow these detailed steps:
- Choose the Right Weather: Always plan to apply kiln dried sand on a dry day. Wet conditions can hinder the movement of the sand, making it difficult to work with—especially on porous surfaces. Sanding on a dry day will allow you to effectively fill the gaps between blocks without battling moisture issues.
- Gather Your Tools: Use a large, stiff-bristled brush specifically designed for sweeping sand. The size of the brush will help you efficiently cover larger areas, while sturdy bristles are essential for forcing the sand into joints.
- Application Technique:
- Start by ensuring the driveway surface is thoroughly cleaned and dried before applying the sand.
- Work in either square or linear sections to maintain better control and coverage. Gradually sprinkle or pour the kiln dried sand over the area you are working on.
- Use the large brush to distribute the sand evenly across the surface. Focus on filling all gaps between the bricks or blocks.
- Once the area is entirely covered, employ a side-to-side brushing motion. This technique helps to push the sand into the joints more effectively, making certain that no gaps remain.
- Final Touches: After brushing the sand into the joints, it’s a good practice to leave the area untouched for a few days if possible. This allows the sand to settle and bond effectively, providing maximum stability.
Why is Kiln Dried Sand Used?
Kiln dried sand serves multiple important purposes:
- Block Stabilisation: One of its primary benefits is its ability to stabilise block paving. In driveways that experience heavy traffic, including the weight of vehicles, kiln dried sand helps to distribute this weight evenly across the surface, minimising the likelihood of blocks shifting out of place. This prevention of block movement is essential for maintaining a level and safe driving surface.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Freshly sanded driveways look significantly more polished and professional. The fine texture of kiln dried sand fills in the gaps uniformly, providing a clean, finished look that enhances your property’s overall appearance.
- Weed Prevention: High silica content in kiln dried sand can also offer some resistance to weed growth in the joints of block paving. While specific silica sands with added weed-killing properties are available, the most reliable method for preventing weed growth is consistent maintenance, including the application of a suitable post-sanding weed killer as needed.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Regularly sanding a driveway may save you money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. Maintaining the stability of your blocks prolongs their life, enhancing the overall longevity of your driveway.
- Environmental Considerations: Kiln dried sand is a natural product, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to some synthetic alternatives. Using sand can contribute to a sustainable approach to maintaining your property.
Additional Tips and Considerations
To ensure if you should sand your driveway for it to remain in excellent condition, consider implementing the following practices:
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Regular cleaning and sanding of your driveway should be part of your annual routine. Consider scheduling this task at least once a year, or more frequently for driveways that receive above-average wear and tear.
- Quality Products Matter: Invest in high-quality kiln dried sand and cleaning products to maximise efficiency. Quality materials not only improve performance but also contribute to the longevity of your driveway.
- Safety Precautions: When handling sand and cleaning supplies, always wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a dust mask. Protecting yourself helps mitigate any potential hazards associated with dust and chemicals.
- Consider Professional Help: If your driveway is particularly large or has extensive damage, it may be worth hiring a professional. Skilled contractors will have the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure a thorough job, potentially saving you time and effort.
By adhering to these guidelines and principles, you can maintain a pristine driveway that enhances the visual appeal of your home and maximises the longevity of your investment. Sanding your driveway is more than just a cosmetic update; it’s a necessary step in ensuring the durability and functionality of one of the most frequently used exterior spaces of your property.
