Grout common uses in homes involve filling in tiles of shower floors and kitchens. The mixture is also popularly used for masonry walls, joining sections of pre-cast concrete, sealing joints, and filling voids. Which raises the question: Can you grout pavers too?
After all, with so many possible applications, you’re probably wondering if you can also use the substance in outdoor flooring.
In this article, not only will we answer that question, but we also decided to talk a little more about the material as well.
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Can You Put Grout Between Pavers?
Yes, you can. Although we don’t think that’s the best approach, a common sand installation is better, as we will explain later on.
Grouting an outdoor paver installation is no different than an indoor stone or tile project. Although it is not uncommon to use the substance, still, in general, sand is the most popular and best option when it comes to paver joints.
Generally, grout is a blend of water, cement, and sand. And you can use it in many ways. The substance is often color-tinted when it has to be kept visible. Sometimes includes fine gravel when you use it to fill large spaces (such as the cores of concrete blocks).
Unlike other architectural glues (such as plaster or joint compound), when you mix and apply correctly the grout, it forms a water-resistant seal.
Although both grout and mortar are applied as a thick emulsion and harden over time, grout has low viscosity and lack of lime.
How To Use Grout Between Pavers?
There are two methods for grouting patio pavers, and neither is difficult to do:
- The first way requires you to use a grout bag.
- The second process needs you to use a stiff-bristled brush and semi-dry grout.
Both ways are efficient, so your choice depends on the materials and tools at hand.
- Start by sealing your pavers first as it prevents stains caused by grout, which can be hard to clean up after you complete the process.
- If you’re using a grout bag, just squeeze it from its end. The quicker you do, the faster the contents squirt from the ½-inch hole at the end.
- If you go for the semi-dry grout, first make sure you chose a day there’s no rain expected. Mix the grout by adding a small amount of water; it will allow you to sweep the substance into the paver joints quickly and easily.
We suggest you make sure pavers have no excess debris on the surface before you start; it will help keep the grouting clean and efficient.
How Long Does It Take For Grout Between Pavers To Dry
On average, grout takes between 24 and 72 hours to dry. Still, the precise drying time depends on different factors like; the type of grout and humidity levels.
We recommend you allow grout to dry. Make sure the period corresponds at least the time said in the product manual. But the longer you wait, the better.
How Long Does Grout Between Pavers Last?
Despite being an excellent material for indoors, lasting up to 15 to 20 years (with appropriate maintenance), the same does NOT happen with grouting in outdoor projects. If you grout pavers, you can expect it to last 3 to 5 years tops.
Remember when you use this substance that you have a very delicate, highly porous, and absorbent product in hand. So, it’s vulnerable to water damage. Grout needs sealing for protection. When you use the proper sealant, your paver flooring will become more resilient.
What Is The Best Material To Put In Between Pavers?
Despite being a good material for indoor paving projects, there are better alternatives to grout when it comes to outdoor flooring. Both sand, and polymeric sand (in case you’re looking for the best option), will outperform grout.
Polymeric sand, especifically, has noteworthy binding power. When you wet this sand, it activates the polymers, which hardens the various components, effectively locking the pavers in place.
Although more expensive, the product has excellent properties. Once hardened, the alloy won’t wash away easily with heavy rain or water from a hose. Meaning you won’t have to worry about refillin or regrouting pavers every 3 to 5 years.
Can You Do It Yourself?
But can you grout pavers yourself? You definitely can. The method is somewhat simple, and you don’t need expensive equipment for it. But asking someone to do it for you, might be safer, especially because you need to seal your pavers first.
At JS Brick, we have 20+ years of experience providing paver installation, supply, and maintenance services in Sarasota and surrounding cities. For a free estimate on paver grouting, cleaning, and sealing services, don’t hesitate to leave us a message or a call.
