In Tempe, Arizona, brick pavers add timeless beauty and durability to patios, walkways, and driveways. But to keep them stable and attractive year after year, it’s critical to maintain proper sand levels between the joints. Without enough sand, pavers shift, settle, and lose their polished look—especially under Arizona’s intense sun and monsoon rains.
Maintaining the right joint sand levels not only preserves curb appeal but also protects your investment from costly repairs.
Key Takeaways
- Proper joint sand keeps pavers stable, prevents weeds, and blocks erosion.
- Polymeric sand offers superior strength compared to basic play sand.
- Sand loss over time is normal and requires periodic replenishment and sealing.
- Professional cleaning and sealing enhance both sand retention and surface longevity.
Why Proper Sand Levels Matter in Tempe’s Climate
In Tempe’s desert environment, brick pavers expand and contract daily due to temperature swings. Without the right amount of joint sand:
- Pavers shift and settle, causing uneven surfaces
- Water infiltrates the base layer, leading to erosion
- Weeds and ants find gaps to grow and burrow
- Overall appearance declines, reducing home value
After professional installation, your pavers should be cleaned and sealed to lock in the correct sand levels. Learn how this process protects your surfaces in our Brick Paver Cleaning and Sealing service overview.
What’s the Correct Sand Level for Brick Pavers?
Generally, sand should fill the joints up to 1/8 inch below the chamfer edge (the angled top edge of the paver). This slight gap allows for expansion while still firmly locking the pavers in place.
Correct sand level tips:
- Full enough to block movement and discourage weed growth
- Low enough to prevent sand erosion onto the paver surface
- Evenly distributed across the entire surface for uniform load bearing
This Old House emphasizes that properly installed and maintained joint sand is critical to the long-term performance of any paver installation.
Types of Sand to Use
- Polymeric Sand: The gold standard for Arizona pavers. It hardens after moisture exposure, creating a weed- and washout-resistant barrier.
- Regular Jointing Sand: Suitable for low-traffic areas but requires frequent replenishment.
- Play Sand: Never use it. It’s too fine and washes out easily under Tempe’s monsoon rains.
Want more on why sealing is essential after adding new sand? Check out our article on Benefits of Paver Sealing in Phoenix to see how we protect surfaces post-installation.
Signs You Need to Replenish Joint Sand
- Visible gaps between pavers
- Pavers shifting or rocking underfoot
- Weed growth between joints
- Noticeable sand washout after heavy rain
If you spot these signs, it’s time to re-sand and reseal before more serious problems develop. The Spruce recommends re-sanding and sealing every few years to maintain structural integrity and aesthetics.
Steps to Properly Maintain Sand Levels
- Clean the Surface: Use a low-pressure wash to remove dirt and debris without damaging existing joints.
- Dry Thoroughly: Allow pavers to dry completely before adding new sand.
- Sweep in New Sand: Use polymeric sand and sweep it carefully into all joints.
- Compact and Resweep: Compact the surface and sweep again to fill any gaps.
- Activate Polymeric Sand: Lightly mist with water to activate the bonding agents.
- Seal the Pavers: Apply a breathable sealer to lock in the sand and protect against future erosion.
Need help with this process? Contact Paver Sealing Arizona for expert service tailored to Tempe homes.
Professional Cleaning and Sealing: The Long-Term Solution
While DIY re-sanding can work for small touch-ups, professional cleaning and sealing:
- Ensure deeper, even sand penetration
- Apply top-tier, Arizona-specific sealants
- Provide multi-year protection against dust, rain, UV, and weeds
At Paver Sealing Arizona, we specialize in restoring, cleaning, and sealing pavers throughout Tempe and nearby communities like Anthem, AZ. Our team customizes each project based on paver type, site conditions, and climate exposure.
Protect Your Pavers With Proper Sand and Sealing
Your brick pavers are built to last—but only with the right maintenance. Maintaining proper sand levels is one of the most important (and often overlooked) steps to preserving both beauty and stability.
Call Paver Sealing Arizona today to schedule a free inspection and consultation. Let’s keep your Tempe paver patio, driveway, or walkway beautiful, secure, and built to last!
