How to Stop Weeds from Growing Between Pavers

Weeds growing between pavers can turn a beautiful patio or walkway into a maintenance headache. Not only do they make your hardscape look neglected, but they can also cause damage over time by shifting pavers, trapping moisture, and encouraging root growth below the surface.

At GCO Landscaping, we specialize in paver patio installations and maintenance for homeowners across Sharpsburg, Peachtree City, and surrounding areas. If you're tired of pulling weeds every weekend, here’s what you need to know about stopping them for good.

Why weeds grow between pavers

Weeds thrive in the small gaps between pavers because those joints often hold just enough soil, moisture, and sunlight to support growth. Even professionally installed patios can develop weed problems over time if the joint material begins to break down or erode.

Common causes of weed growth between pavers:

• • Joint sand washed out by rain or irrigation
  • Organic debris (like mulch, soil, or leaves) settling between pavers
  • Poor drainage creating damp conditions ideal for weed germination
  • Improper installation or lack of proper joint stabilization

The key to controlling weeds is to eliminate the conditions that allow them to take root.

Effective ways to prevent weed growth

There’s no universal fix for weed growth between pavers, but the good news is that you can significantly reduce the problem with a combination of proper installation practices, routine maintenance, and strategic upgrades. Whether you're dealing with a paver patio, driveway, or garden walkway, these methods are designed to keep your hardscape clean, stable, and weed-free.

1. Use polymeric sand during installation or re-jointing

Polymeric sand is one of the most effective tools in the fight against weeds. Unlike basic joint sand, which can easily wash away or break down over time, polymeric sand contains special binding agents that lock the grains together once activated with water.

When applied properly, it creates a hardened barrier that resists weed seed penetration, water infiltration, and insect activity.

Key benefits of polymeric sand:

• • • Weed prevention – Blocks seed germination in paver joints
    • Erosion resistance – Prevents sand from washing out after rain
    • Pest deterrent – Reduces ant and insect tunneling between pavers
    • Structural support – Helps maintain joint integrity and prevent shifting

At GCO Landscaping, we use polymeric sand in all new paver installations and offer re-jointing services for existing patios that need maintenance. If your joints look loose or uneven, we can restore the surface and help prevent future weed problems.

2. Keep paver surfaces clean and free of debris

Weeds often don’t grow from underneath—they grow from above. Windblown seeds can land in dirt, mulch, or organic debris that collects between pavers. Left unaddressed, even the smallest amount of material can become a breeding ground for weed growth.

Smart maintenance tips:

• • • Blow or sweep off debris regularly, especially after storms or mowing
    • Trim back overhanging trees or shrubs to reduce leaf litter
    • Avoid using excessive mulch near hardscape edges, which can spill over into joints
    • Power wash annually to remove dirt buildup—but avoid dislodging joint sand

Cleanliness is key. GCO Landscaping offers routine maintenance services to help homeowners in Sharpsburg and surrounding areas keep their hardscape clean, attractive, and low-maintenance all year long.

3. Improve drainage around your hardscape

Poor drainage is a hidden contributor to weed growth. Constantly wet paver joints create ideal conditions for weeds to germinate and thrive—especially in shaded or compacted areas. If your patio has puddles after a light rain or stays damp for days, drainage issues are likely to blame.

Solutions we often recommend:

• • • Regrading the patio or walkway to direct water away from the surface
    • Installing a French drain or channel drain to capture and redirect water runoff
    • Adjusting your irrigation system to avoid spraying or overwatering hardscape areas
    • Using porous pavers or permeable joint materials for improved drainage

As part of our drainage solutions and property grading services, GCO Landscaping can assess your site and make the necessary adjustments to help eliminate moisture-related weed issues before they take root.

4. Seal your pavers for added protection

While sealing isn’t required for every paver installation, it does provide several benefits—especially for homeowners looking to reduce long-term maintenance. A high-quality sealant helps lock in joint sand, repel water, and minimize the buildup of dirt and organic material between pavers.

Advantages of sealing your pavers:

• • • Creates a smoother, sealed surface that’s less inviting to weeds
    • Prevents joint erosion, keeping sand in place during rain or cleaning
    • Reduces staining from leaves, dirt, and spills
    • Enhances color and provides a clean, finished look to your patio or walkway

Not all pavers or environments require sealing, but in high-traffic or shaded areas, it can be a smart investment. GCO Landscaping can evaluate your hardscape and recommend the best sealant for your specific materials and climate conditions in Georgia.

Together, these strategies form a comprehensive approach to weed control that’s proactive rather than reactive. By combining material upgrades like polymeric sand and sealants with smart maintenance and proper drainage, you can enjoy a clean, low-maintenance hardscape that looks great all year—and doesn’t leave you pulling weeds every weekend.

Real example: Weed control in a Senoia backyard

A client in Senoia contacted us after struggling with weed growth between the pavers of their backyard patio. The original installer had used basic sand, which had eroded over time. We cleaned the joints, applied high-quality polymeric sand, and added a low-profile border to keep debris out. Six months later, their patio still looks crisp—and they haven’t pulled a single weed.

Proudly serving Sharpsburg and surrounding communities

GCO Landscaping provides expert paver installation and maintenance services in:

• • Sharpsburg
  • Peachtree City
  • Senoia
  • Newnan
  • Tyrone
  • Fayetteville

Whether you need a new patio built right or want to restore an existing one, we’re here to help.

Stop weeds before they take over

Protect your patio and enjoy your outdoor space again.
If you're dealing with weeds between your pavers, GCO Landscaping can help with professional re-jointing, cleaning, and maintenance services designed for Georgia's climate. We install and care for patios, walkways, and hardscapes that are built to last—and built to stay clean.

Call today or request your free estimate and let us help you take control of your outdoor living space. We proudly serve Sharpsburg, Peachtree City, Senoia, Newnan, Tyrone, and Fayetteville.