When it comes to having fabulous outdoors, let’s just admit that people love to go all out. From amazing furniture to ambient lighting to trying unique paving methods such as natural stone Crazy pavers, they don’t leave a stone unturned to ensure that their property looks stunning. Speaking of the Crazy paving method, in this, stones of non-linear sizes and shapes are arranged randomly to create a dynamic-looking pattern. Such an arrangement adds a great character and life to your space, making it stand out from normal-looking ones.
Another great thing about opting for Crazy paving stones is that they make your space functional with their durability and natural slip resistance.
Maintaining them is easy too. You just have to be prompt with your routine cleaning and periodic re-sealing, and you’re set.
Don’t worry! If you have been wondering how to go about it, then you have hit the jackpot, because we are here to answer how to fill gaps in Crazy paving. But before we get there, let’s understand what Crazy paving style is all about!
What is Crazy Paving?
This paving method, sometimes also called Flagstone paving, is a method that came from ancient Rome. In this, unevenly shaped pieces of stones are used to create a unique-looking visual effect. The gaps or joints between the same are filled using mortar and grouting.
With its dynamic look, this method is quite famous in Australia, bestowing any exterior space with character and personality. You can build stunning paths, patios, gardens, poolside areas, and other visually appealing outdoor projects using this paving method. Just be sure of proper installation and repair and you’ll be good to go.
Now that we have understood what Crazy paving is. Let’s know about how to address the gaps between the same.
How to Fill the Gaps in Crazy Paving
During the installation process, it is natural for the gaps to occur. Further, owing to the irregularities in shapes and sizes, filling the same could be challenging. And that is exactly why we are here to answer this question.
To fill the gaps between these building materials, you can rely on two things: mortar or sand. Here’s how:
Using Mortar to Fill the Gaps
If you choose to fill your Crazy pavers’ gaps with the help of a mortar, you will be mixing a batch of mortar and will have to go by what’s been suggested by the manufacturer. After the same has been mixed, you can use a microfibre towel for application purposes. Make sure that the mortar is pressed into the joints in a way that no voids are left behind. After you are done filling the gaps, with a damp sponge, wipe away the remaining mortar from the pavers’ surfaces.
Using Sand to Fill the Gaps
When you pick sand to fill the gaps between your Crazy pavers, all you need to do is ensure that you are sweeping the sand into the same. Use a microfibre brush for sweeping the sand within the gaps. Further, with water, you can dampen the sand so it can settle well within the same. Once the same is dry, use the same microfibre brush to sweep away any excess sand that is there on the surface of your Crazy pavers.
Which Crazy Paver Gap-Filling Method is The Best?
The answer is whichever method suits you the best plus what kind of look you want for your paving. For instance, if you prefer a clean finish, then going with mortar to fill the gaps would be a great idea. However, if you are someone who likes a rustic look, then you can definitely go with sand as an option.
3 Key Points That You Should Know About Filling These Gaps
Below are the 3 key points to remember before you attempt to fill the gaps between these Crazy paving stones:
- Material to Be Used: Whether you are using sand or mortar
- Application: Ensure that there is proper application of the gap-filling material
- Being Consistent: Make sure that there is consistency in terms of application across the Crazy pavers
Now that we know the key pointers, let’s have a look at some additional tips to make sure that the gaps are filled properly.
5 Top Tips to Ensure Seamless Gap-Filling for Crazy Pavers
Read below the 5 top tips you can refer to properly fill the gaps between these building materials:
- Ensure that there isn’t any dirt and debris stuck between the gaps before you begin the filling process.
- In case you are going with mortar, make sure to achieve appropriate consistency. To simply put, the consistency should be such that it remains between the gaps, not so much that you find it challenging to use it.
- In case you use mortar to fill in the gaps, there should be no room for voids to exist. Just press the same within the gaps firmly.
- Now, if you are going with sand to fill the gaps, make sure to use water so that the same is dampened. Doing this will help ensure that the sand is settled better within the gaps.
- After finishing the gap-filling process, make sure that the excess mortar and sand don’t stay on your Crazy pavers’ surface.
Note: There is a 24-hour curing time for the mortar and sand after the gaps are filled. It’s advised that you shouldn’t use your paving before that.
More to Explore: Crazy Pavers: A Stylish Twist to Your Outdoor Spaces
To Sum It Up
Crazy paving is a unique way to add personality and charm to your space. Filling the gaps between the same is not too difficult a task if you know how to go about it. You can either use mortar to fill the gaps between your Crazy pavers or go with sand. Do remember to refer to the key points and top tips before attempting the gap-filling process. Lastly, if you feel confused, don’t hesitate to contact professionals.
FAQs
Q: What stone is used for Crazy paving?
The market has a plethora of options you can select from when we talk about stones used for the same. For instance, you can select from Travertine, Limestone, Sandstone and more.
Q: What to use to fill large gaps between Crazy pavers?
Like we said, you can either go with sand or mortar to fill the gaps (large or small) between these stones. You can also try compaction to ensure that the gaps are tightly filled.
Q: Does Crazy paving need sealing?
Yes! Since the same is made of natural stones, which are porous in nature, you need to seal the same. Using a premium-quality sealant is the correct way to go about it. To add, you can either surface-seal the stones or go for dip-sealing. If you ask us, we’d recommend the latter.
Q: What will happen if Crazy pavers aren’t sealed?
If you don’t seal the same, it can cause the stones to stain and experience damage.
