how to stop weeds growing in block paving-the truth from a professional driveway cleaner.
- dean jones
- Nov 16
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago

Weeds in block paving are one of the biggest complaints we hear from customers. Even after a full pressure wash, re-sand and optional sealing, weeds can still return if preventative steps aren't taken.

Here is the honest truth about weeds, how they grow, what actually works, and what's a complete myth.
Why do weeds grow in block paving? Where do they come from?
A lot of people believe weeds grow from below and push their way up.
They don't.
Almost all weeds grow from the top down, when seeds land into the joints from:
Wind
Birds
Trees
General debris and dust
Nearby flower beds and lawns
Once moisture hits the sanded block paving joints, weeds take hold quickly.
Does hard-setting sand stop weeds?
This is one of the biggest myths in the industry.
Products like "Polymeric Sand" claim to stop weeds completely - but our real-world experience across hundreds of driveways shows:
Hard-setting sand DOES still fail.
It cracks
It breaks down
It still collects dirt and dust
Seeds still germinate on top
For UK weather [especially the West Midlands], flexible kiln-dried sand is still recommended after the clean.

How about sealing?
Again, sealing will not stop the menace of weeds returning. However:
Helps stabilise the sand
Can retard weed growth
Reduces moss
Protects the colour of blocks
Makes future cleaning easier
But no sealer will stop weeds 100%.
It reduces them - it doesn't eliminate them.
What we do at DMS before cleaning
Before pressure washing any block paved driveway, we always suggest a weed killer is applied at least one week before the clean takes place. Two weeks before is ideal.
This kills off existing growth and weakens the roots, giving a "clean slate", and a head start, in battling the weeds.
What we do at DMS after the clean
Once the blocks dry, we re-sand the joints with fresh kiln-dried sand.
This:
Locks the blocks in place
Reduces movement
Helps surface water drain correctly
We provide sealing if asked, as well as a Biocide treatment.
This:
Kills any organics left after the clean
Has a residual effect that effectively keeps the sand and surface "sterile", for an extended period of time = weeds, moss, algae all struggle to take a hold.
Best way to keep your driveway weed-free all year round
Here's what actually works, long term:
Monthly Weed Spraying
A simple, quick spray of a standard weed killer every 4-6 weeks can prevent 90% of regrowth.
Keep the Driveway Free of Build up
A quick brush or leaf blower every now and then, removes dust, debris, seeds and moss.
Remove soil/matter from edges
Soil build-up along borders invites weeds to spread onto the blocks.
Have the Driveway Professionally Cleaned Every 12-18 Months
This stops deep rooted moss, dirt and algae building up - the things weeds love.
Why choose DMS for Block Paving Cleaning in the West Midlands?
We're experienced in restoring block paving properly, including:
Professional equipment
Moss, algae, lichen and stain removal
Treatments and advice
Re-sand with every clean
Aftercare advice and options
We service Bloxwich, Walsall, Cannock, Aldridge, Great Barr, Sutton Coldfield, Wolverhampton and all surrounding areas in the West Midlands.
Want a free quote?
If your exterior surfaces are looking tired or full of weeds, we can get that kerb appeal back.
Call or Text Dean 07935648535

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DMS serve, Bloxwich, Walsall, Cannock, Great Barr, Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield,Wolverhampton and surrounding areas in the West Midlands
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