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How to Grout a Patio the Right Way
Planning to grout a patio or refresh old, cracked joints? Using the right materials makes all the difference in durability and appearance. The best outdoor grout for stone or concrete pavers, particularly resin-based compounds like Xtreme Easy or more of GFTK’s products, deliver a long-lasting, polished finish built for seasonal changes. This guide will walk you through the options, tips, and tools that can help you get it done right. For more tips on exterior design, read our article How to Design An Outdoor Living Space once you’re finished reading this article.
Step-by-Step Guide to Outdoor Grout
Here’s a quick overview of how to grout your patio the right way using a high-performance product like Xtreme Easy:
- Clean the surface and joints.
Remove debris, dust, and any existing filler to ensure proper adhesion. - Choose the right grout.
For long-lasting outdoor use, resin-based compounds like Xtreme Easy or a two-part GFTK resin are recommended over traditional sands or cements. - Pre-wet the surface if required.
Use a hose to wet the paver surface. - Apply the jointing material.
Pour the grout over the patio and use a Hydrobroom to push it into the joints. A broom or squeegee plus a hose can work as well although it is less efficient!
- Use the Hydrobroom for the entire process.
This tool is a broom and hose all in one and makes installing Xtreme Easy a one-man process Learn more about the Hydrobroom here. - Compact the joints.
On certain products, use a trowel or jointing tool to ensure the grout is firmly packed. - Allow for proper curing.
Protect the area from rain and traffic for the duration recommended on the product label.
Do’s and Don’ts of Outdoor Grout
Do:
• Follow manufacturer instructions
️• Work in small, manageable sections
️• Use clean tools and fresh water
️• Monitor weather conditions before starting
Don’t:
• Don’t grout on freezing days
️• Don’t rush curing. Allow full drying time for best results
Ready to grout your patio? Explore our Xtreme Easy jointing compound and installation tools to get started today.
Pro Tips for Grouting a Patio That Lasts
Grouting may seem like a minor step, but it’s key to the look and longevity of your patio. Follow these expert tips to ensure a smooth install and lasting results:
- Prepare your surface. Clear all debris and dust from the joints before grouting to ensure strong adhesion.
- Work in small sections. Resin-based grouts can cure fast. Mix only what you can apply in 10–15 minutes.
- Spray gently if required. Use a fine spray if your product calls for activation, but don’t overdo it. Know the product you are installing. Some products you can use lots of water, but some you need to be more cautious. Installing resin is much different from installing polymeric sand.
- Check the forecast. Avoid grouting in extreme temperatures to prevent curing issues. Xtreme Easy can be applied in wet weather, but polymeric sand cannot. It must be dry to install polymeric sand.
- Sweep carefully. Any leftover residue can cause hazing, especially on textured stone or concrete. Be sure to do a final sweep.
- Follow product instructions closely. Each grout compound has its own curing time and prep requirements. Stick to them for the best results.
- Compact the joints. Use a trowel or jointing tool to press the grout firmly into the gaps and reduce air pockets. This is not necessary for every project. It is helpful for larger joints.
Get the Most Out of Your Patio
Choosing the right grout is only part of the process. Proper care after installation helps your patio look great and last for years. Inspect your joints seasonally, sweep regularly, and address any damage early to prevent larger issues in the future.
Once your grout is in place, consider adding the finishing touch with landscape lighting. It enhances visibility and ambiance and beautifully highlights your hardscape features at night. For ideas, check out our guide on How To Install Low Voltage Landscape Lighting.
At Sauder’s Hardscape Supply, we offer a full range of grouting products, jointing tools, and accessories to help you achieve professional results. Stop by or contact us for personalized recommendations tailored to your patio style and conditions.
Understanding Patio Grout
Grout, also known as jointing material, is the substance used to fill the gaps between pavers. Its primary functions include:
Stabilization
Keeps pavers in place and distributes weight evenly.
Protection
Prevents weed growth and deters insects.
Appearance
Enhances the visual appeal of your patio by providing a finished look.
Types of Grout for Patios
Resin-Based Jointing Compounds (Primary Recommendation)
Best for: Most outdoor applications, including patios, driveways, walkways, and permeable installations.
Resin-based jointing compounds are Sauder’s top recommendation for outdoor grout. They’re long-lasting, water-permeable, and flexible enough to withstand freeze-thaw cycles and heavy foot traffic. Xtreme Easy, in particular, offers an easy-to-apply solution with superior durability, ideal for DIYers and pros alike. Xtreme Easy is not recommended for around pools.
Recommended Products
Xtreme Easy
A pre-mixed, 1-component resin paving joint compound suitable for concrete pavers, natural stone, and tile. Easy to install, but more durable than polymeric sand.
- Water-permeable
- Air-drying
- Self-compacting
- Can be applied in light rain
- Clean, stain-free surface
- Pressure washer friendly
- 1/8” (3mm) joint width suitable for all types of stones
- For pedestrian traffic loads
VDW 833*
Perfect areas with medium traffic.
- For light to medium traffic loads
- For joint widths from 3/8″
- Water permeable
- Self-compacting
- Can be applied to ground temperatures of > 37°F
- Can be applied in the rain
*The 2 Part Resin Mixer Assembly Is Required For Use.
VDW 835 N*
Great for patios with medium to heavy foot traffic.
- For medium to heavy traffic loads
- For joint widths from 1/4″
- Slightly water-permeable
- Self-compacting
- Can be applied in the rain
- Quick reopening to traffic
- Can be applied from > 37ºF surface temperature
- No whitening
*The 2 Part Resin Mixer Assembly Is Required For Use.
VDW 815
Designed for ceramic porcelain, flagstone, and slabs for patios with light to medium traffic loads.
- For light to medium traffic loads
- For flags and slabs, specially designed for ceramic tiles
- Water permeable
- Self-compacting
- Can even be applied in light rain and at low temperatures
- No resin film
- No whitening
- Highly abrasion-resistant and mechanical sweeper-resistant
- Can be applied from > 37ºF surface temperature
Pros and Cons of Resin-Based Jointing Compounds
Pros
- Flexible and crack-resistant
- Permeable: prevents water pooling
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than polymeric sand
- While some are not difficult to install, most resin products are more technical to install
Browse our full lineup of GFTK resin-based grout products.
Here’s a quick look at how Xtreme Easy works and why it’s become a favorite among DIYers and pros alike:
Polymeric Sand
Best for: Interlocking concrete pavers with joints up to ½ inch wide.
Polymeric sand is a blend of fine sand and additives that harden when moistened. It’s still a popular choice for small joint applications but offers less longevity than resin-based alternatives.
Pros and Cons of Polymeric Sand
Pros
- Easy to apply and activate with water.
- Resistant to weed growth and insect infestation.
- Durable under various weather conditions.
Cons
- Not suitable for joints wider than ½ inch.
- Requires careful water activation to prevent hazing on paver surfaces.
The Hydro-Broom
Simplify your Xtreme Easy installation with the Hydro-Broom, a specialized tool designed to streamline grout application and cleanup. Its fine water control and durable bristles make it easy to finish your project efficiently without washing away the jointing material.
Ask us about bundling the Hydrobroom with your next Xtreme Easy purchase for added convenience!
FAQs about How to Grout a Patio
Ready to grout your patio? Explore our Xtreme Easy jointing compound and installation tools to get started today!
Begin Your Project journey at our showroom
Visit our 5,000 square feet indoor hardscape materials showroom in New Holland, PA where you will find hardscape layouts, outdoor kitchen ideas, patio paver designs, patio lighting features, and our high-quality patio furniture all on display. Find the colors and textures that best complement your style, and a guide to help you choose the best combinations for your hardscape project in New Holland, PA. Here you will find hundreds of hardscape materials on display along with a full display of backyard and patio ideas.
