How to fill gaps between pavers and Besser block around pool?

[Sheeba]

Hello,

After installing pavers around our pool area, theres now gap between the pavers and retaining wall which is besser block.

Expansion joints installed, howerever theres still some gaps, as in the photo.

Tried filling the gap with blue metal dust but not happy with it. No very confident the finish will be neat and uniform with with sealers.

Really appreciate any other recommendations, if this product a good alternative to sealants and will fix the issue?

https://www.bunnings.com.au/selleys-600ml-grey-flexiseal-polyurethane-construction-sealant_p1210364 

https://www.bunnings.com.au/selleys-600ml-grey-flexiseal-polyurethane-construction-sealant_p1210364

[EricL · Accepted solution]

Hello @Sheeba 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's wonderful to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about filling the gap between your pavers and Besser blocks around your pool.

Filling the gap with blue metal dust is actually a good idea. The only drawback of course is that when you walk over it, it sticks to your feet and spreads around. 

I agree with your choice of using Selleys 600ml Grey Flexiseal Polyurethane Construction Sealant. It's rated for outside use, flexible and will work with a variety of materials. Before you start applying it to the gap, I recommend using your vacuum cleaner to suck up all the blue metal dust to clear out the gap. I suggest using water, detergent and a scrub brush to clean the gap so that it will be free of oil, grease and debris.

Once it is totally dry, you can begin filling the gap with sealant. 

Here is a handy step-by-step guide: How to silicone seal a bath (the techniques used are applicable to your project)

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves and goggles when working with sealants.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric
 

[Sheeba]

Thank you Eric, would grout be another option and Is that better option compared to sealant ? Thoughts?

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Sheeba,

It's best not to use rigid products like grout on areas that can experience movement, such as joins between structures or areas. Polyurethane sealant is the correct product to use as due to its flexible nature, it won't crack.

Apply masking tape on the tiles so any excess filler can easily be removed with the tape later. Also, once you've applied the sealer, you can use a gloved finger to smooth off the sealant and contour it to look nice. It's best to dip that finger ins soapy water as that aids with the smoothing process.

Please let us know if you have further questions.

Mitchell