Why the membrane does not help
A geotextile membrane under the sub-base does an important job — it stops the base mixing into the soil — but it has nothing to do with weeds on the surface.
Seeds land on top, settle into joints alongside decomposing leaf matter and grit, and root in that. A perfectly built driveway with empty joints will still grow weeds.
Keep the joints full
Full, well-compacted joints leave far less room for debris and roots. Topping up joint sand once a year, and always after pressure washing, is the most effective long-term control.
Where weeds are a persistent nuisance, a polymeric or resin-based jointing compound sets firmer than loose kiln-dried sand and dramatically reduces germination sites.
- Top up joint sand annually and after every wash
- Consider a polymeric jointing compound for stubborn areas
- Sweep leaves and debris before they break down into the joints
- Sealing stabilises joints and slows regrowth
Clearing what is already there
Pull or scrape out established weeds and their roots rather than just cutting the tops, then clear the joint properly before re-sanding. Leaving old root material in place invites regrowth.
Pressure washing clears joints thoroughly but strips them, so treat washing and re-sanding as a single task done on the same day.
If it is more than weeds
Heavy weed growth in a specific strip is sometimes a sign that water is sitting there and depositing silt. In that case the drainage or the falls are the real issue.
Similarly, weeds combined with rocking blocks means the joints and possibly the bedding need addressing rather than just weeding.
Frequently asked questions
Will sealing stop weeds completely?+
It reduces them substantially by locking the joint sand together, but no surface treatment is permanent.
Is a weed membrane worth adding under new paving?+
It is worth adding for base separation reasons, but do not expect it to control surface weeds.
Can I use weedkiller?+
You can, but it treats the symptom. Full joints and clean surfaces reduce how often you need to.
Do resin driveways get weeds?+
Essentially no, because there are no joints. That is one of resin's main practical advantages.
Want the joints sorted properly?
We clean, re-joint and seal block paving — and can advise whether resin would suit you better.