Best way to stop weeds coming thru paving stone gaps ?

[CW1]

Hi,
Got a lot of weeding to do, between paving slabs round the back, & in a brick drive at the front (a pretty big area). Once I've done it, what's the best way to stop the weeds coming back ? Sure I've used sharp sand before - that was on a small area though - but is there a better way ? Have a cat so don't want to use a weed killer. Do I need to water sharp sand to get it to harden ?
And I'm no gardener ... ;o)

[Answerprancer]

Stop thinking of them as "weeds" and more as indigenous plants, strim the bulk of them but allow some. I'm glad you don't want to use "weed" killer.

[chas2008]

http://www.agardenfor...-vinegar-not-roundup/

[rowanwitch]

rather than just sharp sand use a 5-1 mix of sand and cement brushing it well into all the cracks then if it doesn't rain sprinkle gently with water and sweep away any that has stuck to the surface of the paving with a very stiff brush.

[woofgang]

pathclear is good and not harmful to animals once it had dried.

[woofgang]

....and I hit submit too soon again. I have also got a weed wand that cooks the weed and kills it that way....not expensive, and not weedkiller but tedious if the area to be treated is large.
pS WEEEED WEEED WEEEEEED ha ha

[rowanwitch]

another option is to use a paint roller on a long pole to paint weedkiller on the weeds it only goes where you want it to keep the cat in until it dries

[carolroi21]

This is beyond irritating, it often makes me want to relocate overseas!!! Honestly, the best thing you can do is hire someone to do it for you!

http://www.jackwellsted.com/

[CW1]

Oh no, they're DEFINITELY weeds ! lol
"A herbaceous plant not valued for use or beauty, growing wild and rank"
Think that covers it ! lol

Have seen those wands advertised, woofgang, but heard they were hard work for poor results. And the drive is quite large. & VERY "weedy" !

Appreciate the suggestions though, many thanks.

[CW1]

You want me to move, carolroi21 ?? I know they're a pain but ...

[Answerprancer]

Nah, it doesn't 'cover it'.
I'm on one about so called "weeds" - come over to my thread and be converted :-)
http://www.theanswerb.../Question1146601.html

[SpikeyBush]

When I did my back garden I got a big sheet of black plastic, made a few holes in it to let the rain through. Put it down under decorative gravel. The odd buttercup comes up at the edge but they are easy to pull up. There are no more docks or nettles sprouting in the middle.

NB I have made space behind the oil tank for some nettles to keep the butterflies happy.

[CW1]

Looked at your thread answerprancer & no, I'm not converted. Not in the slightest.
Not so bothered in the garden though they are unsightly, anything in the lawn just gets mown, but at the front they look awful. Kerb appeal ? Anyone looking would think I take no pride in my house, & it does get to the point where anyone visiting (even the postie !) has to wade thru' them, but the truth is I don't have time (or the inclination - to me, "gardening" is a chore) to keep it looking tidy all the time.
I appreciate they have value re wildlife, but not in a drive or patio. They need to be stopped ! :o)