Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Tamping and joint sand question....

I am installing a 900 square foot patio over 4" of concrete using Cambridge pavers. I am laying the pavers over the slab with a 1/2 " layer of your run of the mill bedding sand. I am also using the same sand for sweeping into the joints.

My questions are...

1) Do I need to use a tamper to compact the pavers even if I have a solid concrete base with only 1/2 " of bedding sand? And the pavers are all very even.

2) Is there a secret to getting the joint sand into the joints without having to sweep so much? Maybe that's where the tamper would work the joint sand into the joints quicker and easier? Or sweep, hose with water, sweep, hose with water...etc. until joints are filled?

Thanks.

Don't tamp & don't wet it. Just keep sweeping.

Slowly but surely its coming along. I think the problem with sweeping in the joint sand was that it is a bit wet. I was able to dry some of it and it went into the joints much easier. Thanks.

I'm going to be sweeping wet sand too, in a day or two.