This will repel water, turn the sand rock hard and keep dirt and weeds from growing in between. Joint Sand Image Credit: LianeM, Shutterstock. 3:47p, 8/4/10. By doing this, this sand prevents water from slipping in through the joints and weakening the base. Another major difference here is of course that polymeric sand is only used in between joints, whereas joint stabilizing sealer is also applied to the pavers themselves. This non-staining sand resists erosion, weed growth and insects. activation and quickly becomes resistant to water erosion (rain, splashes, sprinklers, etc. 4. of the sand Mold and Moss Prevention Does not allow water to penetrate and will dry faster. Poly sand needs to go the full depth of the paver, or close to it. Run a plate compactor and reapply. First, use the utility knife to open the sandbag. Polymeric sand contains binders that, when wet,. 3. What is the difference between polymeric sand vs. Get in contact right now through the number +1 941 586 9140 for a free estimate on your hardscape project. Pour 4 inches of gravel into the area, level with a rake, and compact using a temper. Silica is such as an additive and is often used to help lock the fine sand particles together. : If the area is prone to heavy rainfall or flooding, additional drainage solutions may be necessary. It took the already low-maintenance brick paver patios we were installing down to nearly zero maintenance. With so many different types of pavers to choose from, it can be challenging to pick the right one. Durability. Simply sweep Quikrete 50 lb. In this article, we will discuss what polymer sand is, how it's used, and some of its benefits. It is easy to distribute regular sand to create a leveled base to install pavers. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that's often recommended for paver joints. Optimal performances in high-humidity environments, heavy vehicular trafic areas and steeper terrain. May 12, 2023 - Homeownership means constantly finding projects to work on. Crystalline silica. AG. This special polymeric sand will bind the sand particles together when reacted with water but will not cause a problem known as poly haze. Water the sand according to the directions. Besides that, its versatility, low dry time, and durability make it a very attractive option. The publication explains that, when. Polymeric sand is a specialized construction material typically used for landscaping projects like sealing pavers and driveways. Gator Nitro gets hard from top-to-bottom (so there’s very little flexibility within the joint). Continue to add sand and compact it until the sand reaches the top level of the pavers. But if you're working with larger, natural stones with irregular. How To Use Polymeric Sand When Installing Pavers. Super Sand is a fine, dried sand product that has polymers added to it that when activated with water will harden up to resist being washed or blown out of joints less than 1/2″. Another major difference here is of course that polymeric sand is only used in between joints, whereas joint stabilizing sealer is also applied to the pavers themselves. Stone dust is a good alternative--it does not wash out or displace as easily as paver sand--costs less than polymeric but a bit more than sand. It’s ampere type of backbone used to filler in the joints between pavers, a product that’s created by mixing a fine sand with food – typical silica – and water to form a. Like Gator Supersand, the installation process of Gator Maxx is almost identical to using regular paver joint sand except for the application of water. Super Sand Bond is a unique mixture of polymer binders and calibrated sand. It is this sand that allows the interlocked mechanism to work. I think it is less porous. Polymeric sand vs. It’s a type of sand pre-owned to full in an joints between pavers, a product that’s created by mixing a fine sand with additives – usually silica – and water to form a binding agent. 1. Step 1: The first step you need to take while installing paver sand is to fight the prevailing weeds in your patio. Polymeric Sand vs Regular Sand for Pavers. Because of the polymer, the sand mixture has a tendency to stain in the same way that regular mortar stains brick. While regular sand is made out of a combination of tiny particles of. The solution lies with polymeric Sand which is used to fill the complete depth of the paver. Remove excess sand from the surface of the pavers. Accel Dust Preventing Paver Polymeric Sand 40-lb Saddle Tan Polymeric Sand. When applying the polymeric sand, it is important to use a tamper or vibrating compactor so that the polymeric sand settles down fully into the cracks; you don't want air pockets in it when it is setting. That's important to know when you have pavers. Check Price. This polymeric sand consists of a 10: 1 ratio of polymer and sand to form a strong and unbreakable substance for filling and mending hard surfaces. Put down paver base (compactible gravels) and DO compact for every 2" of subbase. Table of ContentsPolymeric Sand VS Regular Sand For PaversWhat Is Paver Sand?Polymeric Sand Uses for Paver#1. The purpose of polymeric sand is to limit weed growth and. Place a mat on the base of your compactor and layer sand between the paver gaps for maximum. What most people call “paver sand” is actually polymeric sand. Our formula reacts to water and creates a powerful bond with concrete and stone materials so that your paver joints remain strong and flexible. The installation of Gator Super Sand Bond is almost identical to using regular paver joint sand except for the application of water. It can be used for both residential and commercial types of applications. Traditionally, pavers’ installation for driveways, patios and walkways were made with regular sand. Hazing can also occur if sand residue isn’t. Sand be a critical component at creative inviting and durable walkways and paver patios. The heat will reactivate the polymers in the product and allow you to strip away the sand. 5. Cement is often combined with concrete sand and this mixture is then used to construct septic systems. If it isn’t applied correctly, things like a pressure washer will cause more harm than good. : 2: Choose. JJS. Water cannot really flow through hardened polymeric sand. Regular and polymeric sand have their pros & cons. Lay out the pavers first to determine the desired pattern, then. They’re Both Very Fine. (a)polymeric sand, it appears that sand is designed for this purpose, but many in the web said this doesn't actually work. All-purpose sand is the go-to product for sealing paver joints. Polymeric sand actually cures via drying, whereas Easy Joint cures through a chemical reaction with oxygen. It can be used for both residential and commercial types of applications. Silica sand, on the other hand, is used for making glass, metal casting, for. This assumes you sweep sand, vibrate and sweep a second time for traditional pavers (slab type wet cast pavers should not be vibrated). It does not work as well if you fill the joints with regular sand and then put a shallow layer of poly on top. This type of sand often comes into play at the end of a landscape paving. Why Use Polymeric Sand as a Paver Base. Regular Sand for Pavers would be erosion. Polymeric sand is made up of a mixture between fine grains and specific additive particles. The ICPI refers to joint sand in their tech spec sheet #2. Then I carefully followed instructions on the polymeric sand. Choosing the correct variety of sand is essential until seal this pavers and ensure that they are positioned firmly thus that who structure formers longer. Once this sand is in place, use a tamping tool to compact the sand into an even layer. Reply Quote. Today, we still offer the highest performing jointing products on the market. Check Price. A final layer is gently swept into the gaps, without the aid of any compaction. For a more solidified joint, polymeric sand is used which contains the same sand but with binders included into the mix which will react with moisture to form a solid erosion proof joint As the. Brush the polymeric sand into the gaps between the pavers, tamp it down with the compactor, and then lightly water to activate the polymer. Then, joint sand must be added to the areas between the pavers. When pressure washing pavers with polymeric sand, choose the right pressure washer and nozzle for the job. Next. However,. However, this is a very basic estimate, and it actually depends on the conditions faced by your paver, such as weather. Make sure your joints are dry. The best jointing product for any installation: concrete & clay. 5. Tip Choosing the correct. Polymeric will harden with water and help prevent weeds. And if you are a DIY-enthusiast like me, the list of projects is endless!Applying polymetric sand is a simple process. Put down 3/4" of sand. I do not know of a sealer used in conjunction with regular sand that give the same results as polymeric. com. It is specially designed to be applied in the joints of pavers. Polymeric Sand Concentrate,20 lbs-Polymers and. Once opened and exposed to the elements, it should be used within one year. 3. When all joints are filled, remove excess sand on surface. The hardened joints resisted weeds, ants couldn’t tear it up to. Joint-It Simple is an award-winning, polymeric sand alternative joint filler that is perfect for filling joints of pavers, flagstones, and slabs. PowerLoc Jointing Sand into the joints and mist with water; the product hardens, locking the pavers into place. Due to the hard acrylic surface that it creates, this substance has the ability to protect your pavers from stains, grease, oil, and fading. Versatile Applications: DOMINATOR XL Polymeric Sand can be used with various types of pavers, including concrete, natural stone, and clay, providing versatility and adaptability for your hardscaping and landscaping needs. In 1999, Techniseal launched the first-ever polymeric sand for paver jointing. Extend your season and get your jobs done this year! Don't worry about drying out your pavers to start filling. The jointing compound, or polymeric sand if you choose, will preserve your paver investment by protecting your patio, pool deck, driveway, or other hardscape feature from the effects of frost, erosion, weeds, and insects. Regular paver sand may be sold as all-purpose sand or jointing sand. The silica is a binding agent that helps to hold the sand in place. Polymeric sand is a popular option for sealing pavers due to its ability to harden and create a strong joint. Fast-setting, water resistant 90-minutes after installation. It is the most commonly used sand for pavers because of its high quality and durability. What works better for a project may not work as well for another project. regular sand? Regular sand is just natural fine sand from rivers or mining areas. Issues One of the most common sand-related problems is haze. Sand is ultimately a much safer option than stone dust for paving projects. Obviously, there are others, but this is probably an average mix of pavers you would see anywhere in the country. There are different brands of sand for pavers to suit all budgets and needs. Polymeric sand contains additives that help it harden and set, providing a more stable surface for the pavers. Used for matching with specific designs#4. Bag for Concrete Paver Joints up to 2", Slate Gray with Contractor Tip. Silica, found in polymeric sand, is one additive that helps keep find sand particles together. The recommended frequency for re-sanding pavers is every 2-3 years. The cost of the chosen hardscaping material and joint stabilization method should be weighed against the benefits and long-term maintenance requirements. EnviroSAND is flexible so cracking doesn’t occur in the joints. Durability. Regular sand is much more likely to slowly trickle out of the joints, leaving your pavers looking sloppy. You’ll have to spread the paver leveling sand on top and around the pipes and screed it with the 2×4. The purpose of polymeric sand is to fill the joints between pavers and to help stabilize the surface of a patio, walk, or driveway. Masonry sand: Fine-grained masonry sand can be used as an alternative to polymeric sand or regular paver joint sand. Polymeric sand is designed to fill the joints between pavers, creating an even surface and helping to keep the pavers locked together, preventing the movement of individual pavers. The binding agents in polymeric sand help lock pavers together and keep them together for a longer stretch of time. A water-activated polymer is introduced to the sand. However, you should think carefully about the long-term benefits; polymeric sand may cost more initially but add up to. Polymeric sand is a mix of different fine sands and other additives. This type of jointing sand is different from regular sand because it contains binders that help to hold everything together. Multiple factors make it such, but the low and affordable price is a huge reason for this. Use a broom to spread the sand out and guide it into the joints. While polymeric sand can provide some benefits, such as increased stability and weed. Patio installers prefer polymeric sand to regular sand because it sticks to pavers better and keeps the joints between them even and durable. Putting it very simply, polymeric sand prevents the growth of any biological life amongst the grout lines of pavers. 4. JJS. Table of ContentsPolymeric Sand VS Regular Sand For PaversWhat Is Paver Sand?Polymeric Sand Uses for Paver#1. the extra time it takes to drain doesn't warrant switching back to regular sand, and risking weed seed germinating into a nightmare. The key difference between dust and sand is the size of the joints between your stones. What I have found is a good even base is the most important part of the job. Benefits of Regular Sand. 9% weed free. A leaf blower on a very low setting is a good way to do this. I want to address all three of those, give you a brief description of what. 1. 5. Paver patios need sand to seal the pavers and make sure the structure is firmly in place and durable. In this blog post, we will break down the features and benefits of each type of best Polymeric Sand, so you can make an informed. This specialist sand contains a mixture of silica and quartz. com. Save yourself the headaches when it comes to the install of such. This works in the short-term to stabilize the pavers and prevent them from shifting or moving. Related Resources: #1. Stabilizes paver installations - follows soil movement. Step 6: Pour the Sand. Polymeric sand is usually good for about ten years, so re-sanding costs are saved when using this type of sand. 1. Whether you want your sand to be fixed or loose is the ultimate decision before deciding on the type. For one, you’ll get a more durable finish. Techniseal. Silica is an additive, in the sand that is often used to help lock the fine sand particles together. After months of sand loss, I contacted this company. In order to implement the goal, we recommend you use a non-selective herbicide. When applying the polymeric sand, it is important to use a tamper or vibrating compactor so that the polymeric sand settles down fully into the cracks; you don't want air pockets in it when it is setting. Use a blower to blast out the joints again. The reason polymeric sand remains strong over time in comparison to fine sand or regular paver sand is because of the special mixture of additive particles used in our ACCEL products. It is a mix of sand and special additives and is usually made of quartz, granite, marble or other similar materials. It should also be kept away from direct sunlight and temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 2. If you want to avoid this during the installation process, then cement-free polymeric is going to be the best option. Assuming you have a broom, a pressure washer, and a tarp, you will probably just spend around $2 – $4 for each 50lb bag of regular sand. Sep 27, 2020 - Explore Framing Nailers Guide's board "Polymeric Sand VS Regular Sand for Pavers", followed by 3,332 people on Pinterest. Power washing again will make a mess and drive out remaining sand. Most polysand manufactures refer to concrete overlay as a wet set application where you have the paver set on mortar, the reason they don't want you to use the regular polysand is because still allows water to sip trough then with froze it will start loosing up all the pavers, they have a different sand for this application where that sand is. A depth of 8 inches is suitable for 4 inches of gravel, 1 inch of paver sand, and pavers that are approximately 3 inches thick. Beyond their protective qualities, poly sands and. • Polymeric sand must be installed from the top of the upper layer of the drainage base to a height of 1/8” from the top of the paver or stone substrate. It can also be a long-term solution for repairing cracks on these surfaces. With Techniseal’s industry-leading. Polymeric sand is easy to mix with water and is compatible with different materials. Sand is a critical device to creating inviting and durable walkways and paver patios. If the area is large or has had 24 hours to cure and set, scrub brushes should be used. It’s suitable for a range of paver materials, including concrete, clay. Additionally, regular sand does not contain any chemicals or additives, which makes it a safe choice for those looking to avoid chemical exposure. 0. Understanding Polymeric Sand. Regular sand is more appropriately used for leveling the paver. 2. Step 3: Go through the Instructions. While a 50-pound bag of ordinary sand costs $2 to $4, its polymeric equivalent can range from $20 to $40. The sand for pavers joints can be replaced by pouring polymeric sand over the existing patio pavers or driveway pavers. What is Regular Sand? Polymeric sand is not used in all hardscaping projects. The polymer modified sand hardens as it dries. Over time there may be some washout with extreme water flow. Weed prevention is yet another reason to use polymeric sand vs. The sand will re-heal itself with the paver, sealing the crack. Once the joints are filled and the excess sand is swept away, wet the pavers with the help of a hose on a shower setting. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that contains a polymer that binds the sand particles together when it is activated with water. Sweep off excess sand with the push broom. You're still gonna need a regular maintenance program or some type of treatment to repel those weeds. Regular sand is cheaper and more readily available compared to polymeric sand. . It's economical, versatile and easy to work with. Tan Polymeric Sand. Step 2: Now you have to take the biggest challenge on your way to installing polymeric sand. If you’ve done this before, you may have used polymeric sand. Grout is generally an interior joint sealer, whereas polymeric sand is usually an outdoor joint sealer. Because if you use play sand instead of paver sand for paver, you’ll have to face unwanted painful scenarios. Superior Bonding: Polymeric sand contains additives that activate. • Pavers must be installed on a drainage base composed of an upper layer of a maximum 1 inch thickness of bedding sand and a lower layer of compacted crushed stone. Polymeric. Neither rain nor wind can wash away paving sand on a flat surface. After the material is added to the paved surface, water is added to the sand, causing the polymers to harden. That includes mold, mildew, weeds, and even insects. There are a couple of drawbacks to polymeric sand. You should regularly inspect your paver to see if there are any issues with the sanding. For more protection, it endures harsh. Keep repeating this step as many times as necessary to get rid of excess polymeric sand. Check the angle of the base surface with a level to ensure it still slopes away from the house. Polymeric sand is sand that has an adhesive in it. Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. ( 975) $35. The sand helps to secure the pavers in place, while also creating an aesthetic look to the finished project. At Landis Block we carry the SRW brand Pavermate Z3 products and Pavermate X-treme. Backed by a 15-year limited warranty. regular sand LANDSCAPING Variety of applications - Pavers, Flagstone,Natural stone, ConcreteHowever, your polymeric sand will hold firmly as paver filler if you keep everything in place without damaging the bricks and stones. Sweep in the sand. Laying pavers can create a stunning outdoor area like a driveway, path or patio. Both are going to cost the same price for installation, so it’s simply a preference. Protect from rain for at least 12 hours. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. BEST BANG. I would not however use it on block paving the suppliers say you need a fairly wide gap of 3mm and to go in at least 20mm. Reduces weed growth. Place a mat on the base of your compactor and layer sand between the paver gaps for maximum protection. I'm about to power wash my paver patio as well and had the same exact question. These heavy-duty materials can be used in between both pavers and slabs. Top 10 best non polymeric sand for paver. This will create a kind of “rail” system in which you will be able to move the 2×4. Nov 8, 2023 11:06 PM. EasyJoint is the All Weather Joint compound. Perfect for the jointing of Interlocking Paver. For more product information please call 215. Yield: 10 x 10 surface. Application . These are four of the most common mistakes users of polymeric sand tend to make. This will justify the reason behind choosing it for this purpose for sure. EasyJoint is the All Weather Joint compound. All-purpose sand is the go-to. As you can see, the price varies considerably. Although polymeric sand is very durable, mortar is simply more so. All purpose sand is a coarse product made up of mixed rock and minerals, while paver sand is a finely graded, kiln-dried sand that is specifically designed for use with pavers. Polymeric sand is fortified with polymer to prevent washout between pavers. Choosing the correct type of sand the essential to seal the pavers furthermore provide that they are laid firmly so such the structure lasts longer. Polymeric sand is a sand formula that is swept into the joints of pavers and natural stone to lock in the product, prevent weed growth and insects, and to provide the final touches of any hardscaping job. The main difference between the two is how they are used. It is sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand or hardscape sand. 2. Polymeric sand is not intended to be a replacement for. Smooth Seal Grey: Haze-Free Joint Sand. Furthermore, it looks exactly like regular paver, the difference is that, when wet, polymeric sand becomes a strong bonding agent that keeps the pavers. I haven't gotten a price yet on the techniseal, but the big box stores sell a $10, 30 square foot bag. These gaps will be filled with polymeric sand; Ensure that the surface is clean and free of any debris or dust before applying the polymeric sand; Pour the polymeric sand onto the paver surface. Install. Now pour the sand. Comes in only one color. See morePolymeric sand outperforms regular sand in terms of stability, durability, and weed control. When used in conjunction with the appropriate jointing material, paver sand helps to lock the pavers in place. It is a popular. Conventional sand or other types of aggregates will erode over an extended period of time. Regular sand is also typically cheaper than polymeric sand, making it more cost-effective for some projects. Accel. Watch on. EnviroSAND is a name brand polymeric sand alternative. . Homeowners don’t need to replace polymeric sand continuously. 2) It'll be covered in a layer of dirt. Six inches of loose base will compact down to approximately 4 inches deep. Yield: 10 x 10 surface; Skill Level: Beginner; Estimated Cost: $40 to $60; Polymeric sand often comes into play at the end of a landscape paving project, including projects involving concrete pavers, brick pavers, and stone pavers. Sweep a broom across the pavers at a 45 degree angle to fill joints. The jointing compound, or polymeric sand if you choose, will preserve your paver investment by protecting your patio, pool deck, driveway, or other hardscape feature from the effects of frost, erosion, weeds, and insects. Our formula reacts to water and creates a powerful bond with concrete and stone materials so that your paver joints remain strong and flexible. Check Price. Interior vs. Use a push broom to spread it and the. Then think about the desired thickness of the paver sand. 8. As the name implies, the Polymeric Sand is a mixture of the fine sands that are combined with polymers and other additives. Polymeric sand has come a long way since its inception in the early 2000s and is a quality product for a jointing compound these days. Polymeric sand was first introduced to the hardscaping industry about a dozen years ago, and we at Stonehenge started using it as soon as it was available in this market. Best bet for placing interlocking pavers is a 1 inch screeded area of coarse concrete sand. Polymeric sand is primarily used to fill the joints between pavers, rock, stone and other outdoor elements. It provides unparalleled protection for water damage, weed growth, and insects while being both easy to install and satisfying your personal color choices. Make sure it is screeded equally and no deviations. Here are the top 4 benefits of polymeric sand: Stronger Bond – Polymeric sand provides a stronger bond between pavers than regular jointing sand, helping to prevent weed growth, shifting, cracking, and other issues associated with the poor paver installation. But the fact of the matter is - in about 14 months it wont matter - 1) the color will wash out from the sun. Rain: Resists unforeseen rain 60 minutes after installation, requires 24 hours no rain. Without using the knife, you are very likely to get frustrated while opening the waterproof bag. Among all the alternatives, polymeric sand is preferred as there are some significant advantages to using polymeric sand vs. After paver installation, the sand would be swept into the paver joints. It takes about a minimum of 24 hours for polymeric sand to completely set. Polymeric sand is a blend of refined grains and a binding agent that, when combined with a little amount of water, sets to create a strong sealant everywhere in the paver joints. Whether using concrete or polymeric sand, fill the gaps evenly up to the level of the pavers using a push-broom. Polymeric sand is a particular type of sand that, when mixed with water, creates a binding agent extremely powerful that binds the sand particles together. Silica sand consists mainly of silica, quartz, clay, dust, and other such substances. Silica sand is the type of sand most often used in swimming pools and playgrounds. These heavy-duty materials can be used in between both pavers and slabs. Dominate your pavers with our joint stabilizing, self-healing, flexible and durable polymeric sand. Mortar and grout aren't ideal for most outdoor settings. 5-pound bucket. Washed Concrete Sand. Sand allows flexibility of the ground and keeps the pavers from cracking or settling under pressure. While the lifespan of any surface or paver joint can vary based on the climate and product type, polymeric sand usually lasts for 10 years. This creates a fairly strong bond between your pavers that is less likely to be eroded by weather. You’ll receive premium customer service from the moment you contact our office. For even better performance, use a hot water pressure washer at 180 ° F. Use a plate compactor to vibrate the sand down into the joints. On the other hand, polymeric sand can last for up to 10 or even 15 years before it needs to be replaced. A big benefit of Easy Joint is the fact that it is permeable. Polymeric Jointing Sand is a polymeric-modified graded sand for filling joints up to 2 wide between interlocking pavers, brick, natural stone and concrete slaps. COMPACTER TO VIBRATE THE PAVERS!) Continue to add sand until the joints are full. Make sure your joints are dry. Bought a house that already had pavers on the driveway. While you can use regular sand instead of polymeric sand for paver joints, it does not offer the same benefits. The following step-by-step guide will help you safely and effectively remove dried polymeric sand from the top of your pavers. In fact, any sand that has angular edges and a particle size of 1/8 inch in diameter is best. Stabilizes paver installations - follows soil movement. Yes, polymeric sand is superior to normal paver sand for several reasons. It’s sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand, or. Third, level the gaps so it is one surface instead of two uneven surfaces which will cause problems when applying concrete glue to hold everything together securely. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that contains additives that help bind the sand together. That said, many professional paving companies maintain that if you want to achieve an A1 finish, you should opt for polymeric sand, even though the costs.