What are the benefits of polymeric sand?

What is the advantage of polymeric sand?

The primary benefit of polymeric sand over using regular sand is that it hardens up. By solidifying and bonding to the surround pavers, it provides an extra line of strength to keep the pavers together and to help prevent shifting.

Do you really need polymeric sand?

Polymeric sand is the more reliable and durable option for filling in the paver gaps. It outperforms regular sand when a homeowner is looking to lock the paver joints properly and wants a steady and stable path. It also provides a better appearance with its cleaner look and availability in varied colors.

When should you not use polymeric sand?

#6 - Too Narrow or Too Wide Joints

The sand is simply pushed out of the joints. This is why we don't recommend using polymeric sand on extremely narrow joints. Similarly, too-wide joints can lead to washout, because they allow too much water flow during the activation process.

How long does polymeric sand last?

Polymeric sand can last up to 10 years before replacement is necessary. However, certain manufacturers claim some products can last up to 15 years.

What Is Polymeric Sand?

Will water drain through polymeric sand?

Polymeric sand, if installed properly, will harden to lock you pavers in place and create a more effective weed and insect deterent while still allowing water to drain freely.

Will rain mess up polymeric sand?

In general, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after any significant rainfall to proceed with the installation of polymeric sand. Understandably, it is not recommended to lay jointing sand in the rain, or when precipitation are expected in the hours following your work.

Can you pressure wash polymeric sand?

You can't pressure wash and apply polymeric sand on the same day. I should warn you that getting the stain off is a huge problem so it's best to take the time to avoid it in the first place.

Can you apply polymeric sand twice?

First, you run the danger of disturbing your base/shifting your pavers. Secondly, you will have to wait a day while the surface dries before you can reapply your new sand. Remember polymeric sand and moisture don't mix until after it's in the joints!

What can I use instead of polymeric sand?

When looking for alternatives to polymeric sand, you will also want to find high quality materials. There are other products, such as EnviroSAND, EnviroSTONE and EnviroPATH on the market that are able to stop water erosion from occurring.

How deep should polymeric sand be?

Polymeric Sand needs a minimum depth of 4 cm (1 ½”) to be effective. Use a power washer to empty the joints. If there is already polymeric sand between the pavers, soak the sand to soften it up before emptying the joints.

Does polymeric sand prevent ants?

Polymeric sand bonds together and resists washing out of paver joint, even in heavier rains. Resists Ant Infestation- Ants and other insects love to make the sand of your brick paver system their home. They get in through the joints and tunnel their way into the sand base.

Does polymeric sand harden like concrete?

particles is another step that is often rushed through or skipped to save time. However, once water is applied, any remaining polymeric sand particles will harden and remain on the surface resulting in an unhappy customer.

Will polymeric sand stop pavers from moving?

If you're looking for a way to improve the stability of your paver patio or walkway, polymer sand is a great option. Polymeric sand helps to hold the pavers in place and prevents them from shifting or moving.

How long does polymeric sand need to dry?

Best appearance is achieved by eliminating all polymeric jointing sand from surfaces. A minimum of 24 hours drying time is required prior to allowing foot traffic and 48 hours for vehicular traffic on the paver surface.

What is the best sand for paver joints?

Premium joint sand is the best choice with it comes to refilling and restoring your missing paver joint sand. Compared to polymeric sand, premium joint sand takes less absorption and drying time which makes the restoration process faster and more efficient.

Why does polymeric sand fail?

Epic Fail #1: Too much or too little watering.

A polymeric sand installation requires the use of a controlled and methodical watering technique. Using too much water can cause the sand to wash out of the joints. On the contrary, using too little can result in the product not setting up properly.

Do I have to remove old polymeric sand?

But unlike normal sand, the compound hardens very quickly when you expose it to moisture or water. Thus, you must remove polymeric sand from pavers' surface before you finish your project. Still, the polymeric sand usage in paving projects is probably one of the best choices when it comes to sand types for joints.

How do you maintain polymeric sand?

To maintain polymeric sand joints, keep a bag of this high-grade sand at hand so that you can use it whenever the need arises. You need to keep the package away from sunlight in a dry place. Do not take the sand out of its package unless you are applying it.

How do you remove the haze from polymeric sand?

Poly Sand Haze Tips

If poly sand haze has transpired on the surface, it must be cleaned with an acid-based cleaner. Sometimes vinegar can be used unless the poly sand haze is severe. Many times, homeowners and even contractors are unaware of poly sand haze.

How do you prevent moss from polymeric sand?

The best way to control moss on your pavers is to keep them clean, dry, and wash them several times a season. You can treat them regularly with a 10-15% bleach solution as a preventative measure. Although sealing your pavers will not prevent moss, it can limit the amount of moisture in the pavers and joints.

Why is my polymeric sand bubbling?

Again, the telltale signs of a job gone wrong will be: Sand has washed out of the joints. Sand has spilled over onto the surface of the pavers, creating a hazy residue. Joints are bubbling or not hardening up after the recommended setting time.

How often should you water polymeric sand?

Generally speaking, you'll want to perform three rounds of watering. The initial showering should be done at a height of about 4 ft. Wait no more than three to four minutes before performing the second round of showering at a height of about 2 ft.

What color polymeric sand should I use?

The use of black sand will emphasize the dark undertones of the paver, grey sand will highlight the mid-tones, and tan sand will blend with the highlights.