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.

Can polymeric sand ruin pavers?

Polymeric sand hardens quickly

Rain activates the polymers before the sand is in the joints which will ruin your hardscape by producing a haze and adhering sand grains to the surface of the pavers.

What happens if polymeric sand gets rained on?

Installing polymeric sand on a damp or wet surface could cause the sand and polymers to stick to the surface and become difficult to remove. After installation, a hard rain on polymeric sand that has not fully set up could result in polymeric sand all over the top of the pavers.

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.

Can you use polymeric sand in cold weather?

For Gator polymeric sands, we recommend installing at a temperature of 32 degrees or above. There also shouldn't be any rain in the forecast within one hour of installation on a drainage base and within 24 hours of installation on a non-drainage base.

How To Use Polymeric Sand for Pavers

What temperature should you use polymeric sand?

You'll also want to check that thermometer because polymeric sand should be installed at a temperature of 32^∘F or above. IMPORTANT!

Why is my polymeric sand not hardening?

Polymeric sand cures by drying. And in order to fully set, it needs to dry out completely. If your polymeric sand didn't harden up, it's pretty much guaranteed there's a moisture issue. If the joints remain wet after the installation, they will remain soft until they dry.

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!

How long will 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.

Should I seal my pavers before polymeric sand?

If us- ing polymeric sand, you can install it after the sealer application has properly cured for 24 - 48 hours. If polymeric sand is installed prior to sealing, be sure surface is dry for 24 hours before applying sealer.

How long does polymeric sand need to dry before rain?

Because it takes time for sand to set, you'd be better off rescheduling the installation. It'll be worth the wait to avoid the risk of a potential disaster. In order for the paver joints to set properly, they ideally need two days of sun and dry weather. A hard rain could require you to start over.

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.

Can you put polymeric sand on wet pavers?

Proper wetting of the polymeric sand is essential for optimal stabilization of paver joints. To ensure that this important step is done right, we recommend that you generously water the sand until a thin whitish layer starts emanating from the paver joints.

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.

How do you remove dried polymeric sand from pavers?

How long does it take polymeric sand to harden?

A minimum of 24 hours drying time is required prior to allowing significant foot traffic and 48 hours for vehicular traffic on the paver surface. Polymeric sands are designed to soften and re-heal.

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.

Does polymeric sand crack?

UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. If you only have a crust, you don't have a proper bond in the joints. Eventually, the crust will break away, eroding the joint. It also causes cracks and gaps, because the sand hasn't fully bonded the entire depth of the joint.

Why is the sand coming out of my pavers?

However, since pavers are exposed to various elements such as rain and wind, the joint sand between pavers may get washed out overtime. Occasional washing can also cause the joint sand to corrode. This compacted sand plays an important role as it locks the pavers together.

How do you clean pavers without removing polymeric sand?

Wet The Patio With Water

After it's wet, then add some dish soap or a degreaser to a bucket of water. Using a brush that's stiff, pour some water and soap on the pavers and give it all a scrub. Keep it gentle, and don't go overboard on the scrubbing, so you don't damage any of the surfaces.

How often should you apply polymeric sand to pavers?

If you chose polymeric sand, even if exposed to the same circumstances as regular sand, it may last up to ten years (or more). Note that to increase durability, you can apply a sealer over pavers in both cases (polymeric and regular sand).

Why do my pavers always look wet?

A Paver Patio with Poor Drainage

Sunken pavers can lead to water “pooling” on top of the patio. Pooling can also occur when the pitch isn't correct. This could lead to low areas that will always collect water. But poor drainage can cause other problems as well.

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.

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.