Polymer Sand for Pavers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Installation and Benefits

Explore an innovative approach to paver installation with polymer sand, because it promises durability, cost efficiency and a simplified process.

Polymeric sand is a game-changer for anyone looking to install or maintain pavers with unmatched durability and aesthetically pleasing results. This innovative material enhances the cohesion between pavers, providing a firm yet flexible bond that resists the invasion of weeds and pests, maintains its color, and withstands the test of time.

Perfect for a myriad of outdoor projects like patios and driveways, polymeric sand also simplifies installation and reduces the effort required for upkeep.

In the following article, we’ll dive into the benefits and application techniques of polymeric sand, ensuring you’re equipped with the know-how to achieve professional-grade results for your paving needs.

What Is Polymeric Sand?

Polymeric sand is a fine-grained sand combined with additives, typically silica, and binders like polymers, which, when mixed with water, create a strong, flexible bond. This specialized sand is designed to harden and lock pavers in place, offering several benefits over traditional sand:

• Adhesion: Once wetted and dried, the polymers act as a powerful adhesive, reducing paver movement and maintaining the integrity of your pavement’s pattern.
• Permeability: While firm, it still allows water to permeate, promoting drainage and reducing puddling without compromising the pavement’s stability.
• Longevity: It’s more resistant to the elements, withstanding erosion from rain, wind, and even cleaning procedures far better than regular sand.
• Ease of Use: The installation process is user-friendly — you simply sweep it into the joints, tamp it down, and use water to activate the binding process.
• Weed and Pest Deterrence: Its robust structure helps to discourage weed growth and deters ants and other insects from burrowing through the joints.

These properties make polymeric sand a preferred choice for both do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional pavers aiming for a long-lasting finish on patios, walkways, and driveways.

Why Choose Polymeric Sand for Paver Jointing?

Polymeric sand, a blend of fine sands and specialized polymer binders, forms a strong adhesive uniquely designed for paver joint filling. Its use offers a suite of benefits to enhance your outdoor spaces:

Increased Durability: The binding agents in this sand lock pavers firmly in place, resisting movement and reducing the likelihood of erosion over time.

Weed and Pest Resistance: Thanks to its solid binding once set, it discourages weed growth and deters ants and other insects from burrowing between the pavers.

Color Longevity: Available in various hues, it complements the color of your pavers and maintains its vibrancy far longer than traditional sand.

By choosing polymeric sand, you’re investing in a stable, weed-free, and visually appealing paved area that requires less long-term maintenance.

Increased Durability

Polymeric sand enhances the longevity of paver joints significantly better than regular sand. By creating a strong yet flexible bond between pavers, it reduces the need for frequent maintenance.

The addition of polymers to the sand ensures that once it sets, it becomes highly resistant to erosion caused by weather conditions such as wind, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles.

This durability also means that the joints are less likely to crack or wash away over time. With its ability to resist the growth of weeds and deter pests like ants, the structural integrity of your pavement is maintained for longer periods, ensuring a pristine appearance with minimal effort.

As a result, pavers remain securely in place, providing a stable and safe surface for pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

No More Weeds or Ant Infestations!

Polymeric sand contains additives that form a strong bond when activated by water. This bonding seals the paver joints, making it difficult for weeds to take root due to the absence of space and soil they need to grow.

As for ants, the hardened joints deter them from burrowing, effectively preventing anthills between your pavers. Regular sand, on the other hand, does not offer these protective features, often leaving room for weeds and pests to proliferate.

So, by opting for polymeric sand, you’re not just enhancing the look of your pavers but also protecting your outdoor space from unwanted guests.

Rich and Varied Colors

Beyond functionality, polymeric sand enhances the aesthetic appeal of pavers by offering a range of colors to complement different paving materials and design preferences. From subtle shades that match the pavers to contrasting hues for a bold statement, the selection caters to diverse tastes. This versatility enables homeowners and designers to create visually stunning outdoor spaces.

The color stability of polymeric sand also means that the vibrant appearance is maintained over time, resisting the fading effects of sunlight and weather exposure.

Applications of Polymeric Sand

Polymeric sand is a versatile material suited for various applications in outdoor construction, particularly where pavers are involved:

1. Patio Paving: When setting up a new patio, the joints between the stones or bricks can be filled with polymeric sand to lock them in place and resist weed growth.

2. Walkways and Pathways: The material is ideal for pathways because of its flexibility. It accommodates the slight movements caused by foot traffic and changing temperatures.

3. Driveways: Since it can withstand the weight of vehicles, polymer sand is often used to enhance the stability of driveway pavers.

4. Pool Decks: Close to water bodies like pools, it helps to reduce the washout of joint sand due to its binding properties and resistance to erosion.

5. Retaining Walls: While not its primary use, polymeric sand can also work for certain retaining wall blocks to help provide additional stability.

By choosing polymeric sand for these applications, homeowners can assure the longevity and aesthetics of their outdoor paved surfaces.

Polymeric Sand Vs. Regular Sand for Pavers

Regular sand, the traditional choice for filling the joints between pavers, is known for its ease of application. However, it doesn’t offer the same stability and protection as its modern counterpart. Polymeric sand contains fine grains of sand combined with special polymers that, when activated with water, bind the sand particles together. This binding effect creates a strong, durable joint that resists the effects of erosion caused by water, wind, and ice.

In contrast to regular sand:

• Polymeric sand reduces the likelihood of weed growth and insect infestations in the joints due to its solidity and lower porosity.
• The enhanced adhesive properties prevent the sand from washing away during rain or when cleaning the pavers.
• It adapts well to a variety of weather conditions, maintaining integrity in the face of temperature fluctuations that can cause regular sand to shift or scatter.
• While regular sand can need frequent replenishment, polymeric sand provides long-lasting results, reducing maintenance efforts and costs over time.

Choosing the right type of sand for your paving project is crucial for the longevity and aesthetics of the installation. Polymeric sand, by offering superior durability and reduced maintenance, stands out as the preferred choice for professional-looking and long-lasting paver joints.

Joint Size Considerations

Selecting the right polymeric sand for your paver project is key, and joint size plays a crucial role. If you’re working with narrow joints, typically less than 1/8 inch wide, opt for fine-grained polymeric sand. This ensures the sand can properly penetrate the tight spaces between pavers for a secure bond.

Conversely, for wider joints—those over 1/8 inch—choose a coarser polymeric sand. This variety is designed to accommodate the increased space, ensuring that the joints are properly filled. This keeps them stable and prevents shifting.

It’s worth noting that some premium polymeric sands are versatile and can be used for a range of joint sizes, making them a flexible option for various projects. Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the ideal joint sizes for their sand product to ensure optimal performance.

Preparation for Polymeric Sand Application

Before you dive into the world of polymeric sand, getting your pavers ready is key to ensure a strong, beautiful finish.

First, make certain that your paving stones are dry and free of any old jointing material, which might prevent the sand from settling properly.

Thorough cleaning of pavers, using a broom or a blower, will remove debris that could impact adhesion.

Be attentive to the weather forecast; a clear, dry day is ideal as moisture can prematurely activate the sand.

Lastly, check that the sides of your pavers are stable—this will prevent the sand from washing out and maintain the integrity of your project over time.

Proper Application of Polymeric Sand

Before applying polymeric sand, ensure that your pavers are dry and clean. Sweep the sand into the paver joints, filling them completely. Use a broom to push the sand across the surface. For an even surface, a vibrating plate compactor can help settle the sand into the joints, but be cautious with delicate materials.

Clear any residual sand from the paver surfaces to prevent hazing. When finished, a leaf blower tilted at a low angle can blow away excess particles without disturbing the filled joints. Now, your pavers are ready for the crucial step of watering, which will activate the binding properties of the polymeric sand.

Watering Protocol for Polymeric Sand

Water activates polymeric sand, leading to its hardening process. It’s essential to follow a correct watering protocol to ensure the sand bonds properly without washing away or causing hazing on your pavers.

Here’s a brief guide to help you master the watering step:

• Start with a gentle shower: Use a hose with a spray attachment set to “shower” mode to evenly dampen the sand. This prevents the forceful water stream from displacing the sand from the joints.
• No flooding: Only apply enough water to saturate the sand. Excessive water can cause the polymers to wash out before setting.
• Work in sections: If you’ve got a large area, divide it into sections. Water each section thoroughly before moving on to the next, ensuring all areas are evenly wetted.
• Stick to a schedule: Typically, you’ll need to water the sand 2-3 times within the first hour of application. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for precise timing.
• Watch the weather: Avoid watering if rain is expected within the first 24 hours after application, as this can hinder the curing process.

Adhering to this protocol safeguards the integrity of your paver joints, ensuring a long-lasting finish.

Traffic and Protection Post-Application

After applying polymeric sand, it’s crucial to keep foot and vehicle traffic off the pavers for at least 24 to 48 hours. This allows the product to set and harden properly. Cover the area with a tarp if there’s rain in the forecast since excess water can wash out the sand before it sets. Avoid heavy cleaning or hosing down the area during this period to prevent disturbing the joints. Stick to these guidelines to ensure a solid and stable paver installation.

Applying a Sealer After Polymeric Sand

Once your polymeric sand has been properly laid and set, applying a sealer can be the final step in achieving both aesthetic and functional excellence for your pavers. A sealer locks the sand in place and enhances the durability of your pavement. It adds a protective layer that resists the effects of weather, helping to maintain the sand’s color and reducing the chances of erosion over time.

Sealers come in various finishes, from matte to high gloss, letting you choose according to the desired look for your outdoor space. They can also protect against stains and spills, which is a plus for pavers in dining or grilling areas.

It’s crucial to wait until the polymeric sand is completely dry before applying the sealer. The dry time can vary based on specific product instructions and local weather conditions, so patience is key. Additionally, ensure that the paver surface is cleaned prior to sealing to prevent trapping dirt or debris under the sealant layer. When you’re ready to apply, use a pump sprayer or a roller specifically designed for sealants, and apply evenly to avoid pooling. Always follow the sealer manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results.

Polymeric Sand Calculator

Estimating the amount of polymeric sand you’ll need doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With a polymeric sand calculator, you can input the area of your paving project, paver size, and joint width to receive an accurate quantity required for your job.

Here’s why using a calculator is beneficial:

• Precision: Avoid buying too much or too little, ensuring your budget is spent wisely.
• Time-saving: Quickly determine what you need without manual calculations.
• Convenience: Online calculators are readily available and easy to use.

Simply measure your area (length and width), determine the joint size, and the depth to which the sand must fill. Plug these numbers into the online calculator, and it will do the rest, guiding you toward an efficiently executed paving project with just the right amount of polymeric sand.

Common Mistakes When Using Polymeric Sand

Using polymeric sand requires attention to detail to avoid problems that can compromise the integrity of your paving.

First, ensure that you completely clear away all excess sand from the surface of the pavers before adding water. The remaining sand particles could bond to the surface upon contact with moisture, making it very difficult to remove the haze that can form.

Moreover, filling the joints correctly is crucial. If you under-fill the joints, the sand won’t properly harden, which could lead to instability and washout. On the flip side, over-filling can cause similar surface hazing issues and prevent the sand from setting correctly.

The watering process is precise; too much water can flood and erode the joints, while too little won’t adequately activate the binding agents within the sand. Follow the product’s instructions to ensure proper moisture content and setting.

Lastly, check that all your pavers are properly secured. If they shift after the sand has been applied and activated, it can lead to unevenness and necessitate repairs.

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your paver joints remain strong and look professional for years to come.

Not Removing Excess Sand

Ensuring a pristine finish after setting your pavers relies on the complete removal of excess polymeric sand from the surface. Leftover grains can create a hazy residue once activated by water, impacting the appearance of your hardscape. To avoid this common pitfall:

• Use a leaf blower at a low setting to gently clear the surface, making certain all excess sand is blown out of the paver surface textures.
• Sweep the area methodically with a fine-bristle broom to collect stray particles, especially focusing on crevices where sand might be trapped.
• Perform a final check by passing a soft cloth over the pavers to catch any residual dust.

By exercising care in this step, you prevent the sand from inadvertently forming a bond on the paver surface, ensuring a clean and polished look once the job is complete.

Over- or Under-Filling Joints

Filling paver joints to the appropriate level is crucial for optimal performance of polymeric sand. Over-filling can cause a hazy residue on the surface of pavers, as excess sand not swept clean solidifies upon wetting. Conversely, under-filling can lead to joint instability and increased erosion over time.

To strike the right balance:

• Ensure that joint heights are consistent across your paver surface.
• Sweep the sand into joints until they are filled to just below the chamfered edge of the paver or 1/8 inch below the top to allow for compaction.
• Use a hand tamp or a vibrating plate compactor for even distribution within the joints and to help the sand settle.
• Remove any excess sand from the paver surface before the wetting process, using a leaf blower at a low setting angled away from the joints to avoid disturbing the filled sand.

Careful attention during this stage saves time and resources, establishing a steadfast paver system.

Improper Watering

Water plays a critical role in activating polymeric sand and ensuring its bonding strength, but there’s a fine line between the right amount and too much. It’s essential to apply water carefully and evenly. Follow these guidelines to avoid mishaps:

1. Gentle Shower: Use a garden hose with a spray attachment set to “shower” mode. A harsh stream can dislodge the sand.

2. Stages: Don’t saturate the joints immediately. Start with a light misting to dampen the sand, followed by a few more sessions, allowing a few minutes in between for absorption.

3. Don’t Flood: Prevent pooling of water on the paver surface; it can wash away the polymers crucial for locking the pavers in place.

4. Consistency: Ensure all joints receive equal treatment. Missed spots can lead to uneven setting and weakened areas.

5. Follow Instructions: Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the exact watering procedure as products can vary.

The goal is to activate the binders without washing the sand away, leading to a strong, cohesive paver surface that will last for years.

Unsecured Pavers

Ensuring pavers are securely in place before applying polymeric sand is crucial. Unsecured pavers can shift, leading to uneven surfaces and gaps where sand can escape. To avoid these issues:

• Tamp down pavers firmly to create a stable base.
• Double-check for wobbly pavers and reset them as needed.
• Fill underneath with appropriate material if pavers sink when stepped on.

This attention to detail will help polymeric sand perform its best, keeping your pathways and patios looking sharp and well-maintained.

When to Call a Professional

While many homeowners successfully install polymeric sand with their pavers, certain situations may call for professional expertise:

• Large-scale projects: A professional can efficiently handle larger areas, ensuring consistency in application.
• Complex patterns: Intricate paving designs require precise joint filling to maintain the intended aesthetic.
• Uneven surfaces: Professionals can address underlying issues to prevent future misalignment or sand erosion.
• Drainage concerns: Specialists can ensure proper drainage to avoid water pooling and sand washout.
• Maintenance issues: If existing polymeric sand has failed, a professional can diagnose and repair the underlying problem.

Seeking professional help can save time and ensure the longevity of your paver installation.

FAQ

What is the downside to polymeric sand?

The major downside to polymeric sand is its potential for mishandling, particularly when the manufacturer’s instructions are not adhered to correctly.

Is polymeric sand or regular sand better for pavers?

Polymeric sand is better for pavers as it prevents the onset of pests like weeds and bugs, unlike regular sand.

How to do polymeric sand on pavers?

To apply polymeric sand on pavers, distribute the sand across the pavers, sweep it into the joints, solidify the sand by tapping the pavers with a blunt object, and continue this process until the sand level is within 1/8” from the top of the paver.

How long does polymeric sand last between pavers?

Polymeric sand typically lasts for up to 10 years, but with high-quality polymeric sand, the longevity can extend to approximately 15 years between pavers.

What are the key factors to consider while choosing between polymeric sand and regular sand for pavers?

When choosing between polymeric sand and regular sand for pavers, the key factors to consider are the installation process, cost, durability, degrading factors such as weather and weed growth, maintenance needs, and aesthetic appearances.

Can polymeric sand be applied to old pavers, and if so, how is it done?

Yes, polymeric sand can be applied to old pavers by thoroughly cleaning the pavers, removing any existing joint material, adding the polymeric sand, and compacting and setting it with water.

Can the color of polymeric sand influence the aesthetic appeal of pavements?

Yes, the color of polymeric sand can enhance the aesthetic appeal of pavements as it complements the pavers and creates a visually pleasing contrast.

Recap