Lay out the pavers first to determine the desired pattern, then. Product overview EZ Sand is a mixture of sand and special additives that hardens with moisture for paving stone joints. 3. for joints 1/4 In. It has exceptional joint stabilizing properties, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as patios, pool decks, pavements, parking lots, and driveways. It is therefore much safer and more eco-friendly than silica-based polymeric sand. Coverage-sq-ft varies by joint width and depth. 10 Pound Titanium Gray DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand with Revolutionary Ceramic Flex Technology for Stabilizing Paver Joints/Gaps, 1/8” up to 4”, Professional Grade Results. I used a 24" push broom with fairly still bristles. However, once water is applied, any remaining polymeric sand particles will harden and remain on the surface resulting in an unhappy customer. +Concrete Dust. Polymeric sand is water activated and hardens after curing. Shop for Concrete Alternatives & Sand at Patrick Building Supply. 95 Bn in 2022. 1. Place the drill bit in the screw holes and drill the wood with a slight slope. 3. Compaction force of 3,080 pounds combined with 5,600 VPM also makes the Multiquip an efficient compactor for gravel, soil, and sand. It may be composed of limestone, granite or other rock, depending on your location and local building supplies. 5” wide. Dominator Polymeric Sand. To lock the pavers in place, you can use a sealer or glue. • Compact sand into joint spaces as thoroughly as possible. EasyJoint is the All Weather Joint compound. Looking for organic sand or materials for paving stones is one option. Family Handyman. Mortar. An open-graded paver base uses 1/4″-10 crushed gravel or crushed stone as its support layers. This will help to settle the haze back into the joints and help activate the polymers. Rated 4 out of 5 by DIY dad from Good quality and easy to use I built a raised patio recently and this was the only polymeric sand I could find to fill the 1/4" cracks between my pavers and retaining wall blocks. 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. Polymeric sand is not measured by strength; there is no accepted industry test method to test for the strength and durability of polymeric sand. 5 – 9 Bags. These include: Reduced installation time – A 100 square foot patio will only require around 20 panels instead of several tons of rock base. Without joint sand pavers will easily shift and spread which will cause the pavers to settle and have a sloppy look. 2. 10 Pound Titanium Gray DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand with Revolutionary Ceramic Flex Technology for Stabilizing Paver Joints/Gaps, 1/8” up to 4”, Professional Grade Results. Remove the topsoil and install the sand. What is polymeric sand? Polymeric sand is simply sand blended with polymers that act as bonding agents. EnviroSAND and white-washed sand are the two best alternatives to polymeric sand. Wider joints will require more time to harden. This is the most common polymeric sand replacement for many because of its easy accessibility. Unlike polymeric sand, natural sand is not permanent and is easy to. Exactly how fine stone dust is, however, depends on the exact stone dust you get, as some may be finer than others. The key difference between dust and sand is the size of the joints between your stones. Specifically developed the installation of flagstones and other surfaces not suited for mechanical compaction, NOCO is the first true alternative to mortar and stone dust. Every opinion here has and will be helpful to my final choice. However, you should think carefully about the long-term benefits; polymeric sand may cost more initially but add up. Polymeric sand can be used for various projects, though it is mostly required for compacting pavers and keeping them in place. It can be easily used as a joint filler for brick pavers. The hardened joints resisted weeds, ants couldn’t tear it up to. A big benefit of Easy Joint is the fact that it is permeable. Polymeric sand is a better solution to the problem. However, generally speaking, both feel more like a powder than they do like sand, stone, or grain. All pavers require sand. 9 KG bags. wide and 2 In. Minimum width between pavers: 1/16 in. 98 for a 40-pound pail at Home Depot) is suitable for joints ¼ to 1½ inches wide, while Accel Dust Preventing. for joints 1/4 In. Well, this sand is flexible, which makes it an ideal option for contractors and homeowners. If the workpiece turned out to be a little wider, it is necessary to knock out the “wings” with a hammer. 1. Rain, wind and. $134. deep. This makes polymeric sand more durable and longer lasting than some alternatives. Even though SmartSand offers lesser jointing performances, this poly sand is more than. In order to ensure the creation of a less permeable, compact, and unwashable sand layer, the material is created in such a way it hardens when wet for the first time. If you believe that polymeric sand refuses to harden because the sand was too saturated or there was rainfall before the compound managed to set, then. Block paving. Please feel free to call us at. Cement is an inexpensive, durable, and reliable alternative to polymeric sand. It is sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand or hardscape sand. Cement: Polymeric Sand Alternative. Add the Sand Layer. Better alternatives may emerge in the future but polymeric sand is your best option in the. 400 sqr ft. Brand: Techniseal. Spreading the Sand. Backed by a 15-year limited warranty. Cement; 2. Use a soft bristle broom and fill the gaps to their full depth. Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. Our guide will help you make the best decision for your next project. 4 polymeric sand alternatives: pros & cons (with pictures). Available in 15. Polymeric sand is definitely more expensive than the jointing sand alternative, but it does hold some advantages especially if you do not opt to use a joint stabilizing sealer. 7 kg | 50 lbs (bag) 56. Polymeric Sand. 97 Concrete Dust. The technology to crush glass into a material equivalent to sand does exist and is already in use, for example as an alternative to sand for pool filters. 4 out of 5 stars 8. Ceramic Flex Polymeric Sand for Perfect Patio Joints. No not if you don’t want to . The easy-to-find, most affordable sand is regular dry sand. If you only have a crust, you don't have a proper bond in the joints. Optional: vibratory tamper. regular sand for pavers. The sand is then swept away from the top of the pavers, and. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. . As noted earlier, the quality of material used to make a polymeric sand alternative influences its longevity. Eliminates joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. Polymeric sand can be found in a variety of colors, including tan, gray, and black. Should I use polymeric sand or regular sand? Polymeric sand is the more reliable and durable option for filling in the paver gaps. Wet polymeric sand would be much harder to get off the surface, so ensure the floor is completely dry. Here, we evaluated polymeric sand alternatives. The vibration of a compactor is vital to settling sand or polymeric sand into the joints between pavers. Higher quality products contain finer. pail will cover 30 to 45 Sq. Pavement. When it is combined with water it creates a strong bond that is ideal for filling in joints in pavers. It costs $50 to $75 per 27. Polymeric sand is fortified with polymer to prevent washout between pavers. If you’re installing a paver patio, you might wonder about the best options or joint materials for filling your paver joints. Density : 2. Coverage varies with the. When mixed with water, the polymer additives in the sand create a chemical bond that hardens the sand and locks the pavers together. Techniseal HP2 Polymeric Jointing Sand is a high performance polymeric sand that is suitable for use on a wide range of surfaces. This type of base is beneficial because it is porous and allows water to flow freely through. In Stock Today at: NABORS HOME CENTER. Step 1. The average cost of pavers and base materials is $4 to $6 per square foot, while labor runs $6 to $11 per square foot. Brock PaverBase Pros. Polymeric sand is ideal for filling the gaps between pavers as it promotes better drainage and won’t wash away. When choosing paver sand to use, it is best to stick with polymeric sand right now. This process may be. Brush the polymeric sand into the gaps between the. It's economical, versatile and easy to work with. It is a budget-friendly alternative to higher performance sand, for installations carried out in lighter-duty environments. As for the cost, it is really inexpensive, yes the bag may be $20 bucks or whatever, but you use very little of it to fill the gaps. Better Polymeric Sand Alternative,. 9 / 11. It contains 85 to 90% quartz and crystalline silica. Take care to uncover any fire pit holes that might have been lost beneath the sand. How to choose a backer rod alternative. Southwest Boulder & Stone. Alternative cleaning methods for pavers with polymeric sand. Provides the finishing touch for a quality installation. Second, it aids in the filling of any fractures or gaps between pavers. However, the performance of different types of polymeric sand fixers varies significantly. One of the biggest differences here is that polymeric sand is not water permeable. You may also be able to buy stone dust at your local Lowes or. Every opinion here has and will be helpful to my final choice. They didn't seem to have issues breaking. deep. Alternatives to polymeric sand are made with formulae suitable for your hardscaping projects. $134. This sand is commonly known as joint sand or leveling sand too. 97 $ 134. This product is recommended for residential projects such as pool decks, patios, and walkways. Despite the budget-friendly pricing, this polymeric sand offers a strong bond that protects against sprouting weeds and burrowing insects. Polymeric sand is a fine sand that is combined with additives that form a binding agent when exposed to water. Both polymeric and regular sand are types of sand that are used in the construction industry. Lastly, stone dust is another alternative to polymeric sand. It is vital to ensure that the weather isn’t going to count against you when you use polymeric sand for any project. 256 sqr ft. See moreBuilder’s Sand. It provides drainage, wont eat away at the pavers, and it compacts well. Filling joints between interlocking pavers and slabs has never been easier than with Sika FastFix-110, a high performance polymeric sand! Its superior quality provides for a. 1. Apply an even, 1-inch layer of sand on top of the compact gravel. 4. Sold by Even Bahat and ships from Amazon Fulfillment. Advertisement The bonding additives in polymeric sand cause sand to harden when wet, much the way concrete powder hardens after mixing it with water. In order to implement the goal, we recommend you use a non-selective herbicide. If you use polymeric sand in the joints, follow the installation instructions carefully to avoid discoloring the paver surface and to prevent problems. Joint-It Simple Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Grey 3. Silica is such as an additive and is often used to help lock the fine sand particles together. Alternative Permeable Bedding Course – 1” thick of 1/4” clear open-graded chip stone –. If your outdoor space incorporates various themes or styles, consider opting for neutral polymeric sand tones. With Techniseal’s industry-leading. Light a test fire once your sand has been evenly spread. Gator Maxx G2 helps prevent weeds and damage caused by ants. Most 24” sand filters need 250-300 pounds of sand. For example, you can use cement, Builder’s Sand, stone dust, Envirosand, Permasand, silica sand, or vermiculite as an option. Remove all excess EZ Sand from surface of project before wetting to prevent staining. These methods include using a broom, leaf blower, or garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle to remove debris and stains. 14. cmirrer Discussion starter. Eventually, the crust will break away, eroding the joint. Builder's Sand: Polymeric. Use a broom to fill gaps. While both of these Sherwin-Williams paint options are highly durable, it is safe to say that the ProMar 200 premium paint is the more durable choice. Choosing the Right Sand for You. Step 4: Pressure Wash the Surface. The polymeric sand stands up better to point loads within the joints and resists “washout,” when compared to traditional sand swept joints. The commercially available silica sand having a grain size of 150 µm is taken as filler material. Won’t be as good as polymeric sand obviously but it should give a mild set (harden after getting wet) Idk why you’d not just use sand alone as I’m not a mason but if you want it to harden you need just a little bit of cement mixed in (not concrete - that has gravel in it - cement powder specifically) The. You can also use cement as an alternative, but it is harder to apply. Joint-It Simple Dark Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Dark Grey. Builder’s Sand. Perfect for joints from ¼ to 4 inches wide, NOCO is the ideal jointing solution for pool decks, patios, and walkways. Jointing sand is made up of fine grains, to which manufacturers add a mixture of specific additive particles. This curing time is comparable to other types of sand, such as masonry sand. The writer. As stated by Today's Homeowner (2008), filling the joints between patio pavers can be done by using a pressure washer set to medium range (1600 to 2000 PSI) and hot water for even better. Today we talk about polymeric sand problems and how to solve them. Unlike polymeric sand, natural sand is not permanent and is easy to remove, leaving room for further adjustments. Immediately wet the jointing compound. For years, contractors, home improvement enthusiasts, and hobbyists alike have used polymeric sand for paving. Joint Width Range. A fine grade of sand, such as joint or play sand, or rock dust is not suitable for laying pavers. SmartSand Polymeric Sand. The sand base doesn’t need to be compacted. This video covers everything fr. Maximum width between pavers: 1 in. Visit Techniseal’s website for further details. Use the 2x4 as a screed to smooth and level the sand. The application of polymeric sand marks the final stage of any paving project. Polymeric sand is a handy ingredient that acts as a cement-like material to keep the pavers in place. That is probably why you had loose pavers. 3. Alternative products that can be used instead of polymeric sand include regular sand and paver base mix. Well, it’s fairly easy, but you have to be careful–the sand is mixed with a binder. 40 Lb. Water will pool up on top of it. Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Grey. Polymeric sand is easy to mix with water and is compatible with different materials. It took the already low-maintenance brick paver patios we were installing down to nearly zero maintenance. Polymeric sand is essentially a sand that when combined with water and something such as silica forms a tight bond. Polymeric sand and regular sand may both be used for filling the joints of pavers including bricks, paving stones, and natural stone. The Flexlock Ultra G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand formula offers a hassle-free application that’s simple enough for even inexperienced DIYers. Some alternatives like pea gravel or wood chips allow for natural drainage, while others like foam mats or coconut coir may need a perforated liner underneath. View on Amazon View on Walmart. But this can make up for the costly replacement as it lasts for a decade. If a polymeric sand is too hard, it can also make it too brittle, causing cracking from ground movement. Last year I used polymeric sand in the front yard and it seems to hold up much better than the staff I bought 10 years ago, but you still need to re-fill it as needed, probably once a year. It doesn't cause any. The polymeric sand market share is expected to increase by USD 31. 3. Yes, polymeric sand is superior to normal paver sand for several reasons. Read the Instructions. Apply. Back to Sand. Weed Resistance. Gator Maxx G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand (Beige) 50 Lb Bg with Home and Country USA Contractor Tips. One alternative you have to polymeric sand is the good old-fashioned mortar. 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. Alliance Gator Super Sand Review. If you are looking for an alternative to polymeric sand for your red pavers, there are a few options available that may provide better results. You could replace all of that with just 7-9 pounds of filter balls. EZ Sand 40 lbs. Understanding Polymeric Sand When mixed with water, the polymer additives in the sand create a chemical bond that hardens the sand and locks the pavers together. If you are looking for an alternative to polymeric sand for your red pavers, there are a few options available that may provide better results. Rain means that we cannot install. Most 24” sand filters need 250-300 pounds of sand. As the sand particles fuse, the joint between two patio pavers becomes impenetrable and the pavers are locked in place. four varieties for varying gap sizes. As the name implies, the Polymeric Sand is a mixture of the fine sands that are combined with polymers and other additives. Application Depth. Model # 117556 Store SKU # 1000108660. You could replace all of that with just 7-9 pounds of filter balls. Sand drains naturally, but other materials may require additional measures to prevent water buildup and mold growth. Polymeric Joint Sand is a great alternative to a regular torpedo sand for brick pavers. Extend your season and get your jobs done this year! Don't worry about drying out your pavers to start filling. EZ Sand is a mixture of sand and special additives that hardens with moisture for paving stone joints. It can be laid on a dry bed of sand and gravel or it can be mortared to an existing concrete slab. The utilization of this sand, however, raises certain concerns. An alternative method is to break one paver into pieces, then adjoining pavers can be removed manually by hand. If using polymeric sand, a tighter seam must be maintained: 1/4-inch to 1-1/2-inch. 7 out of 5 stars 24. Overall durability. 10 Pound Gray Beige DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand with Revolutionary Ceramic Flex Technology for Stabilizing Paver Joints/Gaps, 1/8” up to 4”, Professional Grade Results. How to use polymeric sand: Don’t cheap out on sand. This means that water can flow through it. This will help remove the polymeric sand without damaging the paver surface. # Preview Product; 1:However, you could use polymeric sand. I guess polymeric sand was used simply for speed of application (and a continuous look to the mortar). UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. It also causes cracks and gaps, because the sand hasn't fully bonded the entire depth of the joint. ” #4. Landscaping by Space. Alliance Gator Maxx G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand for Paver and Natural Stone Joints UP to 4”(Diamond Black) 50 Ib Bag with Home and Country USA'S Professional Contractor Tip. wide and 2 In. So I bought the 45 lb bucket. These holes are important for air flow and the overall success of your fire. Current Bid:. Pour polymeric sand over the patio, following instructions on the bag until all the gaps are filled. 1. Crystalline silica. Polymeric sand application is among the final steps in patio or path installation and is carried out after laying down all the pavers, tiles, or natural stones. Overview. Usually applied about 1/8 to 1/4 inch above paver surface. 98. Reduces weed growth. Fasten screws on all sides. For one, you’ll get a more durable finish. It takes 24 hours for the polymeric sand to cure. Allows for cleaner, easier and quicker jobs thanks to the Nextgel technology. Another option is regular sand, although it may require more frequent maintenance to prevent weed growth and erosion. Go with SAKRETE, The Pros Choice since 1936. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Joint-It Simple Dark Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Dark Grey at Amazon. However, this sand can only be used to fill. Sand is an integral part of most outdoor projects. Insufficient color options. When mixed with water, it forms a strong binding agent that can be used to fill spaces between pavers, tiles, and more. The gap between pavers will be about 1/8". [250 Pages Report] Registering a year-on-year (YoY) growth rate of 7. Lay the Flagstones. Next, use a pressure washer with a wide nozzle to gently remove the sand, being careful not to damage the pavers. In smaller areas, pour in more from a clean yogurt cup and use a hand broom. Easier to install and more durable than traditional hardscape aggregate, they also prevent weed growth and insect infestations. To prevent this, simply run a plate compactor with a protective pad over the surface of the pavement after sweeping the polymeric sand into the joints and sweeping any excess off. Shop Building Materials Concrete & Mortar Concrete Alternatives & Sand Sand Techniseal 40 Lb. 97. The first of the linked sub-pages in this section considers the use of Modified Mortars and of polymeric sand , which is best thought of as a special sand that is chemically. Deters ants and other insects. Wichita, KS . 4. I’m going to share with you some tips for how to buy the best Polymeric Sand Alternative without feeling overwhelmed. Alliance Gator Polymeric"Super" Sand, 50 lb. High Bidder: #34945. 0. I will need between six and eight 50 pound bags for the job, or the equivalent amount in smaller containers. Cleaning, Joint Sanding and Sealing. 97. Helps reduce joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. Polymeric sands have really come along way since their inception in 1999 by Techni Seal. When you’re creating your dream garden, the chances are high that pavers are going to be involved. Joint Width Range. We like to use a mixture of the shower and horizontal setting on the hose nozzle to move the jointing compound around the paving surface. by Techniseal. Polymeric sand produces a deposit on pavin. The values for bulk density and specific gravity of the silica sand are 1730 kg/m 3 and 2. Pavers must have a clean and dry surface for proper application. com. Pour your sand into the fire pit, creating an even layer roughly two inches deep. This type of sand was developed specifically to be used with paver joints to ensure everything can be held in place. But, it doesn’t provide as good weed-prevention qualities as polymeric sand can give. First, you can use regular sand as a bedding material to level the pavers. What is the difference between polymeric sand and regular sand? Unlike most sand used in construction and landscaping projects, polymeric sand is not a natural product. In terms of the day-to-day appearance of your pavers, polymeric sand may offer a cleaner look than regular sand. It’s that simple. For best results, apply with funnel or bag to insert EZ Sand directly into joints. Commercial and residential applications. 5 mm to 2. Filling gaps between pavers to stabilize and prevent weeds. While it has become a popular material used by landscapers and other professionals, polymeric sand isn’t commonly used by. Remove all excess EZ Sand from surface of project before wetting to prevent staining. It is also used to improve the stability of pavers and prevent them from shifting. You can buy stone dust at most stone yards and quarries. Polymer fortified to lock joint sand in place. Both May Be Used for Jointing Paving. Use the same type of irregular, sharp-grained sand as you did for the base and bedding layers. It is swept into the gaps between the pavers, which are then compacted to ensure the sand is distributed easily. Pete Ortiz. 4. The ICPI refers to joint sand in their tech spec sheet #2. The values for bulk density and specific gravity of the silica sand are 1730 kg/m 3 and 2. A higher-quality polymeric sand prevents weed growth and insect infestations more effectively and for a longer time. We prefer cement because it is sturdy, and can repair cracks and fill joints. Set aside ample time for the project, haste makes waste. This will ensure that your project remains in good condition and is constructed properly. Neutral colors, such as beige or gray, provide versatility and can adapt. Stabilizes paver installations - follows soil movement. The best alternatives to polymeric sand. Whatever your sand choice, simply sweep the sand into the joints between the pavers, being careful to. Foam sealant strip. EnviroSAND and white-washed sand are the two best alternatives to polymeric sand. Paver joint sand is available in different colors and is used to fill the joints between pavers and help to stabilize the pavers. Polymeric sand is used in paver joints because it helps prevent most weeds and ants: Its bonded surface. ft. 1. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. Allowing the water to soak into the soil for about an hour ensures a deeper settlement and. Open the container, rip the bag open, and pour it onto the paving surface. Lot #63101 Item: 6d34-5497883. Today, we want to take a quick look at six polymeric sand alternatives that you may want to use instead. Yield: 10 x 10 surface. Sand is ultimately a much safer option than stone dust for paving projects. Builder’s sand; 3. Gravel plus sand?Polymer sand takes 12 hours to cure and 24 hours to dry. EZ Sand Tan Polymeric Sand. Read page 1 of our customer reviews for more information on the EZ Sand 40. We analyzed around 7396 different products available online and put a List of Top Ten Best Polymeric Sand Alternative Reviews. It is the most long-lasting substitute as it doesn’t erode easily. Builder’s Sand This is the most common polymeric sand replacement for many because of its easy accessibility. This Lot is: Closed Wed, Sep 27, 2023 8:11pm CDT. If you neglect this important element, things can fall apart. Polymeric sands last ten to fifteen years between pavers, depending on the building and experts performing installation techniques. 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. Coarse sand is cheaper than sandboxes’ fine sand, making it an affordable and practical choice.