Yes, polymeric sand is superior to normal paver sand for several reasons. 7 – 14 Bags. Fasten screws on all sides. Techniseal 40 Lb. Before you switch to a polymeric sand alternative you should know the pros and cons of each. Leaf blower. 2. With organic materials, you will avoid having the white haze form on your. In most cases, the polymeric sand is completely set in twenty-four to forty-eight hours after activation. Polymeric sand or poly-sand is a unique mixture of fine sand combined with other additives, typically polymers, when bound with water will form a surprisingly strong glue. Joint stabilizing sealer; How to choose a polymeric sand alternative Polymeric sand is essentially a sand that when combined with water and something such as silica forms a tight bond. 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. The polymeric sand alternatives we have reviewed in this article are able to handle the versatility of multiple projects while still offering premium quality. This will help remove the polymeric sand without damaging the paver surface. Polymeric sand is a popular choice for filling the joints between pavers, however there are alternatives available such as white-washed sand and EnviroSAND. wide and 2 In. This is why it is quickly becoming a preferred alternative to polymeric sand. However, this sand can only be used to fill. Use the same type of irregular, sharp-grained sand as you did for the base and bedding layers. Techniseal EZ Sand is a trusted and proven mix of graded sand and binder that flows smoothly down joints for a fast and effective installation of pavers or slabs on surfaces exposed to normal traffic. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Enviromom writes that, unlike other filling products, polymeric sand is a human-made product and is a combination of fine sand particles and binding agents such as silica. Installation was pretty simple: Spread the sand over the pavers, then sweep it into the gaps. This form of sand for interlocking stone is gaining popularity and for good reason. Polymeric sand can be used for various projects, but it is mainly required for compacting pavers and keeping them in place. If you are locking pavers down into place, polymeric sand is a fantastic product to consider. Plain Sand: Polymeric Sand Alternative; 3. 6. Take care to uncover any fire pit holes that might have been lost beneath the sand. Specifications. The finer particles will pack down over time and may shift when. After all, polymeric sand as a paver base has a huge cost-benefit behind it, hence its high demand on the market. This product is ideal for filling joints between pavers and natural stones up to 4 inches. Next, use a pressure washer with a wide nozzle to gently remove the sand, being careful not to damage the pavers. Remove all excess EZ Sand from surface of project before wetting to prevent staining. Opt for a wide or deep back-ridging and always plan -a thin concrete pad (150 to 200 kg of cement / m3 = 1 part of cement for 5 to 7 parts of sand). Pour polymeric sand over the patio, following instructions on the bag until all the gaps are filled. STEP 1. Eliminates joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. 1. Polymeric sand can be used for various projects, but it is mainly required for compacting pavers and keeping them in place. Rain is an inherent risk of any polymeric sand project. Use a soft bristle broom and fill the gaps to their full depth. However, the performance of different types of polymeric sand fixers varies significantly. A 20×20 brick paver patio costs $3,800 to $6,800. wide and 2 In. 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. Minimum setting temperature is 5° Celsius. On the dry paver flooring, sweep the floor with a soft-bristled broom. Both Are Types of Sand. Advertisement The bonding additives in polymeric sand cause sand to harden when wet, much the way concrete powder hardens after mixing it with water. Polymeric sand is known to have good binding power and can make your pavers last long. You can rely on our latest innovation to improve on-site air quality with an engineered, environmentally safer sand formula for concrete, flagstone, pavers, and natural stones. It can be easily used as a joint filler for brick pavers. Today we talk about polymeric sand problems and how to solve them. Ft. 5 – 9 Bags. In conclusion, there are several alternatives to polymeric sand that you can use between pavers. Polymeric Sand Market Outlook – 2022-2028. You may choose to use stone dust if you have a large supply of it, or prefer the texture and appearance of it. 3. The Flexlock Ultra G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand formula offers a hassle-free application that’s simple enough for even inexperienced DIYers. The 3 Best Polymeric Sand Alternatives to Use in 2023! Paint & Sealant / By John Patterson If you are working on pavement construction, you should know that there is no better material than polymeric sand. Here, we evaluated polymeric sand alternatives. 40 Lb. Model # 40100603 Store SKU # 1001570717. To remove polymeric sand from pavers, start by using a leaf blower to remove loose debris. Choosing the Right Sand for You. A fine grade of sand, such as joint or play sand, or rock dust is not suitable for laying pavers. 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. Instead of a plate compactor to help settle polymeric sand between pavers, is there any reason I couldn’t put a power tool on a board for the vibration instead? I hand tamped the paver base and don’t have easy access to a plate compactor. . C. Once the crack is filled, spray down with a hose to wet the sand and keep it in place while it dries. This will lock the sand particles together helping secure pavers in a uniform and durable surface. Also, do not try to fill up the joint partially with a less expensive material and then topping it off with polymeric sand to save a dollar. EZ Sand Gray Polymeric Sand. The most common way to get rid of the haze is to acid wash the surface until it’s noticeably clearer. WELCOME TO PATRICK BUILDING SUPPLY! WE ARE NOW CARRYING AMMUNITION !!! Customer Service. 4 out of 5 stars 8. Typically 1/8 inch to 4 inches wide. Cement is an inexpensive, durable, and reliable alternative to polymeric sand. Perfect for the jointing of Interlocking Paver. 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. BEST OVERALL: Crack-Stix Black Permanent Crack Filler. Jointing sand is made up of fine grains, to which manufacturers add a mixture of specific additive particles. Helps prevent weeds and plant seeding along with insects and erosion. 1. The advantage of polymeric sand is its binding properties, which is part of the whole 'interlocking' thing of pavers, and it's resistance to being washed away. Sand was filled in discarded plastic bottles and compressed with a tamping rod in the investigation. Remove all excess EZ Sand from surface of project before wetting to prevent staining. The company is known for its high-quality. There should be two inches between the top of the sand and the top of the patio edging. However, adding polymeric sand to pea gravel can help keep the gravel in place. com. Unfortunately I ran my navigator without thinking and I assume sand got into the filter. pail will cover 30 to 45 Sq. EnviroSand is actually environmentally friendly and completely non-toxic. Installation: • Using a broom, sweep Polymeric Jointing Sand into the paver joints, filling up to the paver chamfers (shoulders). 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. Lot #63101 Item: 6d34-5497883. Sand the surface. The polymers activate and help bind the sand particles together when properly installed. Poly sands have a chemical binding agent that sets after being wet. It’s pretty affordable, and you can find it almost everywhere. Check Price. When mixed with water, it forms a strong binding agent. An alternative method is to break one paver into pieces, then adjoining pavers can be. Various mixtures will produce long-lasting and natural results. Concrete Alternatives & Sand (7) Filters. No doubt many patios and walkways were done with sand before polymerics came along. Helps prevent weed sprouting and damage caused by insects. They claim the big advantage is that it is NOT a poly sand or poly stone product. Download. Minimum width between pavers: 1/4 in. Helps prevent weed sprouting and damage caused by insects. 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. It is a budget-friendly polymeric sand for installations carried out in light-duty environments. $134. Helps reduce joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. Back to Sand. Lay landscape fabric over the gravel; this suppresses weeds and separates the gravel from the sand layer. Best 9 Polymeric Sand's Alternatives. Then, as the water dries, the EnviroSand becomes hard. Supersand G2 joint sand doesn't leave residual material on concrete pavers, eliminating both haze and { Rapid Set Technology } Alliance polymeric sand prides themselves on being ahead of the curve. The utilization of this sand, however, raises certain concerns. Finding polymeric sand alternatives for pavers might help you transform the look of your driveway. Polymeric sand is typically recommended to be installed at a thickness of 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3 to 6 millimeters). 7 inches and a speed of 72. What is the best material to put between flagstone?Here are five types of materials to use when filling gaps between flagstones:Sand. Techniseal EZ Sand is a trusted and proven mix of graded sand and binder that flows smoothly down joints for a fast and effective installation of pavers or slabs on surfaces exposed to normal traffic. # Preview Product; 1:However, you could use polymeric sand. EZ Sand 40 lbs. By first installing the counter-ridging, you prevent your pavers from slipping. Minimum width between pavers: 1/4 in. . Usage. 1. Keep in mind that sand is only a temporary solution for repairing driveway cracks. Once polymeric sand or paver sand are applied and set (in the case of polymeric sand), it’s hard to tell the difference without a closer look. Coverage varies with the depth and size of the pavers. Rain means that we cannot install. Unlike polymeric sand which consists mainly of sand and binders, mortar consists mainly of cement, lime, and sand. This is the most common polymeric sand replacement for many because of its easy accessibility. AutomotiveAn ongoing surge in demand for sand has made it a scarce commodity. In this article, we will explore why this product is an excellent and durable investment, discussing alternative materials and providing a step-by-step guide on how to properly lay polymeric sand as a paver base by yourself. Dominator Polymeric Sand. ( 975) $35. Builder's Sand. What Is Polymeric Sand? Created by Techniseal in 1999, polymeric sand is the modern alternative to the common mason sand traditionally used to fill spaces between pavers on dry-laid surfaces. Keep spreading sand and sweeping until the gaps are full. 4 polymeric sand alternatives: pros & cons (with pictures). Keep the stones close together to avoid large gaps. EZ Sand is a mixture of sand and special additives that hardens with moisture for paving stone joints. Joint Width Range. #3 · May 25, 2018. Yes, polymeric sand can be pressure washed with a pressure washer if desired. Polymer fortified to lock joint sand in place. We analyzed around 7396 different products available online and put a List of Top Ten Best Polymeric Sand Alternative Reviews. 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. Cement; 2. It took me a while to understand the importance of following the instructions that are included on your bags of sand. As an alternative to traditional bricks, authors suggested the use of construction and demolition waste and plastic bottles. Fast-setting, water resistant 90-minutes after installation. Well, this sand is flexible, which makes it an ideal option for contractors and homeowners. regular sand Dominator Polymeric Sand. There are a few alternatives to polymeric sand that can be used for paver installation. The values for bulk density and specific gravity of the silica sand are 1730 kg/m 3 and 2. By adding the right amount of water to the soil, the pores are filled, allowing the soil to settle and compact more easily. For every two 60- or 80-pound bags of dry concrete mix, blend one ten-ounce bottle of liquid cement color with five quarts of clean water. 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. Pour two inches of sand over the landscape fabric. A. For smaller-duty installations, Techniseal offers paver experts a cost-effective alternative. cmirrer Discussion starter. 65, respectively, at ambient conditions. Polymeric sand is essentially a sand that when combined with water and something such as silica forms a tight bond. 4 – 6 Bags. Bad Weather Conditions. 40 Lb. As an alternative, you can try. The particle size varies, which is why, as examples, EZ Sand Polymeric Sand ($22. ☎: (877) 937-2838. Allowing the water to soak into the soil for about an hour ensures a deeper settlement and. Volume solids are the ratio of the pigments to resins in a paint. For example, you can use cement, Builder’s Sand, stone dust, Envirosand, Permasand, silica sand, or vermiculite as an option. For smaller-duty installations, Techniseal offers paver experts a cost-effective alternative. Can weeds grow through polymeric sand? I like to. Read the Instructions. Optional: vibratory tamper. Despite the poor reviews below, I needed something and this was no more expensive than just regular sand. Their rapid set technology is an advanced paver sand polymeric solution that is rainfast in 15 minutes during traditional applications. Polymeric sand is a popular choice for filling the joints between pavers, however there are alternatives available such as white-washed sand and EnviroSAND. Free estimates &. . Due to the hard acrylic surface that it creates, this substance has the ability to protect your pavers from stains, grease, oil, and fading. 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. More recently, industry has developed and adopted alternative short-chain PFAS chemistries to replace long-chain PFAS. Paint 2 coats of paver sealant over entire patio. 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. Ok, i will look into the decoseal also. Yield: 10 x 10 surface. RUNNER-UP: Latex-ite Dura Sand Mix Driveway Filler Sealer. Without that vibration sand/polymeric can bridge making it look like the cracks are full even though it is empty/hollow below the bridge. 97. This will also help keep the sand in place, although it won’t provide the same. Even though SmartSand offers lesser jointing performances, this poly sand is more than. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that has been treated with a polymer. Fill The Gaps. Additionally, its power-driven rapid set technology helps reduce clutter. 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. Sharp sand is ideal for general purpose building use and can be used as a base layer or be mixed with other products to create other hard-wearing materials. In smaller areas, pour in more from a clean yogurt cup and use a hand broom. THE POOL AND DECK SLIDESHOW. For larger gaps, it is generally recommended to use alternative materials such as stone dust, fine gravel, or mortar depending on the specific application. Stone Dust. It involves sweeping the sand into the gaps between the pavers and compacting them to ensure thorough distribution. 95. In Stock. Coverage: 40 Lb. Well, this sand is flexible, which makes it an ideal option for contractors and homeowners. 4. you could cork it or put some mulch in it. It can be laid on a dry bed of sand and gravel or it can be mortared to an existing concrete slab. Estimated Cost: $40 to $60. Easier to install and more durable than traditional hardscape aggregate, they also prevent weed growth and insect infestations. Here are photos of the expansion joint. Besides that, its versatility, low dry time, and durability make it a very attractive option. Polymeric sand is a handy ingredient that acts as a cement-like material to keep the pavers in place. If you recall, we used some leftover paver sand to fill the cracks between the stones instead of spending the $95 that the stoneyard would’ve charged for a delivery of the polymeric stuff (which has some cement-like qualities to help keep it in place and block weeds a little better). It’s that simple. Paver Set sand is a mixture of sand and special additives that hardens with moisture for paving stone joints. In conclusion, there are several alternatives to polymeric sand that you can use between pavers. Eventually, the crust will break away, eroding the joint. Also known as “all-purpose sand”, this is considered the go-to product for sealing paver joints. Free Ship-to-Store. 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. Pros of polymeric sand. 97 $ 134. 3. Designed to reduce weed growth and joint erosion. Stone dust; 4. When this sand is wet, then it remains flexible. ADDED: And it helps prevent cracking due to minimal expansion and contraction (likely avoiding the need for a true expansion joint between coping and patio). What Is Polymeric Sand? Polymeric Sand is a high-tech mix of graded sand and binder, specially formulated for the filling of narrow or wide joints when installing pavers, slabs or natural stones, or when replacing existing joints. The average cost of pavers and base materials is $4 to $6 per square foot, while labor runs $6 to $11 per square foot. Polymeric sands last ten to fifteen years between pavers, depending on the building and experts performing installation techniques. ). 5-pound bucket. Most 24” sand filters need 250-300 pounds of sand. 97. One of the best alternatives to polymeric sand is EnviroSand. Should I use polymeric sand or regular sand? Polymeric sand is the more reliable and durable option for filling in the paver gaps. For professional pavers and hard landscapers, this is a revolutionary jointing sand that is an incredible alternative to polymeric sand. Generally, EnviroSAND is the best value because of how long it lasts and stays durable. Alternative Materials: Consider using gravel or sand as a base material instead of excavating the entire area, especially for smaller projects. 20 x 20. com. It is a fine powder that is produced during the mixing process, which can be used as an alternative to polymeric sand. You're right that water infiltration could erode the sand away over time and leave the sealant bridge unsupported. Working your way down the bed, whack the bricks with the rubber mallet to force the sand to. Alternative Permeable Bedding Course – 1” thick of 1/4” clear open-graded chip stone –. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Red Devil Asphalt Crack Filler Cartridge. The best alternatives to polymeric sand. 1. This will create a perfectly 1″ layer of sand. 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. That binder will either be organic or man-made. The polymeric sand lasted maybe a year before sand clumps started coming out of the joints and ants were infiltrating the sand (which may have been the cause for the clumps). Whatever your sand choice, simply sweep the sand into the joints between the pavers, being careful to. Unlike most other polymeric sand formulas on the market, Flexlock Ultra G2 Sand requires just one watering to fully activate. Once dampened, it hardens to lock pavers into place. It is sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand or hardscape sand. Usage. Before settling on stone dust, just be aware that you may face shifting or other issues caused by the material’s. 98. Polymeric sand, especifically, has noteworthy binding power. Polymeric sand can be used on driveways, walkways, patios, and even around pools! If you’re looking for an alternative to polymeric sand, a few different materials are available on the market. Landscape Products 2023 (Ottawa, Quebec, Atlantic) Download. 4. It provides drainage, wont eat away at the pavers, and it compacts well. That is probably why you had loose pavers. All pavers require sand. Measure with a micrometer, mark with chalk, cut with an axe. 97. 1. Backed by a 15-year limited warranty. SmartSand Polymeric Sand. Polymeric Sand: This is a modern option that contains additives, which help it to harden when exposed to water. 5 mm to 2. 250-516-1524. One of the biggest differences here is that polymeric sand is not water permeable. Bag, (Slate Gray) Advanced Haze Free Technology Can be used for joints up to a maximum of 1 inch (2. This type of sand often comes into play at the end of a landscape paving. The hardscape industry’s leading polymeric sand, Techniseal is a high performance jointing product that can be used in the installation of concrete pavers and slabs. Coverage: 40 Lb. June 27, 2022 June 6, 2023. Pour your sand into the fire pit, creating an even layer roughly two inches deep. Typically 1/8 inch to 4 inches wide. The hardscape industry's leading polymeric sand, Techniseal is a high performance jointing product that can be used. This will vibrate the sand to the bottom of the joint. I just plan to buy a rool of that 1/2" x 4 inch white foam and cut it down to 2" and stuff it into the joint, its 1/4" - 3/8" wide and 2 3/8. Lay the Flagstones. Stone dust; 4. Despite the budget-friendly pricing, this polymeric sand offers a strong bond that protects against sprouting weeds and burrowing insects. How to choose a backer rod alternative. The installation of Gator Supersand Bond is almost identical to using. four varieties for varying gap sizes. Easy Mix Paver Bond Polymeric Sand is a blend of kiln-dried fine sand and a gelling agent formulated to create a cohesive joint between pavers. 5 bags of sand : 1 bag of cement. ADDED: And it helps prevent cracking due to minimal expansion and contraction (likely avoiding the need for a true expansion joint between coping and patio). The main benefit of bricks over other materials is that individual bricks can later be lifted up and replaced. Joint-It Simple Dark Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers,. Polymer fortified to lock joint sand in place. This Lot is: Closed Wed, Sep 27, 2023 8:11pm CDT. Ive never seen it laid with spacers, unless the gaps are to be filled with grout. No doubt many patios and walkways were done with sand before polymerics came along. Polymeric sand works best when it fills the entire joint between pavers and when joints are between ¼” and 1. Polymeric Sand For Pavers. 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. For one, you’ll get a more durable finish. It also causes cracks and gaps, because the sand hasn't fully bonded the entire depth of the joint. I read where polymeric sand needs to go down 1 to 1. Compacting the sand is an important step. Water will pool up on top of it. How to use polymeric sand: Don’t cheap out on sand. Concrete Alternatives & Sand + 1 more EZ Sand Techniseal 40 Lb. Exactly how fine stone dust is, however, depends on the exact stone dust you get, as some may be finer than others. However, there are a lot of alternatives to play sand, like washed concrete or polymeric sand. 1. Pete Ortiz. Engineered to resist wind, rain, freezing conditions, and substrate movement without washing away. Set aside ample time for the project, haste makes waste. Polymeric sand is just like any other sand, except that it's been impregnated with a chemical binder that hardens the sand. I had used Rhino polymeric sand between the porcelain pavers, followed instructions, but then after over a week of that, a hard rain basically washed away a lot of it. Polymeric sand in my filter. So I bought the 45 lb bucket. $ Joint-It Simple Grey Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Grey Retail $135. Polymeric sand cost anywhere between $20 to $40 per 50 lb bag, depending on the brand. 140 Reviews. A smart choice for residential installations such as Driveway, pathways and Patio. EZ Sand is a mixture of sand and special additives that hardens with moisture for paving stone joints. Writer. Better Polymeric Sand Alternative,. Step 1: The first step you need to take while installing paver sand is to fight the prevailing weeds in your patio. It creates a solid and durable joint that resists erosion and weed growth. With a polymeric sand product such as Sakrete Paver Set or Sakrete PermaSand – which are designed to resist weed growth and to harden and stay in. Builder’s sand is the most common replacement for polymeric sand, and it is. Use a squeegee or soft bristle push broom to move the jointing compound around the surface and. Step 2. 7 out of 5 stars 24. Manufacturers claim that 3 pounds of filter sponge balls can replace 100 pounds of sand filter media.