The key difference between dust and sand is the size of the joints between your stones. But if you’re looking for something more affordable, Sakrete Paver Set Polymeric Sand is an excellent alternative to professional-quality sand. When all joints are filled, remove excess sand on surface. 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. It also causes cracks and gaps, because the sand hasn't fully bonded the entire depth of the joint. Skim off the top layer of grass and topsoil (about 3/4-inch) in the area where you plan on installing the pavers. Cleaning, Joint Sanding and Sealing. A smart choice for residential installations such as Driveway, pathways and Patio. Pros of polymeric sand. Remove the topsoil and install the sand. When you wet polymeric sand, polymers are activated. An alternative method is to break one paver into pieces, then adjoining pavers can be removed manually by hand. 6. It’s that simple. 9 out of 5 stars 15. 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. The hardscape industry's leading polymeric sand, Techniseal is a high performance jointing product that can be used. SmartSand Polymeric Sand. sprinklers, etc. That said, during application polymeric sand looks almost the same as normal sand (except that. 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. If a polymeric sand is too hard, it can also make it too brittle, causing cracking from ground movement. Once the polymeric sand is properly installed and activated with water, the polymer blend infused into the sand begins to harden. To lock the pavers in place, you can use a sealer or glue. Alternative jointing sands (clockwise from top left) include C144 mason sand, white bar sand, grey polymeric sand and beige polymeric sand. It’s that simple. 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. 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. Remove all excess EZ Sand from surface of project before wetting to prevent staining. The sand used as a base should be simply spread and leveled with the help of a 2×4 and two 1″ pipes. Multiple factors make it such, but the low and affordable price is a huge reason for this. In smaller areas, pour in more from a clean yogurt cup and use a hand broom. The vibration also compacts the sand grains together with fine dust between which further locks them. Polymeric sand works best to fill gaps between 1/4 inch and 1. you could cork it or put some mulch in it. deep. Here are some alternatives to consider: Stone Dust: This is a cheaper option than polymeric sand and can be used to fill up the gaps between pavers. 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. Avoid using chemicals or abrasive. pail will cover 30 to 45 Sq. An example would be for the travertine coping around a pool perimeter, of for perhaps an "outside" border edge. [250 Pages Report] Registering a year-on-year (YoY) growth rate of 7. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Joint-It Simple Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Grey at Amazon. Gravel plus sand?Polymer sand takes 12 hours to cure and 24 hours to dry. These methods include using a broom, leaf blower, or garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle to remove debris and stains. Polymeric paver sand is a great option to prevent weeds from growing up between them. Spread polymeric sand in sections. The best alternatives to polymeric sand. When installed properly, the hardened sand will lock. Step 2: Gather Your Materials. 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. Polymeric sand vs. 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 solution for this issue would be to remove the polymeric sand first, then install a jointing sand, and then make use of a joint stabilizer on the sand as an alternative to the polymeric sand. This makes polymeric sand more durable and longer lasting than some alternatives. Both polymeric and regular sand are types of sand that are used in the construction industry. that you might need for other projects. Once cured, polymeric sand will create a strong and durable bond between pavers, reducing the risk of weeds and insect infestation. Yield: 10 x 10 surface. However, if there is excess water, it can prevent the sand from hardening. EasyJoint is the All Weather Joint compound. Step 2. Bend the “wings” of the workpiece and install the bar in the “shoe”. When used to fill gaps between pavers in a new or old flagstone patio. $134. 1. It can be found. Builder’s sand is the most common replacement for polymeric sand, and it is. The writer. Composed of a mix of graded sand and binder that flows smoothly down joints, it allows for a fast and effective installation of pavers. 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. This type of sand is designed to resist erosion and retain its original shape. Read the Instructions. My question, concern is using polymeric sand on my total patio where only 1/3 to 1/2 will have the pavers taken up to then allow the 1 to 1. Aim for a polymeric sand color that seamlessly integrates with the natural hues of your pavers, ensuring a unified and balanced look across your outdoor space. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. Specializing in the restoration of Interlock Paving Stones. When the product first came out It seemed like a great idea. While it’s cheaper than polymeric sand, it isn’t as durable and tends to clump if not mixed well when added to the masonry mix. In fact, you shouldn’t even think about it. $124. A backer rod is a foam or sponge material used in filling and sealing cracks or joints in concrete surfaces. Water cannot really flow through hardened polymeric sand. Minimum setting temperature is 5° Celsius. Gray Polymeric Sand. Style. And polymeric sand is a type of sand used as a form of paver sand. Writer. Polymeric sand is designed to seal joints between pavers, stone, or fieldstone patios and deter weeds and ants from infiltrating these spaces. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Joint-It Simple Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Grey at Amazon. Perfect for the jointing of Interlocking Paver. Usually applied about 1/8 to 1/4 inch above paver surface. In smaller areas, pour in more from a clean yogurt cup and use a hand broom. That is probably why you had loose pavers. Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. This Lot is: Closed Wed, Sep 27, 2023 8:11pm CDT. I’m going to share with you some tips for how to buy the best Polymeric Sand Alternative without feeling overwhelmed. Ceramic Flex Polymeric Sand for Perfect Patio Joints. Deters ants and other insects. When you’re creating your dream garden, the chances are high that pavers are going to be involved. The ICPI refers to joint sand in their tech spec sheet #2. The installation of Gator Supersand Bond is almost identical to using. By first installing the counter-ridging, you prevent your pavers from slipping. Polymeric sand. The company is known for its high-quality. regular sand Dominator Polymeric Sand. Most 24” sand filters need 250-300 pounds of sand. Longevity and warranty. Alternatives to polymeric sand are made with formulae suitable for your hardscaping projects. 2. Paver lock is a polymer modified sand specifically designed for use in the installation of paving stones. Visit Techniseal’s website for further details. This will help remove the polymeric sand without damaging the paver surface. The sand used when building a paver patio or walk is a coarse builder's sand, with pieces ranging in size from 0. 7 out of 5 stars 24. Wider joints will require more time to harden. EZ Sand 40 lbs. It is more expensive than regular dry joint sand but not as pricey as joint compound. Ive never seen it laid with spacers, unless the gaps are to be filled with grout. deep. Using Polyermic Sand has many advantages. Poly sand has some flexibility (compared with portland cement prodcuts). Spread polymeric sand in sections. Builder’s sand; 3. The polymer modified sand hardens as it dries. Alliance Gator Super Sand Review. The idea is that you place the 1″ pipes away from each other and use them as a “rail” in which to slide your 2×4. In 1999, Techniseal launched the first-ever polymeric sand for paver jointing. . Sweep the sand between the joints with a push broom. Regular sand is considered an alternative to polymeric sand. Despite the budget-friendly pricing, this polymeric sand offers a strong bond that protects against sprouting weeds and burrowing insects. If you only have a crust, you don't have a proper bond in the joints. However, adding polymeric sand to pea gravel can help keep the gravel in place. Pete Ortiz. Get it as soon as Wednesday, Nov 8. Helps reduce joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. 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). 4. Polymeric sand typically takes 24 to 48 hours to cure and become fully effective. 0. 1. It'll be difficult to make the sealant stay on top of something so coarse long enough to cure, though. Shop for Concrete Alternatives & Sand at Patrick Building Supply. EZ Sand Gray Polymeric Sand. 1. Just like all-purpose sand, polymeric sand comes in a wide range of colors. When you have wider gaps, like with a flagstone patio, more sand will be required to fill them. EZ Sand Gray Polymeric Sand. It can be a difficult choice between a traditional option and a newer alternative, but we think polymeric sand can outlast and outperform the usual jointing sand. 97. These include: Reduced installation time – A 100 square foot patio will only require around 20 panels instead of several tons of rock base. $ 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. Jointing sand is made up of fine grains, to which manufacturers add a mixture of specific additive particles. 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. But, it doesn’t provide as good weed-prevention qualities as polymeric sand can give. 1. Manufacturers claim that 3 pounds of filter sponge balls can replace 100 pounds of sand filter media. 15. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. Keep reading for. Benefits from the Nextgel technology for cleaner application and faster wetting. The commercially available silica sand having a grain size of 150 µm is taken as filler material. Polymeric sand can cost anywhere from $20 to $90 per 50-pound bag. This product is ideal for filling joints between pavers and natural stones up to 4 inches. If your outdoor space incorporates various themes or styles, consider opting for neutral polymeric sand tones. This curing time is comparable to other types of sand, such as masonry sand. All sands must meet ASTM C144 or C33 Specifications. It's economical, versatile and easy to work with. That is, quite literally, a huge load off your back. Unfortunately I ran my navigator without thinking and I assume sand got into the filter. You can purchase this kind of. Polymer fortified to lock joint sand in place. Before you go out and buy a bag of polymeric sand, read on so you know what is involved in getting the sand into the joints properly. Coverage varies with the depth and size of the pavers. Fasten screws on all sides. There are basically three different options of joint sand that most paver installers offer to their customers. With organic materials, you will avoid having the white haze form on your. I know I do! There’s just something about picking out the perfect item and taking it home that makes me happy. Deters ants and other insects. Sand Base. 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. Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Grey. Check Price on Amazon. $134. Lot #63101 Item: 6d34-5497883. Filling gaps between pavers to stabilize and prevent weeds. This product is ideal for stabilizing joints and gaps between pavers, providing professional-grade results with its revolutionary ceramic flex technology. Model # 70970567 Store SKU # 1000786061. Added: 2022-12-22Once all the pavers are set in place, spread more sand over the top of them. 1. It's important to choose the proper type of sand for the pavers. Walking over Moist Soil for Soil Compaction. Ft. Leaf blower. Alternative products that can be used instead of polymeric sand include regular sand and paver base mix. Fill The Gaps. Keep repeating this step as many times as necessary to get rid of excess polymeric sand. Better alternatives may emerge in the future but polymeric sand is your best option in the. The average cost of pavers and base materials is $4 to $6 per square foot, while labor runs $6 to $11 per square foot. A depth of 8 inches is suitable for 4 inches of gravel, 1 inch of paver sand, and pavers that are approximately 3 inches thick. 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. Benefits from the Nextgel technology for cleaner application and faster wetting. Play sand is intended for a child's learning and it cannot give significant structure to the pavers. Ideal for paving areas with high traffic movement or areas prone to high winds. 4. pail will cover 30 to 45 Sq. Helps reduce joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. THE POOL AND DECK SLIDESHOW. What is the best mortar for flagstone?In flagstone patio projects, we use a Can you mortar dry laid flagstone?Flagstone is a unique paving surface that adds a natural look to any patio or walkway. Landscape Products 2023 (Ottawa, Quebec, Atlantic) Download. Stone dust; 4. 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). 5 cu. There is an article discusses four alternatives to polymeric sand for use in landscaping projects. Size: 40 Lb. Garden hose. Step-by-Step Instructions. Then you'll need to get all the excess off the surface of the pavers before you water the sand to set it. 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. Cement is an inexpensive, durable, and reliable alternative to polymeric sand. Second, it aids in the filling of any fractures or gaps between pavers. You'll discover that the alternatives can give durable and long-lasting solutions while using fewer. It's economical, versatile and easy to work with. Are there viable alternatives to sand or polymeric sand? I've seen a popular YouTuber state that his company (operating in the northern US) doesn't use polymeric sand. +Concrete Dust. You can get this sand almost anywhere since it is used heavily in construction projects. Gator Maxx G2 helps prevent weeds and damage caused by ants. All pavers require sand. Ideal for installations carried out in lighter-duty environments. Cement; 2. Techniseal 40 Lb. EnviroSAND and white-washed sand are the two best alternatives to polymeric sand. The utilization of this sand, however, raises certain concerns. Polymeric sand, which is a special blend of fine sand and bonding additives, is the solution to this type of problem. Natural stone pavers and manmade alternatives give a beautiful appearance to pathways, patios, and gardens and come in an array of colors and sizes. It is specially formulated for cleaning and filling the joints between the paver stones and is composed of high-strength polymers and quartz granules. If applied properly, the binding agent in the sand will harden in the joints and completely prevent weeds and ants from causing cracks in the surface. Unlike regular sand, polymeric sand is impervious. Natural tone complements all product colors. However, you should think carefully about the long-term benefits; polymeric sand may cost more initially but add up. It costs $50 to $75 per 27. After all, polymeric sand as a paver base has a huge cost-benefit behind it, hence its high demand on the market. 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 durable joint that resists erosion, weed growth and insects. Deters ants and other insects. Polymeric sands last ten to fifteen years between pavers, depending on the building and experts performing installation techniques. Push broom. Today we talk about polymeric sand problems and how to solve them. Yes, polymeric sand can be pressure washed with a pressure washer if desired. It’s often used as a bedding layer but can also be used between pavers. Another option is regular sand, although it may require more frequent maintenance to prevent weed growth and erosion. DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand with Revolutionary Ceramic Flex. Then, as the water dries, the EnviroSand becomes hard. This will vibrate the sand to the bottom of the joint. Once the crack is filled, spray down with a hose to wet the sand and keep it in place while it dries. For most projects with a joint of 1 inch or less, such as square or geometric stone pavers, Eurostone polymeric sand is a great option. Download. One option is crushed stone or gravel, which provides a stable base and allows for water drainage. Inspect the pavers to make sure the sand in the crevices is at least 1/8″ below the top of the pavers. More recently, industry has developed and adopted alternative short-chain PFAS chemistries to replace long-chain PFAS. If you are sealing it anyway, that might do the trick if the gap is small enough. four varieties for varying gap sizes. Step 1. Pea gravel is so lightweight that using a leaf blower without scattering at least some of the stones is difficult. With surging adoption of polymeric sand in various applications, the overall market is projected to grow at 7. Bag, (Slate Gray) Advanced Haze Free Technology Can be used for joints up to a maximum of 1 inch (2. Various studies reported the use of HDPE and PET polymeric waste to increase the efficiency of unfired clay. When mixed with water, it forms a strong binding agent. Ft. Concrete dust is a byproduct of concrete mixing. Stone and Brick 2023. 7 inches and a speed of 72. Clear-drying adhesive; 5. ☎: (877) 937-2838. Now this is no ordinary sand, but polymeric sand, i. com. Maximum width between pavers: 1 in. 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. Another option is regular sand, although it may require more frequent maintenance to prevent weed growth and erosion. For best results, apply with funnel or bag to insert EZ Sand directly into joints. Available in 15. Go with SAKRETE, The Pros Choice since 1936. The challenge is to avoid staining. Publicly available health,NOCO is a "No Compaction" polymeric joint specially developed for the installation of flagstones and other paving materials for which mechanical compaction is not possible or difficult. Stone dust is a good alternative--it does not wash out or displace as easily as paver sand--costs less than polymeric but a bit more than sand. The sand intends to strengthen a smooth, high layer over the rock and create a firm, solid pavement surface. Both Are Types of Sand. When it is combined with water it creates a strong bond that is ideal for filling in joints in pavers. Coverage-sq-ft varies by joint width and depth. On the dry paver flooring, sweep the floor with a soft-bristled broom. The chemical sand consolidation methods involve pumping of chemical materials, like furan resin and silicate non-polymer materials into unconsolidated sandstone formations, in order to minimize sand production with the fluids produced from the hydrocarbon reservoirs. This makes polymeric sand more durable and longer lasting than some alternatives. 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. 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. Step 4: Pressure Wash the Surface. Coarse sand is cheaper than sandboxes’ fine sand, making it an affordable and practical choice. Coverage: 40 Lb. This sand is commonly known as joint sand or leveling sand too. It offers a clean, dust-free installation and activates with one watering. It is a mixture of fine sand, adhesive and is most widely used in paver joints. The advantages of using polymeric sand for paving mostly revolve around its strength and durability as a joint filler. This is your ultimate guide to buying the Best Polymeric Sand Alternative. (grumbacher makes it and sells it as a painters solvent, like as a terpentine alternative for oil painters), and try to clean a little test area. I’ve read the use of a plate compactor when putting in the polymeric sand into the paver joints is. Easy to install. Many people believe that polymeric sand is the only option when it comes to hardscape projects. There are several important reasons. Neutral colors, such as beige or gray, provide versatility and can adapt. Product overview EZ Sand is a mixture of sand and special additives that hardens with moisture for paving stone joints. You can easily find it at your local hardware store or landscape supply company. Allows for cleaner, easier and quicker jobs thanks to the Nextgel technology. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. 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. It contains 85 to 90% quartz and crystalline silica. You could replace all of that with just 7-9 pounds of filter balls. EZ Sand 40 lbs. Step 1: The first step you need to take while installing paver sand is to fight the prevailing weeds in your patio. Blocks weed growth and resists insect. Sand Needed For Patio 1 Bag = 50 LB. Polymeric sand can be used for various projects, but it is mainly required for compacting pavers and keeping them in place. 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. Cement: Polymeric Sand Alternative; 2. Need of alternative fine aggregates. Model # 40100603 Store SKU # 1001570717. When put in contact with water, this substance. Polymeric sand is a handy ingredient that acts as a cement-like material to keep the pavers in place. Block paving, also known as brick paving, is a commonly used decorative method of creating a pavement or hardstanding. Advertisement The bonding additives in polymeric sand cause sand to harden when wet, much the way concrete powder hardens after mixing it with water. A 20×20 brick paver patio costs $3,800 to $6,800. Despite the poor reviews below, I needed something and this was no more expensive than just regular 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. 9 KG bags. Ivory. ( 975) $35. makes the pavers move less under your feet. deep. Typically, polymeric sand lasts for up to 10 years. . A. This sand has been washed and sifted to eliminate potential impurities. Use a soft bristle broom and fill the gaps to their full depth. 99. If you have trouble choosing between polymeric sand alternatives, think about how often you want to touch up your pavers. Estimated Cost: $40 to $60. 7 Results Found. hardscape History of Paver SandEstimated Cost: $40 to $60 Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. This form of sand for interlocking stone is gaining popularity and for good reason. Plain Sand: Polymeric Sand Alternative; 3. Paver Set sand is a mixture of sand and special additives that hardens with moisture for paving stone joints. 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. Wet polymeric sand would be much harder to get off the surface, so ensure the floor is completely dry. This will repel water, turn the sand rock hard and keep dirt and weeds from growing in between. This curing time is comparable to other types of sand, such as masonry sand. Reduces weed growth. It is a budget-friendly polymeric sand for installations carried out in light-duty environments. Usage. With a push broom sweep it into all seams of your paver surface.