Which polymeric sand is best

Do let us know in the comment section, your view about this idiosyncratic superlative polymeric sand for natural stone. In order to get the best results, you need to add the dry sand in a ratio, that is 10 parts of dry sand are mixed with 1 part of ConSANDtrate.

When I used it against concrete pavers I found that it was successful in solidifying the loose granite sand edging around the pavers and has kept it from washing away which is something way beyond my expectation.

When tested it was found that the Lock-EM-Up Paver Sand is highly efficient when it comes to curtailing growth between the pavers. On top of it, the polymeric sand deals effectively with issues such as erosion of sand between the pavers.

However, when it comes to household projects, these polymeric sands have been delivered time and again. It goes without saying that the aforementioned polymeric sands have proved their mettle whenever they are put to action. Mostly these polymeric sands are good at filling the seams or joints between the bricks, stone, and concrete paver. The additive plays a crucial role in binding the sand particles together when wet to improve the durability as well as stability of a paved surface such as a patio or walkway.

Different manufacturers of polymeric sand may have different ingredients in different proportions. The main problem with the regular sand is that it washes out very quickly, and at the same time, it also needs constant upkeep and replacement. Take any paver joint stabilization sand, and compared it with any other polymeric sand application process. But, before you start the application of polymeric sand, keep in mind to keep a track of the weather condition as it may act as a spoiler.

After the sand has been swept into the paver joints in a tight manner, I would recommend you to use a blower or a broom to check sands are in the correct position and none is left on any of the pavor prior to wetting. One important thing I would like to bring to your notice is that the manufacturers have started bringing change in the installation instructions in the last couple of years.

After understanding the importance of the installation process, many manufacturers have come up with new innovative formulas. Well, you should begin at the highest point of the paver surface and then, gently spray a mist of water over the paved area as you work your way toward its lowest part. Unfortunately, you realize that it is too late to correct the mistakes as the sand has already hardened.

These scenarios are the reasons why before you buy the product, you ought to look at the drying and cure time. Regular sand is often used for binding pavers.

Regular sand is just sand. It doesn't contain additives meant for binding. Polymeric sand, on the other hand, contains additives for enhancing the bonds. One of the challenges that come with poly sand is that if you activate it by wetting it while it is on the pavers, it will stain the pavers. These stains will usually not look so good. Regular sand, on the other hand, does not stain the pavers or bricks.

Durability-wise, polymeric sand is a lot better than regular sand. This is because it contains binding additives, which regular sand lacks. Rain is a part of nature. Polymeric sand, with its stronger bonds, resists the rain very well. Plucking weeds from the space between pavers is not a very convenient thing. Regular sand is not very tight, so it does allow plants to germinate and grow. The same case applies to ants. The spaces in regular sand allow ants in, and there, they create their molehills and degrade the pavers.

But once again, poly sand is too tight for the ants to get in. Answer: Polymeric sand is not all the same. Different models offer varying degrees of strength. Some models are stronger while others are weaker. The most reliable means of figuring out the strength is to look at the price. More expensive models offer greater power.

Answer: Water is what you need to activate poly sand. Once you apply light showers to the sand, the hardening process kicks off. While most models cannot be altered once the activation begins, there are some models that can be resoftened with water to correct imperfections. Answer: There is an agent known as silica in poly sand.

This silica is quite poisonous to humans. When you breathe it in, the silica dust can damage the lining of your respiratory system, giving you a condition called silicosis. This causes difficulty in breathing and makes your lungs prone to infection. That is why you should avoid breathing the dust. Answer: It is okay to fill polymeric sand in cracks that already contain sand.

The bond will still be reliable. That said, it is better to fill it in gaps from the bottom top, in gaps that don't contain hardened sand. Answer: One thing about poly sand is that during installation, exposure to water after activation and before curing can ruin the installation. You can install the sand near swimming pools, but try ensuring the pool is not used at least before 48 hours are over.

Once the sand has cured, it should be waterproof and more resistant to washing than ordinary sand. By now, you probably appreciate how important poly sand is for paving projects.

You also likely understand what makes poly sand a better choice when compared with ordinary sand. The products we have discussed above are some of the best polymeric sand that you can find. While ConSandtrate offers you the best bang for your back, Polysweep provides the ultimate binding power. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

So why then do many homeowners avoid pavers? Instance 1. Super Fine Sand Some of the cracks that are found between pavers are too little for regular sand. The Typical Jointing Sand Do you know how the rains come down and wash away the typical jointing sand? Ants and other crawling insects also get in.

When to Replace the Sand? This is good for reducing the cost and workload too. Buddingco Polymeric Sand, Grey. The Only Issues that are Usually Expressed are, first that the grey color is darker than it ought to be. But Don't Get Me Wrong. While this Product Works, the performance is not very impressive, so I would recommend it only for those who are on a tight budget. Aside from These Hassles, the sand is quite easy to apply.

ConSandtrate Polymeric Sand Concentrate. As You Might Agree, that is cheaper than purchasing a pound bag of polymeric sand that you will not dilute.

Are You Struggling with Insects? But this poly sand forms a bond so strong that the insects will have a hard time getting in. What about Weed? Other than that, the sand is easy to activate with water and it dries quickly. Alliance Gator Maxx G2. How Easy to Install? Why the Users are So Pleased? But the G2, being medium grain, does not blow away. Flexibility is an Important Aspect Sand flexibility is an important aspect when dealing with paver gaps.

Alliance Gator Polymeric Super Sand. How large are your gaps? How to Use It? Aside from that, it is a great product that is easy to apply. Before You Get this Product, keep in mind this one challenge. Polymeric Sand Concentrate from ConSandtrate. Because of this Functionality, you get to save tremendous amounts of money without compromising the quality.

One Major Hurdle Concern I have noted one major hurdle concerning this product. Polysweep Polymeric Joint Sand. G2 line-up of polymeric sands. This product is recommended for residential projects such as pool decks, patios, and walkways. The installation of Gator Supersand Bond is almost identical to using regular paver joint sand except for the application of water. One important thing to note is this product should never be used when pavers are installed on a concrete slab. It can be used for both residential and commercial types of applications.

Like Gator Supersand, the installation process of Gator Maxx is almost identical to using regular paver joint sand except for the application of water.

They are also both available in two popular colors: Beige and Slate Grey. In October of , we launched a second generation of polymeric sands called G2. G2 Gator Supersand and Gator Maxx are manufactured by mixing specially calibrated sand with sophisticated intelligent polymers, which neutralize haze and dust. The result is a no-haze, no-dust product that only requires a single watering in lieu of the multi-step watering process that a regular Gator Supersand or Gator Maxx project involves. Simply covering with plastic or a tarp will help prevent this.

Downspouts that empty directly on a patio can also be a problem in the first few days. Try to divert this water somewhere else until the sand hardens. You will need to restrict pedestrian traffic for 24 hours and vehicular traffic for 72 hours. The exact amount of time will vary with weather conditions. The hotter and dryer the faster it will cure. Since you have already invested a large amount of time in this project, I suggest you do it right and apply the sealer.

The sealer is easy to apply and not very expensive. It will be necessary to wait until the paver set hardens, usually in a few days, before applying the sealer.

If you still have questions give us a call at Sakrete or visit our Project Video page. Technical Resources. All Products. All Products Technical Center. Search product, project, or keywords. Polymeric Sand vs. Regular Sand for Pavers Polymeric Sand is a blend of sand and special additives designed to fill the joints between concrete pavers and brick pavers. Joint Size Polymeric Sand works best when it is used to fill the entire depth of the paver.

Applying Sand The process of placing the sand also requires attention to detail. Traffic and Protection Since most polymeric sand jobs are done in the summer and thunderstorms occur without warning around the same time, you will need to be prepared to protect the patio in the event of a downpour.

Where to buy Concrete Calculators Product Videos. Comments: Chris-Sakrete Technical Services Also, the area needs to be very dry for several days before applying the sand. If not the polymer will cause staining. The is a 4 part sand to 1 part Portland cement that is mixed with water and applied into the joints. This will harden like concrete. The polymeric sand would not be recommended for this application. Should you have any concerns going forward or would like to discuss you project in more detail.

You can contact the Technical Department at I poured my cobblestone mold for my patio and I have to apply the sand next and after a few rains my joints are filled with acorns. They fall often, if an acorn gets trapped in the sand is this bad and needs to be dug out or it's not a big deal?

I have a patio of organic shaped pavers. Some of the gaps are more than one and a half inch is wide and deep.