How to Use Polymeric Sand Correctly
Polymeric sand offers many benefits when used for hardscape projects.
Polymeric sand offers many benefits when used for hardscape projects. Among others, this jointing sand improves the overall durability of pavers, serves as a weed and insect deterrent, and resists rain washout. However, proper installation is a prerequisite for reaping all these benefits.
Keep reading to learn how to use polymeric sand correctly and avoid making some of the most common mistakes.
Avoid installing polymeric sand on damp pavers or joints
Pavers and joints must be completely dry before homeowners start installing polymeric sand. Otherwise, the moisture will cause the polymers to activate prematurely. As a result, the sand won’t be correctly established, or haze will cover the surface.
Homeowners living in humid climates should avoid installing polymeric sand early in the morning or late in the evening when dew is common.
Use the appropriate amount of water for bonding
When it’s time to bond the polymeric sand, it’s crucial to avoid using too little or too much water.
Under-watering the polymeric sand can result in a crust forming on the top. While the surface appears firm, the joints lack bonding. As a result, the surface will be prone to cracks and gaps and eventually break away.
As for over-watering, it’s equally as harmful. Excessive watering can cause the polymers to separate during activation, forming foam on the surface. In the worst-case scenario, the sand won’t fully harden.
Thoroughly remove excess sand
Polymeric sand has excellent bonding properties, making it the perfect choice for stabilizing pavers. For this reason, it should only be activated between pavers. If homeowners don’t remove sand from the top of the pavers, it will harden and cause haze and a rough texture.
Homeowners should remove excess sand two times during the installation:
After sweeping the sand into the joints
During the activation process
Choose a good base for installing the pavers
While polymeric sand is often forgiving, some guidelines exist regarding a good base for installing pavers using this material. To achieve the best possible results, homeowners should ensure that the chosen surface meets the following conditions:
It allows water to drain through
It slightly slopes
It offers a natural border for the pavers
Avoid overfilling the joints
When filling the joints with polymeric sand, more isn’t necessarily better. Homeowners should leave one-eighth of an inch of space from the top of the pavers. This way, there will be no spill-overs once the watering begins.
Pay attention to the joint width
The ideal joint width between the pavers should be one-eighth of an inch and four inches. As for the depth, go for at least one inch. Too narrow or thin joints can cause spill-over during activation as there’s insufficient space for the water to soak down. In contrast, too wide joints allow excess water to flow through, leading to washout.
Choose a reliable supplier
The crucial element of properly installing polymeric sand is working with quality material. Therefore, homeowners should choose a trustworthy supplier to deliver a robust and reliable product.
North Valley Stone Supply LLC is a family-owned and operated hardscape materials company serving Phoenix and surrounding areas. We strive to bring our customers natural stone and quality materials at affordable prices. Call us today at (623)244-8657.