3. Hi guys new to the site but hello. Brush the polymeric sand into the gaps between the pavers, tamp it down with the compactor, and then lightly water to activate the polymer. The pavers must be cleaned again before sealant can be applied. Two of the most commonly used sealants for pavers include polymeric sand and Easy Joint. Step 5: Clean the Surface. It is useless to use polymeric sand on travertine to fill holes. This building material is specifically designed for concrete pavers. It costs $50 to $75 per 27. Updated on March 1, 2023. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that contains additives that help bind the sand together. Polymeric sand has come a long way since its inception in the early 2000s and is a quality product for a jointing compound these days. This concrete sand is usually a mixture of brown, tan, and beige colors. Polymeric sand is a semi-permeable sand that contains additives and binding agents to lock paver joints into place. I did this over our entire patio until it was all wet. Poly sand needs to go the full depth of the paver, or close to it. Accel dust-preventing polymeric sand, with exclusive dust-suppression technology, minimizes on-site dust and haze up to 90% compared with traditional polymeric sand. The result is a longer-lasting paver installation. Make sure the surface is dry during installation and no rain is in the forecast for 24 to 48 hours after installation. When mixed with water, it forms a strong binding agent that can be used to fill spaces between pavers,. Key point with polymeric sand is to clean the pavers of it so it is only in the gaps. You are going to need to get polymeric sand, water, preferably from a water hose, a hose attachment so you can create a fine mist of water, as well as a good broom. Yet another popular substitute for polymeric sand is a joint stabilizing sealer. It'll use more sand than you expect, but once it dries it should be fine. Homeowners don’t need to replace polymeric sand continuously. For this example, lets assume that you want a thickness or depth of 1-inch. With Techniseal’s industry-leading. After paver installation, the sand would be swept into the paver joints. of the sand Mold and Moss Prevention Does not allow water to penetrate and will dry faster. This product is ideal for stabilizing paver joints/gaps, ranging from 1/8" up to 4" and provides professional grade results. It helps keep the pavers in place and prevents weeds and ant infestations. When it is combined with water it creates a strong bond that is ideal for filling in joints in pavers. Polymeric sand is usually only used to fill paver joints. Loading Recommendations. To the touch, they feel more like a fine powder than anything else. Polymeric sand and regular sand may both be used for filling the joints of pavers including bricks, paving stones, and natural stone. The hardened joints resisted weeds, ants couldn’t tear it up to. Sweep in the sand. The question was on the SAND, not the pavers. Using polymeric sand instead of its regular counterpart saves homeowners time, money, and effort. Blow across the pavers, not down, otherwise you can blow too much sand out of the cracks. Plus, another issue when it. Estimated Cost: $40 to $60 Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. Using too much water can cause the sand to wash out of the joints. Issues One of the most common sand-related problems is haze. It is sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand or hardscape sand. regular sand LANDSCAPING Variety of applications - Pavers, Flagstone,Natural stone, ConcreteNevertheless, while polymeric sand remains exceptional, alternative types of sand can also be applied depending on the specific project requirements. Once you’ve spread the sand, use the tamper to make sure the sand is securely in place between the pavers. However, I read where someone claimed that powerwashing the joints clear can unsettle the bedding sand and screw up your pavers. Benefits of Polymeric Sand: Strength and Durability: The hardened polymeric sand forms a robust bond between the pavers, ensuring they stay securely in place. Regular sand is versatile, cheap, readily accessible, and easier to work with. Application . The recommended frequency for re-sanding pavers is every 2-3 years. Sweep clean. After you put it down, you wet it, and it adheres to itself. regular sand LANDSCAPING Variety of applications - Pavers, Flagstone,Natural stone, ConcreteFirst, it is readily available and easy to find in most places. Buy On Amazon. Perfect for the jointing of Interlocking Paver. Finally, use a hose to wet the sand and allow it to harden. The product is ideal for stabilizing joints between pavers and preventing weed growth in outdoor spaces. You should use enough sand so that it is approximately 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch deep. We prefer joint stabilizing paver sealer over Polymeric sand for several reasons. Thus, when you wet up polymeric sand for the first time, these polymers are activated, forming a hardened alloy that doesn’t wash away as easily as regular. When suitable preparation is taken (such such turf killer, insect repellant/removal), this polymeric jointing sand has one ability toward reduce weed growth, resist rain. Polymeric sand can be more expensive than regular sand, but may provide a more durable and weed-resistant joint. Paver damage; In addition, regular sand is more likely to wash away than polymeric sand. It doesn’t blow out of the joint. See morePolymeric sand outperforms regular sand in terms of stability, durability, and weed control. Traditionally, pavers’ installation for driveways, patios and walkways were made with regular sand. Listed below you will see major brands as: alliance, techo-bloc, gator, rain-guard-water-sealers, rhino, alliance-gator, buddingco, kawayy,. Polymeric sand is made mainly out of sand, silica, quartz, and other materials, whereas mortar is made primarily out of cement, lime, and sand. No, polymeric sand does not harden in the same way that concrete does. They’re Both Very Fine. Application . 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. 5 ft2. . 4. Deters ants and other insects. Even the slightest mistake can throw your efforts off because polymeric sand repels water once it hardens, but is also re- activated with water. Washed Concrete Sand. If you only have a crust, you don't have a proper bond in the joints. Polymeric sand is a material used to fill paver joints, the empty spaces found between each paver, tile or natural stone. Regular sand is best used for a variety of other applications such as bedding sand, abrasives, fill material, and various other uses such as being mixed with cement. 6. Use a plate compactor to vibrate the sand down into the joints. Table Of Contents. The proper silica sand for paver joints is a mesh 20/30. Weatherproof – Unlike regular jointing sand, which can be washed away by. That item “polymeric sand” might sound like some sort by high-tech, futuristic product, but there’s a well chance you’ve confronted it somewhere along which line. While a 50-pound bag of ordinary sand costs $2 to $4, its polymeric equivalent can range from $20 to $40. Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. Also, in terms of regular sand. 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. The “glue” that ties paving projects together. The downside of polymeric sand is the cost, but it does a much better job of keeping weeds out and while it does need to be refreshed periodically that is far less frequent than paver sand in my experience. Each bag is designed to cover 4–5 feet when used as a joint stabilizing material. Understanding Polymeric Sand. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that contains a polymer that binds the sand particles together when it is activated with water. I'm an old veteran paver guy. Polymeric sand is a special. #3. The silica is a binding agent that helps to hold the sand in place. It is a budget-friendly polymeric sand for. Polymeric sand is easy to mix with water and is compatible with different materials. Polymeric Sand vs. Why is Polymeric Sand the Best Option. It took me a while to understand the importance of following the instructions that are included on your bags of sand. Check out 40 Pound Titanium Gray Polymeric Sand on Amazon. 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. It should also be kept away from direct sunlight and temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. When mixed with water, it forms a strong binding agent that can be used to fill spaces between pavers, tiles, and more. . The challenge is to avoid staining. DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand - Best for Professional Use. Silica is an additive, in the sand that is often used to help lock the fine sand particles together. In order to implement the goal, we recommend you use a non-selective herbicide. In smaller areas, pour in more from a clean yogurt cup and use a hand broom. 3. It should be kept away from moisture and stored in a cool, dry area with low humidity. Leave a small gap (typically 1/8 to 1/4 inch or 3 to 6 mm) between each paving stone. The downside of polymeric sand is the cost, but it does a much better job of keeping weeds out and while it does need to be refreshed periodically that is far less frequent than paver sand in my experience. Polymeric sand offers greater resistance to erosion because of its hardening properties. Easy to clean with water Will hold water in between the pavers and encourage moss and mold in shaded areas Performance ACCEL polymeric sand vs. Step 1: The first step you need to take while installing paver sand is to fight the prevailing weeds in your patio. regular sand for pavers. Choose a color that will complement the color of your pavers. Put down 3/4" of sand. This process also helps to secure the pavers into place. Heenan, Cannon, Mack, and Theodore are four outdoor enthusiasts. Then continue with these steps: If the surface has a rectangular shape, then all you have to do is multiply these dimensions to get the surface area: A = 19 ft x 8. The introduction of polymeric sand helped homeowners prevent these. #2. While regular sand is made out of a combination of tiny particles of. This may be to save time or to cut costs, sometimes both. This type of jointing sand is different from regular sand because it contains binders that help to hold everything together. Accel. of the sand Mold and Moss Prevention Does not allow water to penetrate and will dry faster. That said, during application polymeric sand looks almost the same as normal sand (except that. This assumes you sweep sand, vibrate and sweep a second time for traditional pavers (slab type wet cast pavers should not be vibrated). g. Used for matching with specific designs#4. Polymeric will harden with water and help prevent weeds. Here are ways you can protect your pavers from a plate compactor: Place a rubber mat on the plate of your plate compactor as a buffer for the paver. Bag for Concrete Paver Joints up to 2", Slate Gray with Contractor Tip. Blu 60 (3 size slab type paver) 90 sf/bag. depend on the shape and size of the pavers or slabs, and on the width and depth of joints. Then think about the desired thickness of the paver sand. stabilizing sealer, polymeric sand and a specialty sealer would be the best option. Joint stabilizing sealer. EnviroSAND is flexible so cracking doesn’t occur in the joints. However, sometimes it is necessary to remove polymeric sand due to various reasons like improper installation or the need to replace damaged pavers. Once the polymeric sand cures (about 30 days), pavers and joints should be sealed with a quality sealant to protect the pavers from stains and the joints from erosion and insect infiltration. These are the best buy products with high ratings from 116,271 objective reviews of consumers, we ranked the top 20 products you may be keen on the Best Polymeric Sands. Water the sand according to the directions. In short, no you cannot use regular sand between pavers. Step-by-Step Instructions. Remove the sand base sand that's there now (compact also) 2. Difference #2: Gator Nitro offers top-to-bottom strength. It lasts longer while keeping the paver boundRegular Sand Use. Paver patios need sand to seal the pavers and make sure the structure is firmly in place and durable. You’ll receive premium customer service from the moment you contact our office. Backed by a 15-year limited warranty. So, when it rains, instead of the sand washing out of the joints, the. Late last summer, I tackled a couple of outdoor DIY projects using some new-to-me products – mulch glue and polymeric sand. Silica sand consists mainly of silica, whereas polymeric sand only has a small amount of silica used as an additive. It offers a clean, dust-free installation and activates with one watering. Polymeric sand is a popular material used in landscaping projects as it creates a strong, durable bond between pavers, stones, or bricks. Run a plate compactor and reapply. There are different brands of sand for pavers to suit all budgets and needs. Run a plate compactor and reapply. Check out 40 Pound Titanium Gray Polymeric Sand on Amazon. Use a blower to blast out the joints again. Remove excess sand from the surface of the pavers. As these particles combine, the joints between patio pavers becomes impenetrable. With Techniseal’s industry-leading. Unlike regular sand, polymeric sand is impervious. What is the argument for jointing sand vs polymeric sand? Well, we do not believe there is one anymore. 5 inches wide, suits appropriately for polymeric sand. Place the pipes parallel to each other at a close enough distance to place the 2×4 on top of them. What is the difference between polymeric sand vs. Users sweep the product in between the gaps in pavers, thoroughly reaching every nook and cranny. the extra time it takes to drain doesn't warrant switching back to regular sand, and risking weed seed germinating into a nightmare. After investing in a new paver patio or driveway we recommend joint stabilizing silica sand and sealer. A polymeric sand joint offers a durable, resilient and. Power Flex technology creates a stable, superior bond between paver joints and prevents shifting and erosion, ensuring sturdy outdoor surfaces. The sealer liquid will penetrate into the sand and when dried, the sand becomes hard and binds to the pavers and preexisting joint sand (if relevant). Regular sand is a worse product than poly, it grows weeds fast and blows away easily. Yes, polymeric sand is superior to normal paver sand for several reasons. Both are going to cost the same price for installation, so it’s simply a preference. Coated with a water-activated polymer, polymeric sand bonds together when exposed to moisture, keeping the sand from washing away or blowing out of the joints. Polymeric joint sand will essentially harden like concrete between your paving stones so it is PERMANENT. Over time there may be some washout with extreme water flow. It’s suitable for a range of paver materials, including. Because the sand is very coarse, you must use it regularly. It takes about a minimum of 24 hours for polymeric sand to completely set. Pour 4 inches of gravel into the area, level with a rake, and compact using a temper. It consists of regular sand with an organic binder that. Keeps the paver gaps tightly filled#2. Minimum width between pavers: 1/16 in. Types of Paver Sand: There are different types of paver sand available in the market, including polymeric sand and regular jointing sand. Simply sweep the sand into the joints and saturate with a water mist. Make sure your joints are dry. The choice between regular and polymeric sand depends on personal preference and the type of hardscaping project. As a result of its composition, polymeric sand is better fitted to withstand rain better than regular sand. . As the sand particles fuse, the joint between two patio pavers becomes impenetrable and the pavers are locked in place. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that contains additives that help bind the sand together. I opted for a soft-bristled broom to avoid accidentally scratching or damaging the. Tan Polymeric Sand. It is important to choose a sand that is the same size or smaller than the joints between your pavers. Easier to install and more durable than traditional hardscape aggregate, they also prevent weed growth and insect infestations. Neither rain nor wind can wash away paving sand on a flat surface. Polymeric sand is also easy to find but will cost you more—anywhere from $20 to $90 per 50-pound bag. If you’re looking for polymeric sand that can be used for joints up to 4 inches in size, the Rhino Power Bond Plus is a great choice. Step 4: Get the Required Tools. Besides that, its versatility, low dry time, and durability make it a very attractive option. Both May Be Used for Jointing Paving. Beyond their protective qualities, poly sands and. Maximum width between pavers: 1 in. Eventually, the crust will break away, eroding the joint. The term “polymeric sand” might sound like multiple sort of high-tech, futuristic product, but there’s a good chance you’ve encountered it somewhere along the line. 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. Use a blower to blast out the joints again. Polymeric sands last ten to fifteen years between pavers, depending on the building and experts performing installation techniques. After months of sand loss, I contacted this company. Thus, the most suitable pressure for cleaning pavers is the medium range (From 1600 to 2000 PSI). Polymeric sand contains additives like quartz and silica, while regular sand doesn’t. This creates a stable surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic and various weather conditions. Apply an even, 1-inch layer of sand on top of the compact gravel. Putting it very simply, polymeric sand prevents the growth of any biological life amongst the grout lines of pavers. Sand and decomposed granite have a similar texture, but their composition is. With polymeric sand, pavers won’t shift after pressure-washing the area. They’re Fine. Follow CASASCAPES POLYMERIC SAND installation steps 1 to 6 for a new paver surface. Paint 2 coats of paver sealant over entire patio. Polymeric Sand vs Regular Sand for Pavers. These are just a few tips to keep in mind when sealing pavers with. If you put a thin layer over regular sand, it will peel off. This will repel water, turn the sand rock hard and keep dirt and weeds from growing in between. Polymeric sand is a mix of different fine sands and other additives. Tip Choosing the correct. 2. Super Sand is a fine, dried sand product that has polymers added to it that when activated with water will harden up to resist being washed or blown out of joints less than 1/2″. com. Whether you want your sand to be fixed or loose is the ultimate decision before deciding on the type. Can you pressure wash a paver installation that has polymeric sand? Pavers that have been installed with polymeric sand should always be soft washed and never pressure washed. The key difference between dust and sand is the size of the joints between your stones. 1. With so many different types of pavers to choose from, it can be challenging to pick the right one. Are you tired of hard-to-use sands that don't last and are hard to install?. Polymeric sand also features coarse particles but with the addition of polymers. Durability. Polymeric sand was invented by Techniseal in 1999, and it has improved the installation. Spread polymeric sand in sections. In some applications where the joints between the pavers are rather large (1/4″ or larger) we suggest using the polymeric sand over the joint stabilizing paver sealer because the. This will lock the sand particles together helping secure pavers in a uniform and durable surface. Sand remaining on paver faces can create a slight haze after wetting. Polymeric Sand or paver sand as it is sometimes called is a very fine grain sand that is combined with additives and, when mixed with water, forms a strong bond. Jointing compounds are more expensive. Polymeric sand is made up of a mixture between fine grains and specific additive particles. Continue to add sand and compact it until the sand reaches the top level of the pavers. Many installers cut corners to speed up paving processes. If you’ve done this before, you may have used polymeric sand. Builder’s Sand. If the area is large or has had 24 hours to cure and set, scrub brushes should be used. Why Use Polymeric Sand as a Paver Base. JJS. The polymers activate and help bind the sand particles together when properly installed. Once the crack is filled, spray down with a hose to wet the sand and keep it in place while it dries. Easy to clean with water Will hold water in between the pavers and encourage moss and mold in shaded areas Performance ACCEL polymeric sand vs. Second, it aids in the filling of any fractures or gaps between pavers. Multiple factors make it such, but the low and affordable price is a huge reason for this. What is the difference between polymeric sand vs. 5. Check Price. 1. 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. It consists of regular fine sand particles, combined with silica and quartz, as. 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. Most polysand manufactures refer to concrete overlay as a wet set application where you have the paver set on mortar, the reason they don't want you to use the regular polysand is because still allows water to sip trough then with froze it will start loosing up all the pavers, they have a different sand for this application where that sand is. This special polymeric sand will bind the sand particles together when reacted with water but will not cause a problem known as poly haze. The reason polymeric sand remains strong over time in comparison to fine sand or regular paver sand is because of the special mixture of additive particles used in our ACCEL products. Holes and pockets are part of the character of. 2. Superior Bonding: Polymeric sand contains additives that activate. Using cement as filler between pavers has several drawbacks, the greatest of which is that it does not allow the freedom of movement that joint sand does. Polymeric sand is always better than regular sand for permeable pavers. deep. 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. Issues One of the most common sand-related problems is haze. Paver sand is much coarser than silica sand and is not made up of the same materials. Home. Due to the hard acrylic surface that it creates, this substance has the ability to protect your pavers from stains, grease, oil, and fading. Pavers can make any garden, patio, or walkway look more aesthetically pleasing. 4. This binding assists in creating a strong, interlocking base for pavers, such as when used in walkways, patios, and. With a push broom sweep it into all seams of your paver surface. 4. For more protection, it endures harsh. Choosing the correct type of sand the essential to seal the pavers furthermore provide that they are laid firmly so such the structure lasts longer. Conclusion. regular sand? Regular sand is just natural fine sand from rivers or mining areas. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that's often recommended for paver joints. • Pavers must be installed on a drainage base composed of an upper layer of a maximum 1 inch thickness of bedding sand and a lower layer of compacted crushed stone. 5. Revolutionary Camel Brown Paver Sand – 10lb. Extend your season and get your jobs done this year! Don't worry about drying out your pavers to start filling. It lasts longer while keeping the paver boundRegular Sand Use. Third, level the gaps so it is one surface instead of two uneven surfaces which will cause problems when applying concrete glue to hold everything together securely. Regular and polymeric sand have their pros & cons. Settle the sand by compacting with a hand and/or plate tamper (with rubber pad to protect pavers). Because if you use play sand instead of paver sand for paver, you’ll have to face unwanted painful scenarios. It is specially designed to be applied in the joints of pavers. check the weather. You can purchase this kind of. Its organic binder, Organic-Lock, is water-permeable and forms a gel as it absorbs water during rainfall. Polymeric sand is a special kind of sand that, when combined with water, produces a very effective binding agent that binds cements the sand particles together. The only solution would be to completely remove the polymeric sand redo the whole pathway. Polymeric sand is known to have good binding power and can make your pavers last long. have your tools ready. We applied Polymeric Sand for the pavers, unfortunately we sprinkled before the use of the leaf blower. Specifications. This works in the short-term to stabilize the pavers and prevent them from shifting or moving. 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. I'm in the last steps of installing pavers in my front yard. The best polymeric sand to use is a brand like Surebond. Polymeric sand vs. I just finished excavating old paver walkway, (steps to sidewalk) widened, added new 6″ base, bedding sand, and installed new pavers with polymeric sand for front walkway. These are four of the most common mistakes users of polymeric sand tend to make. regular sand LANDSCAPING Variety of applications - Pavers, Flagstone,Natural stone, ConcreteHowever, your polymeric sand will hold firmly as paver filler if you keep everything in place without damaging the bricks and stones. Traditional masonry sand is swept into the paver joints to fill the joints. It can be used for both residential and commercial types of applications. Step 2: Now you have to take the biggest challenge on your way to installing polymeric sand. The sand will re-heal itself with the paver, sealing the crack. I’ve laid down about 120 pavers to form a walkway from the front to the back of my…Polymeric sand is a blend of properly graded fine sand and a binder compound (polymer) that is specially formulated for filling in the joints between bricks, pavers and natural stones for hardscapes such as patios, driveways and walkways. For any hardscaping project to bear fruit, it must last a long time. You need to go the depth of the paver with poly sand. Cutting Corners. The filled and cured polymeric sand joints should never be in direct contact with foot traffic or tires. Silica sand consists mainly of silica, quartz, clay, dust, and other such substances. You should not use just any sand that you can get a hold of to put in. You should regularly inspect your paver to see if there are any issues with the sanding. Pretty every single manufacturer of polymeric sand in the marketplace has three main ingredients: Quartz silica. This will create a kind of “rail” system in which you will be able to move the 2×4. But if you're working with larger, natural stones with irregular. Skill Level: Beginner. EnviroSAND is flexible so cracking doesn’t occur in the joints. Today, we still offer the highest performing jointing products on the market. Step 1: The first step you need to take while installing paver sand is to fight the prevailing weeds in your patio. Polymeric sand is a popular option for sealing pavers due to its ability to harden and create a strong joint. Today, we still offer the highest performing jointing products on the market. Then continue with these steps: If the surface has a rectangular shape, then all you have to do is multiply these dimensions to get the surface area: A = 19 ft x 8. If it’s a smaller paver area, use boiling water. This creates a fairly strong bond between your pavers that is less likely to be eroded by weather. regular sand. On the other hand, polymeric sand can last for up to 10 or even 15 years before it needs to be replaced. It is a popular. Jointing compounds are more expensive. Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. A final layer is gently swept into the gaps, without the aid of any compaction. This type of sand often comes into play at the end of a landscape paving. Sand can be a mixture of minerals, quartz, feldspar, mica, and silicon dioxide. The challenge is to avoid staining. Skill Level: Beginner. It comes in a 44-pound bucket and is available in three different colors: Neutral, Grey, and Dark Grey. Extend your season and get your jobs done this year! Don't worry about drying out your pavers to start filling. The sand remains hard when dry and flexible when wet. Yes, water will drain through polymeric sand. Within this environment, the sand can expand when wet and not run the risk of protruding out over the tops of the pavers. The term “polymeric sand” might schall like some sort of high-tech, futuristic my, and there’s a good chance you’ve entered it somewhere up and line. Eliminates joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. Best Polymeric Sands. You can also use masonry sand when you're aiming for a more aesthetically pleasing paving project due to its fine texture and neat application. While polymeric sand can provide some benefits, such as increased stability and weed. Paver sand. Regular jointing sand, on the other hand, is a more traditional option and requires periodic. 7 kg (bag) 56Step 3. We'll also provide some tips on how to choose the right polymer sand for. Therefore, dig between 4 to 6 inches deeper for pedestrian walkways. Ultimately, they both fill the gaps between the. Then, use a brush to scrub the pavement with the vinegar and water solution. This term “polymeric sand” ability sonor please any sort of high-tech, futuristic product, but there’s a done chance you’ve encountered it somewhere along the line. This product, applied with a brush or sprayer, fills in the gaps between pavers and hardens to. Launched in the early 2000s, polymeric sand is a material that is manufactured specifically for jointing paving slabs and brick pavers. You can find it anywhere, costing $5 to $20 per 50-pound bag. It is very fine sand, and it has a white or yellowish color. Polymeric sand is also a great option for laying a base for the installation. Updated on March 1, 2023 by Anton Giuroiu. Exterior Use. Mortar. Regular sand is much more likely to slowly trickle out of the joints, leaving your pavers looking sloppy. EnviroSAND and white-washed sand are the two best alternatives to polymeric sand. For more tips on laying pavers, check out our guide — How to Design and Build a Paver Patio. Medium gravel is the most popular choice for a paver base. Damaged pavements and driveways are more than just an eyesore- they can compromise the safety of your landscape. Then you'll need to get all the excess off the surface of the pavers before you water the sand to set it. The 4 Polymeric Sand Alternatives. You can also use cement as an alternative, but it is. This creates a fairly strong bond between your pavers that is less likely to be eroded by weather.