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How to use polymeric sand with brick pavers?

Polymeric sand is probably one of the best joint materials for pavers. This type of sand is a mixture of fine sands and other additives, and when you add water to this mix, it forms a very solid binding agent that can fill spaces between pavers. But, how to use polymeric sand with brick pavers exactly?

In this article, we will talk a little bit more about the use of polymeric sand with brick pavers and the advantages of using this type of joint over regular sand.

well sanded pavers
Pavers that are properly sanded last longer.

How to use polymeric sand with brick pavers?

Before you start, you’re gonna need the following tools and materials:

  • Polymeric sand
  • A broom
  • Vibratory tamper or a plate compactor
  • Leaf blower (optional)
  • Garden hose

Step 1: Spread the Polymeric Sand

Before you start, make sure that the pavers are fully dry, then pour small stacks of polymeric sand over the surface. If you see a spot, add more sand. Pay attention to not put too much sand, otherwise, it will be very hard to remove.

Step 2: Sweep the Sand Into the Cracks

With a broom, sweep all the sand over the pavers in a way that the sand enters inside the cracks. Sweep in opposite directions to make sure it’s all filled. And, if needed, add more sand continuously until all cracks are filled.

Step 3: Tamp the Pavers

Run a plate compactor over the surface to settle the sand down to make sure that the joints are filled. As the sand level drops, add more sand and repeat step 2 and this step.

Step 4: Clear the Surface of the Pavers

Before you water the pavers to set them, it’s super important that the surface doesn’t have any sand in excess, otherwise, any excess will calcify on the surface, making it very hard to remove and even discoloring the pavers. To remove any excesses use a leaf blower or a fine brush, just be careful to not blow the sand out of the cracks.

Step 5: Mist the Pavers

The last step is to water the pavers with a garden rose. This step is super important because the water will activate the binding agent that will set all the pavers in place. Remember to be careful while watering to not wash the sand out of the gaps. After is all done, let it dry for a day or two. Then, check the joints for any gaps, if there are any remaining gaps, more sand can be applied.

Advantages of using polymeric sand

Polymeric sand is a material that you can use to join and set your brick pavers together without chipping or cracking them, but besides that, there are a lot of other advantages when you use polymeric sand with brick pavers

Improves durability

As mentioned earlier, the binding agents in the sand set and lock all the pavers together, and this will make the installation more durable.

Resistant to rain

The silica and other binding additives inside the polymeric sand reduce the amount of water that can go through between the pavers and down into the base materials. This keeps the base foundation under the surface firm and intact.

Keep the weeds and ants away

Weeds can easily grow almost anywhere, no matter how tiny a space is, there is always a chance that a weed will grow there. But, using polymeric sand can help to avoid weeds growing in your new patio or driveway.

They not only keep the weeds away but also keep ants away, since polymeric sand is way finer than regular sand, ants have a difficult time getting into it.

Comes in different colors

Polymeric sand comes in a variety of colors, from gray to beige, there are a ton of options so you can pick the best color to match your pavers.

Can I apply polymeric sand by myself?

You can, but we highly recommend you not to. When you do it by yourself you can cut some expenses, but there is always a good chance of something going wrong and you ending up damaging your pavers. So the best choice by far is to hire a professional to do all the work for you.

From planning projects and cleaning and sealing, we can handle everything! And if you have no idea about the price, you can get a free estimate!

S&S Pavers has over 10 years of experience serving the counties of Manatee and Sarasota. If you live in Sarasota, Manatee, or any of our surrounding counties contact us, we will be glad to assist you!

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