Best Polymeric Sand Review: Well, in this post, I’ll walk you through the various aspects of polymeric sand to help you make an informed decision.
Furthermore, I’ll throw some light on the parameters that are important to consider when it comes to smart buying.
Lastly, I’ll take some of the frequently asked questions from my readers as well as clientele.
In short, you’ll get all the required pieces of information related to polymer sand.
Well, to begin with, if you’re working or planning to work on a paver project, then besides other essential parameters, it is also important to do some research on polymeric sand that you’re thinking of using in the project.
Don’t worry, if you haven’t decided on the polymeric sand, we’re here to help you with the required piece of information.
Moreover, if you’re hearing the word “polymeric sand” for the first time, then keep reading, we’ll explain and discuss every bit of polymeric sand.
Before diving deep into the topic, let me tell you, choosing quality polymeric sand isn’t as easy as it may seem to be.
Needless to say, in this newbie-friendly, comprehensive guide, you’ll get to know about the best polymeric sand available on the market.
So, without further ado, let’s begin…
Editor’s Recommended: Best Polymeric Sand
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Best Polymeric Sand Review
All the polymeric sand that was made to our product review list has done fairly well on all the parameters that we considered for the evaluation.
Most of these polymeric sands have been used by our clients, and they have given good feedback about the products.
But, before I discuss these products in detail, allow me to educate you a bit more about polymeric sand.
Especially the first-time buyers and newbies will get benefited from this information.
Does it sound good?
What is Polymeric Sand?
As the name suggests, polymeric sand is an idiosyncratic mixture of fine sands combined with other additives such as polymers.
Silica is one such additive that is used in polymeric sand to help lock the fine sand particles together.
In layman’s language, it is a unique type of sand that gets hardens when dried and activated.
At the same time, it remains flexible when wet.
Well, the “flexibility” property of the polymeric sand plays a crucial role in the region where the ground freezes and defrosts repeatedly at small time intervals.
Polymeric sand was invented by Techniseal in 1999.
Benefits of Polymeric Sand
Well, to start with, the biggest advantage of polymeric sand is that it’s a deterrent to weed growth.
In layman’s terms, it discourages the growth of weeds, moss, and other similar plants.
Another big advantage of using polymeric sand is that it discourages ant invasion.
Needless to say, an ant can be a tricky affair to deal with when it comes to stone pavement.
You can expect a deterrent to erosion because polymeric sand binds the stone tightly.
The good thing about polymeric sand is that it adapts to the environment changes quickly.
Moreover, these sands are largely resistant to the damage made by the harsh climate.
Polymeric sand also increases the durability of the stone pavement because it binds the stone slab very efficiently.
Lastly, polymeric sand has a great visual appeal because it can be made in any color.
Best Polymeric Sand
I hope that you’ll NOT only enjoy our product review but will also use the piece of information provided in this post to make your project successful.
Dominator Polymeric Sand: Is this the best sand for paver joints?
It goes without saying that Dominator polymeric sand is a premium product and could be a great recommendation for those who aren’t ready to either compromise on the visual appearance or the performance.
High Performance
Many newbies and first-time buyers wouldn’t be aware of the fact that Dominator is the first haze-free joint stabilizing sand of its kind.
Flexibility is an important feature of the polymeric sand and is very important to ensure long-lasting stabilized joints.
And, you know what, all the credit goes to the Solid Flex technology.
A few years back, there weren’t many professional options available for the end-users in terms of polymeric sand.
Dominator has made it possible with the help of revolutionary Solid Flex technology.
Moreover, even though, you’re a first-time buyer, you don’t need to worry about the installation procedure as Dominator comes with an installation guide to help you ensure proper installation.
Well, I’ve got a piece of good news for people who have a keen interest in visual appearance.
This high-quality joint stabilizing sand comes in several appealing colors such as Titanium, Natural, Taupe, Carmel, and Charcoal.
So, you don’t have to be pigeonholed in a color or two, interesting, isn’t it?
Installation
Applying Dominator polymeric sand is quite easy.
Trust me, the process will NOT consume much of your time or energy.
All you need to do is to select dry and rain-free weather for the installation purpose.
As compared to its counterparts, the application time is quite less because it sweeps easily into the joint and rinses easily as well.
However, I’ll not deny the fact that some clean-up will be needed after applying this sand.
During the installation process, you need to keep two things in mind.
First and foremost, the surface on which Dominator is going to be applied must be dry.
Secondly, it must have a proper drainage system.
Even newbies and first-time users will find the installation process user-friendly because it is made of fine sand and cement-free formula.
Well, do I still need to convince you that the product is superlative?
Pros and Cons
Let’s have a quick look at the Pros and Cons to help you make an informed buying decision.
Pros
- User-Friendly and easy-to-follow instruction
- A variety of color options
- Minimal cleanup required
- Solid-Flex technology
- Cement-free formula
Cons
- Costly
- You may HATE cleaning pavers after the installation process
Sakrete Paver Set: Is this the best sand for block paving?
Well, Sakrete Polymeric Sand might be a great option in case you’re on a shoestring budget.
Moreover, this polymeric sand is one of the best options available on the market when it comes to filling paving stone joints.
Furthermore, the company claims Sakrete to be a premium brand and it is engineered to resist wind, rain, freezing conditions, and substrate movement without washing away.
The thing that grabbed my eyeball was the user-friendly installation process.
Even the newbies can install this polymeric sand on its own without any professional help.
Sakrete is a mixture of sand and special polymer additives designed for filling paver joints.
I would recommend you start the installation process only when you’re sure of the weather to be dry and clear for at least a few days.
It will help you to avoid washing out of Sakrete polymeric sand.
In case, you’re very particular about the color of this polymeric sand, then I’ve got a piece of bad news for you.
These polymeric sands are available in ONLY gray color.
Nonetheless, gray is the most popular poly sand color and is widely accepted.
Furthermore, the price suffices for the color.
Value for money
It goes without saying that Sakrete Polymeric Sand is a “value for money” product.
At around 70 dollars it offers a coverage area of 56 feet which is definitely a better deal as compared to its counterparts.
I’ve personally used it in a variety of paver projects, and my experience with Sakrete Polymeric Sand has been mind-boggling.
Trust me, it is one of the most popular budget-friendly polymer sand.
Moreover, it performs at par with its counterparts at a fraction of their price.
What more can you expect from Sakrete Polymeric Sand?
Pros and Cons
I’ll walk you through the Pros and Cons of Sakrete Polymeric Sand to help you make an informed buying decision.
Pros
- Affordable
- Stability and reasonable performance
- Decent coverage
- Easy installation
- Good coverage
Cons
- Limited color
- Polymers don’t cure as quickly
Alliance Gator Polymeric “Super” Sand: Is this the best polymeric jointing sand?
If not the favorite, then Alliance Gator Polymeric “Super” Sand is one of the favorites of the contractors for a variety of reasons.
To start with, it is a unique blend of calibrated sand and polymeric binders.
The USP of Alliance polymeric sand is haze-free technology.
This idiosyncratic technology performs two functions simultaneously.
- Provides a clean finish appearance
- Keeps the pavers looking great
The thing that grabbed my eyeballs about Alliance polymeric sand is its user-friendly application.
It goes without saying that the installation process is quite easy and even first-time buyers can apply it without the need for any professional help.
Similar to the regular sand, you’ve to mist Alliance polymeric sand with water and let it set.
Sets fast
The Alliance polymeric sand is highly popular among the end-users because of its quick setting design.
Above freezing temperature, it can settle within an hour and the credit goes to the advanced formula used by Alliance.
On the contrary, its closest competitors and some leading brands take hours to set and cure.
Needless to say, dry weather definitely fastens the setting process.
However, when Alliance was used along with some leading polymeric sands in the exact same conditions, the former was found to settle much faster and quicker.
How many of you are aware of the fact that Alliance polymeric sand has the ability to flex and self-heal?
Wait, I’m not done yet.
It is surprisingly good at some other things as well.
- Resist cracking for years to come
- Highly capable of keeping the weeds at bay
- Durable
Well, if you’re very particular about the look and feel of the polymeric sand, then there is a high probability that you’ll get disappointed.
Unfortunately, it is only available in slate gray.
Nevertheless, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the “super” quality of this premium polymeric sand suffices for the color.
Still, confused?
Pros and Cons
Let’s have a quick look at the pros and cons of Alliance polymeric sand.
Pros
- Sets quickly
- Durable
- Flexible
- Multi-purpose: suitable for a variety of paving projects
- User-friendly
- Easy installation
Cons
- Limited color
Buddingco Stabilizing Sand | Best Polymeric Sand For Pavers
So, here I come with yet another top-rated polymeric sand that you’ll NEVER regret investing in.
To be honest, it is one of the best polymeric sands for pavers that we’ve come across in recent times.
The feedback that we received about this best polymeric sand for pavers is mind-boggling and literally above our expectations.
I literally liked the fact about Buddingco Stabilizing Sand is that it can be used on false joint pavers which is definitely something that you can’t expect from cheap polymeric sands.
Correct me, if I’m wrong.
The main reason for recommending Buddingco Stabilizing Sand is its wide range of uses.
In fact, you can use it for pool decks, patios, footpaths, driveways, parking spaces, pavements, etc making it one of a kind.
It goes without saying that Buddingco Stabilizing Sand is a unique blend of convenience and flexibility which isn’t the case with its competitors.
The best polymeric sand for brick pavers can do wonders, especially in cold climatic zones, rainy and windy areas because of its ability to prevent erosion caused due to wind, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles.
It provides a coverage of 18 square feet which is decent as per the industry standards.
Pros and Cons
Wouldn’t you be interested in having a quick look at the pros and cons of Buddingco Stabilizing Sand?
Pros
- Compatible with false joint pavers
- Deals effectively with issues such as erosion
- Multipurse polymeric sand for pavers
- Reasonably priced
- 18 square feet of coverage
Cons
- Some of our clients had issues in the past with the hardening of the sand as well as complained about variations in color
Gator Maxx G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand | Best Polymeric Sand For Natural Stone
So, here I come with one of my favorite polymeric sands for natural stone.
Trust me, I’ve personally used it and the outcome was beyond my expectation.
Even our clients were satisfied with its performance and were ready to recommend it to their friends and families.
The installation process is quick, easy, and newbie-friendly.
Furthermore, the GATOR MAXX SAND is known for providing long-lasting, durable, and jointing material.
Of course, like the aforementioned polymeric sand, it can be used for multiple applications including parking spaces, footpaths, and driveways.
One thing that I really admire about Gator Maxx G2 is its ability to remain flexible even after becoming firm and locking between the paver joints.
Do let us know in the comment section, your view about this idiosyncratic superlative polymeric sand for natural stone.
Pros and Cons
The pros and cons will help you in making an informed buying decision.
Pros
- Quick, easy, and newbie-friendly installation
- Multipurpose polymeric sand
- Durable, flexible, and long-lasting
- Best polymeric sand for concrete pavers, and natural stones
- Value for money polymeric sand
Cons
- Some of our clients complained that the color of the sand was tan and NOT grey
ConSandtrate Polymeric Sand Concentrate | Best Polymeric Sand For Aggregate Pavers
So, are you looking for reasonably priced polymeric sand for aggregate pavers?
If that is the case, stay tuned with us as we’re gonna talk nuts and bolts about ConSandtrate Polymeric Sand Concentrate.
In layman’s terms, it is equipped with almost all the essential ingredients that you might be looking for in your best polymeric sand for the money.
Well, don’t trust me?
Keep reading…
The idiosyncratic thing about ConSANDtrate is that it is a unique blend of polymers.
In order to get the best results, you need to add the dry sand in a 1:10 ratio, that is 10 parts of dry sand are mixed with 1 part of ConSANDtrate.
The sand is highly flexible and gives you the option to mix your own custom colors.
Its primary purpose is to act as a crack filler for both concrete and exposed aggregate slabs.
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.
Pros and Cons
Like the aforementioned polymeric sands, the ConSANDtrate has its own share of pros and cons.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Successfully solidifies the loose granite sand edging
- Easy and convenient to use
- Superlative appearance
- Performs extremely well on patio cracks and expansion joints
Cons
- Quite a few of our clients weren’t satisfied with ConSANDtrate performance
Mutual Industries Lock-EM-Up Paver Sand | Best Polymeric Sand For Small Joints
The Mutual Industries Lock-EM-Up Paver Sand is definitely one of my favorites when it comes to dealing with small joints.
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.
In layman’s terms, the Lock-EM-Up Paver Sand successfully secures pavers in place.
The installation process is simple and will not consume much of your time.
And, the best part is, the Lock-EM-Up Paver Sand is reasonably priced so it will not cost you a fortune.
In fact, even though you’re on a shoestring budget, you can easily afford this polymeric sand.
All in all, Lock-EM-Up Paver Sand is one of the best polymeric sands for the money that you’ll NOT regret investing in.
Our clients have given positive responses and are willing to explore this little beast.
Pros and Cons
Let’s have a quick look at the pros and cons of Lock-EM-Up Paver Sand.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Convenient and easy to use
- Newbie-friendly installation
- Durable and last-longer
Cons
- Quite a few clients said that the hardness wasn’t as per their expectation
Best Polymeric Sand for Pavers: Buyer’s Guide
There are certain products that aren’t a household name and polymeric sand is one of them.
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.
As discussed earlier also, polymeric sand is comprised of fine sand and polymeric additive.
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.
Nonetheless, the most commonly used ingredients are quartz and crystalline silica.
More than half of polymeric sand contains the aforementioned ingredients.
Water activation makes these sands so effective.
If you’re a first-time buyer and don’t know what water activation means, then allow me to explain it to you.
In layman’s terms, when water is applied to the polymeric sand, the polymer between the sand particles begins binding them together, and this process is called water activation.
In case, you’ve any doubts or queries, feel free to ask in the comment section.
Which is Better for Paver: Polymeric Sand or Regular Sand
Until polymeric sand wasn’t invented, regular sand was used to fill the joints between the pavers.
The main problem with regular sand is that it washes out very quickly, and at the same time, it also needs constant upkeep and replacement.
To get rid of the aforementioned problems, polymeric sand was introduced.
Trust me, in every sense, polymeric sand was a game-changer.
Moving further, I’ll throw some light on the idiosyncratic features of polymeric sand and also, why is it better than regular sand.
- Unmatchable durability: As compared to regular sand, polymeric sands are highly durable. The unique additives used in the polymeric sand help it to lock pavers for long-lasting strength and durability
- Fewer washouts: Foundation of any paver project can be jeopardized because of washing out of regular sand after heavy rain. On the contrary, polymeric sand doesn’t wash out and stays locked in place.
- Lesser weeds: I’m not saying that the polymeric sand will completely prevent the weed from sprouting out in your patio or walkway, but it will definitely check the growth of the weed.
- Ants Control: I’ve mentioned this point at the start of this post as well. It is one of the important benefits of using polymeric sand. It goes without saying that it is almost next to impossible for the ants to crawl into and make a home between pavers bound with polymeric sand.
- Color options: Though not all the polymeric sand brands still a few of them come with polymeric sand in a variety of colors. Furthermore, multiple color options can definitely complement an array of pavers, stones, and outdoor designs.
How to apply polymeric sand?
Take any paver joint stabilization sand, and compared it with any other polymeric sand application process.
You’ll find a lot of similarities.
But, before you start the application of polymeric sand, keep in mind to keep track of the weather condition as it may act as a spoiler.
It’s always advisable to start the installation process on a sunny day and dry climate.
Once you’ve selected the day, all you need to do is to sweep the polymeric sand between the pavers and into the joints.
Afterward, compact the sand and the pavers.
For the optimum result, it’s advisable to do the process twice.
Furthermore, the top of the joints with a third sweep of sand.
By doing so, you’ll negate even the smallest of the chance of the weeds finding a way through.
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 sand is in the correct position and that none is left on any of the paver prior to wetting.
The aforementioned step is an important one and you need to expedite it smartly.
The good news is, we’re done with almost all the steps except the final one.
Before executing the final step, it’s good to cross-check the previous steps.
Well, your wait is over and we’re into the final step now.
Finally, you need to wet the polymeric sand so that it can set well.
Already we’ve discussed at the beginning of this post that additives present in the polymeric sand used water to bond well.
One important thing I would like to bring to your notice is that the manufacturers have started bringing changes 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.
So, I would request you to read and follow the instruction carefully.
However, I’m gonna share with you the steps that I’ve been implementing in my various paver projects.
Does it make sense?
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.
Furthermore, you should spray all of the poly sand particles off of the pavers without washing them out of the joints.
Moreover, for this reason, the mist setting on a spray nozzle is usually best.
The mist plays a crucial role as it activates the polymers and as a result, the sand begins to harden.
As per the industry standards and most of the manufacturers’ recommendations, you should let the sand to set and cure for 15 minutes.
Again, give the paved area another light mist.
Can you guess, how much time will it take for the polymeric sand to harden and fully activate?Let me know your answer in the comment section, let’s see, how close are you?
Well, ending up all the speculations, it will take between (24-72) hours to fully activate and harden the sand.
However, things change quite a bit, if your project is located in a sunny area.
Within a couple of hours, you would be able to walk on it without the sand getting stuck to your shoes.
FAQs
In this section, I’ll be answering quite a few questions that are either asked by my clientele or my readers.
In case, you also want to clear your doubt, then feel free to ask me in the comment section.
Is polymer sand safe?
As per the MSDS of many manufacturers, it is very important for you to wear a breathing mask while using poly sand products.
I did some research and couldn’t come to any conclusion because of the lack of concrete data.
Nevertheless, most polymer sand manufacturers use Silica as one of the key components.
The problem with inhaling silica for a long duration is that it can lead to inflamed lung tissue, a condition known as Silicosis.
Ignoring silicosis can lead to lung fibrosis and a further increased risk of developing tuberculosis.
To sum up, whenever I’m working on a paver project or I’m using polymeric sand in my project, I always follow manufacturer recommendations and definitely exploit some sort of breathing protection equipment.What is the ideal temperature for applying polymeric sand?
In this kind of ambiguous situation, I always follow what the polymeric sand manufacturers recommend.
It makes sense, right?
A majority of polymeric sand manufacturers recommend a minimum ambient temperature that is just above freezing when applying the product.
On the other hand, there are a set of manufacturers that recommend a temperature range of 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit for better binding and end results.
Should one use polymeric sand around pools?
Definitely, you can go ahead and use polymeric sand around the pools.
At times, it has been found that a small portion of the sand installation will wash out, so you may need to re-apply on a constant basis.
Can polymeric sand be added on top of existing joint sand?
Well, this is an important question for a newbie as well as a first-time buyer.
At times, people buy the correct polymeric sand but due to the lack of knowledge, they end up installing it in the wrong way.
So, what’s the solution?
Remember, if you want polymeric sand to harden and set properly between the joints and the pavers, then it is important that you fill the entire joint from top to bottom.
On the contrary, adding polymeric sand on top of existing sand will not at all make joints impermeable to weeds, ants, washouts, and erosion.
Did you get the answer to your query?
For example, if you’re planning to renovate a patio or a walkway with polymeric sand, then first and foremost, you need to clean existing sand between the pavers using a hose or a pressure washer.
Wrapping Up The Best Polymeric Sand Review
Well, I’ve worked on quite a few paver projects, and I can assure you, polymeric sand has become my best friend.
At times, it has delivered much more than my expectations.
Literally, polymeric sands are great at keeping the weed at bay as well as stabilizing the joints.
Frankly speaking, there is nothing like the “best polymeric sand”.
In fact, it’s totally a relative perspective.
For example, I use different types of polymeric sand for different paver projects.
I’ve talked about the top 3 polymeric-sand that have given me superlative results.
In short, it is you, who has to take a final call.
Ask yourself, a few questions if you’re in a confused state of mind.
For example, Am I on a shoestring budget?
What is my priority: the fast result or overall performance and the long-lasting result?
The more you’ll ask questions to yourself the better will be your clarity on the product.
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