Polymer Sand: A Game-Changer for Paver Longevity

Pavers are a popular choice among homeowners looking to enhance their driveways, walkways and patios. In addition to offering plenty of aesthetic value, they are also hardwearing and durable. However, their durability actually depends, to a large extent, on the joint sand used. Fox Hollow strongly recommends using polymeric sand to install pavers. Let’s take a look at the benefits of this sand and why it is better than other options.

What Is Polymeric Sand?

Polymeric sand is a blend of fine sand and special polymeric additives that form a potent binding agent when exposed to water. When the sand is applied between the pavers and then moistened, the polymeric additives bind the grains together to create a firm joint, and the pavers are firmly locked in place.

Polymer Paver Sand vs. Traditional Sand

Regular sand has been used to install pavers for years and has worked perfectly well for most homeowners. Ordinary sand is easy to apply and it enables shifts and adjustments whenever necessary. However, it does not create an impenetrable bond that will keep the stones securely in place over an extended period. Polymeric sand, with its strong binding agent, provides this strength and permanence, creating a sturdy and stable surface. It also enhances the aesthetic value of the paving, being available in a variety of colors and maintaining a pristine appearance for years. 

Benefits of Polymer Sand for Residential and Commercial Spaces

Polymeric paver sand has a number of benefits aside from its ability to create a firm, stable bond between pavers. It withstands weather fluctuations and is less prone to erosion.

The tight bond formed by polymeric sand also prevents weed growth, because it does not leave any room for weeds to spring up between the pavers. Ants and other small insects are also unable to penetrate through polymeric sand. Traditional sand offers no resistance at all to these common pests.

As already mentioned, the benefits of polymer sand are not limited to practical considerations. It also offers a clean look and minimizes the risk of staining, resulting in an enhanced and more consistent aesthetic appeal.

Some important points to remember: Patio polymeric sand hardens very quickly once it is made wet. It must be kept dry throughout the application, with water being applied only at the very end of the process. You can’t work with this sand while it is wet. If polymer sand is not correctly installed, it can actually ruin your paving and all its benefits will be nullified. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, or employ professional paver installers to carry out this task for you. If you do so, you will enjoy the full benefits of polymer sand.

How Polymeric Sand Protects Your Pavers From the Weather

Polymeric sand is resistant to changes in weather and heavy rain. Traditional sand is likely to seep out of joints during wet weather. Polymeric sand is not susceptible to this, as it sets strong and hard, and rain will simply wash over it. In colder weather, water can seep into traditional sand and then freeze, which could result in cracks and separations between pavers. Again, because polymeric sand forms a firm bond, moisture cannot seep into it, so the risk of damage from ice is heavily reduced. 

Polymer sand certainly offers an innovative and effective paving solution. If you would like to know more about your paving options, or if you need professional landscaping or hardscaping services, contact Fox Hollow Landscaping and Design.