Yes, polymeric sand does stay hard once it has been applied. It is mixed with water to form a hard-setting sand that can be used for a variety of applications, including as an in-fill between pavers and slab joints.
It is also designed to resist erosion and weed growth, making it ideal for outdoor projects. Additionally, polymeric sand is resistant to insect and ant infestations and helps deter the growth of weeds and undesirable grasses.
Once dry, it becomes a hard, solid barrier that won’t allow weeds to penetrate. With a proper sealant, it can last many years with little to no maintenance.
How long does polymeric sand last?
Polymeric sand is designed to be extremely durable, and should last for the life of the structure it’s in, provided the structure has been properly prepared and the Polymeric sand has been applied and cured correctly.
In addition to the base material, Polymeric sand contains resins that are designed to bond the sand particles together and prevent weed growth, insect penetration and washout. These resins will usually last as along as the sand, effectively creating a permanent bond that resists water and other elements.
When properly applied and cured, Polymeric sand should provide years of durable, low maintenance performance without the need for annual reapplication.
When should you not use polymeric sand?
You should not use polymeric sand in areas that are subject to water immersion or areas that receive hard impacts as it is not designed to withstand these conditions. Additionally, areas with high traffic may cause the sand to degrade and wear away over time.
Lastly, if you are using sand adjacent to concrete, make sure that it is no more than ½” thick in the joint to prevent the sand from sticking to the concrete.
Can polymeric sand be removed?
Yes, polymeric sand can be removed relatively easily. Some methods of removal may require a bit of effort and the use of special tools, but overall it is a manageable task. For a more straightforward approach, you can use a garden hose to flush out the sand from the joints.
You can also use a pressure washer to ensure complete removal. Alternatively, some people opt for using a grout saw to break apart the hardened sand. Once the sand has been softened, you can use a soft brush or garden trowel to loosen and remove the sand from the joints.
Can you power wash polymeric sand?
Yes, you can use a power washer to clean polymeric sand. Polymeric sand is a specially formulated mixture of sands combined with water-activated polymers. It is used to fill the joints between pavers and in sand boxes.
When cleaning polymeric sand, it is important to use a low pressure setting to minimize the risk of damaging the pavers or joints. You should also stand back at least three feet away from the pavers when using a power washer.
Be sure to thoroughly rinse the area after washing to remove any residue.
You can use a detergent or mixture of detergent and water to help break up any dirt or debris that was dislodged during the power washing process. Finally, a light broom or small push broom can be used to redistribute the polymeric sand and make sure the joints are filled in evenly.
Will water drain through polymeric sand?
Yes, water will drain through polymeric sand. Polymeric sand is a unique type of sand made of perfect-sized particles that hold together and can be used as an effective drainage solution. Its composition ensures that the sand will solidify and interlock upon the application of water, while maintaining adequate drainage.
This solidity of the sand prevents weeds and pests from entering the spaces between pavers. Furthermore, the water that passes through these spaces is not just allowed to stagnate, but is instead directed away from the surface, ensuring proper drainage.
Polymeric sand is a great choice for both commercial and residential applications, making it a good choice for use around patios, driveways, retaining walls and other surfaces where water may build up.
How do you remove hardened polymeric sand from pavers?
Removing hardened polymeric sand from pavers requires a few simple steps. First, you will need to wet the area with a hose or a bucket of water with a small amount of mild detergent. Then, scrub the area with a stiff brush or a broom.
Alternatively, you can rent a pressure washer to remove the sand. After the area has been scrubbed, sweep the loosened sand off the pavers. Depending on the size of the area, you may want to rent a industrial vacuum cleaner to help with this task.
Once the sand has been removed, be sure to rinse the pavers thoroughly. Pat the pavers dry with a lint-free rag to avoid water spots. Once the surface of the pavers is dry, you can apply a sealer or a coat of paint if desired to help protect them.
Can I put new polymeric sand over old polymeric sand?
Yes, you can put new polymeric sand over old polymeric sand, but there are a few steps you need to take to ensure proper installation. First, you will need to remove any old polymeric sand that remains in the joints between the pavers.
Use a putty knife, screwdriver or similar tool to scrape out the old sand. Be sure to clean all of the joints thoroughly to ensure good adhesion. Next, use a garden hose to wet the joints and the new polymeric sand with a light stream of water.
This will activate the polymers and help create a more secure bond. Finally, spread the new polymeric sand throughout the joints in the pavers. Use the broom to sweep the sand down into the joints and then tamp the pavers with a plate compactor, pole tamper or hand tamper to be sure the sand is secure and has settled in all the cracks and joints.
What kind of sand do you use for paver base?
For a paver base, it is important to use a sharp, angular sand, generally known as a “grading” or “construction” sand. This type of sand is made up of small, coarse particles which provides excellent stability as a base for pavers.
Grading sand is also often referred to as concrete sand, specifically washed concrete sand or brick sand. It should be noted that masonry sand, also known as ‘play sand’, is not the same as grading sand and should not be used for paver bases.
Sand from a coastal beach area may also not be ideal for paver bases, as it is made of more rounded particles and may create an unstable base which is too soft for the pavers.
Will polymeric sand stop pavers from moving?
Yes, polymeric sand can be effective in helping to stop pavers from moving. The polymeric sand creates a binding agent within the joints of the pavers, which helps to hold the pavers in place. The polymeric sand also helps to fill in small gaps between the pavers, which helps keep out weeds, insects, and other debris, which can cause the pavers to shift.
Additional steps need to be taken in order to ensure that pavers will not move, such as using edging along the perimeter of the pavers to serve as a physical barrier to the pavers. Additionally, using the proper amount of polymeric sand, and thoroughly compacting it between the pavers, can go a long way in ensuring that pavers are securely held in place.