Polymeric sand needs to be set before any precipitation, including rain, in order to ensure that the sand and the pavers remain in place. This typically takes between 24 and 48 hours depending on the specific product you are using and the temperature/conditions of the environment.
During the setting time, it is important to keep traffic off the area in order to avoid any early settling of the sand. In addition, it is important to ensure that the sand is completely dry before applying any water, as the excess water will shorten the time it takes for the sand to set.
Any rain that occurs during the setting time should be avoided and the area should be covered with a tarp or other covering to protect the sand from getting washed away and to ensure that the bond between the pavers and the sand holds.
What if it rains after applying polymeric sand?
If it rains after applying polymeric sand, it can cause the sand and sealant to activate too soon and the bond may not be as strong. To avoid this, you should use a waterproofing sealant that can be applied on top of the polymeric sand to help seal it further.
If it does rain, it’s best to try and cover any areas of the sand that were just applied and wait until the surface is completely dry before adding any additional layers. Depending on the type of polymeric sand and sealant used, it’s a good idea to wait a few days before using the area and be sure to read the packaging instructions carefully prior to application.
Why won’t my polymeric sand won’t Harden?
There could be several reasons why your polymeric sand won’t harden. The most common issue is that it may not have been applied properly in the first place. Polymeric sand must be installed carefully, with the sand spread evenly across the entire joint and then compacted firmly with either a hand tamper or a heavy rolling compactor.
If the proper technique is not used, the sand will not bond properly to the surrounding pavers and will not harden.
In addition to not following the correct application procedure, poor curing conditions can also prevent proper hardening of the polymeric sand. Ideally, the sand should be left to cure for 24 to 48 hours without any rain, before any excess sand is swept away.
If you are worried that rain may be a problem, you can also mist the sand with water to aid in the curing process.
Finally, it is possible that the polymeric sand you used is too old. Polymeric sand has an expiration date, usually between two and three years, and it will become less reliable if the product has been improperly stored or is past its expiration date.
If you suspect that your polymeric sand may be too old, it is best to replace it and try again.
Can weeds grow through polymeric sand?
No, weeds cannot grow through polymeric sand. Polymeric sand, also known as jointing or polymer jointing sand, is specifically designed so that it does not allow plants or weeds to grow through it. This is because the sand is a type of polymer which consists of particles that swell and bind together when exposed to moisture.
This reaction prevents air, water and small weeds from entering through the joints between pavers or slabs. As they are unable to get the nutrients they need to sustain themselves, they will not grow.
Additionally, the jointing sand’s chemical composition prevents any organic matter that falls in between pavers, such as leaves or soil, from taking root.
How often should you water polymeric sand?
Polymeric sand should be watered immediately after it is installed. Water activates the polymeric binder and binds the sand particles together. After installation, it should then be watered regularly, on average once a week, or whenever rain is forecasted.
Keep in mind that polymeric sand should never be allowed to dry out. Generally, if the sand and surrounding area look dry, it is time to water. It is important to note that some manufacturers may have different instructions regarding watering, so make sure to always follow the instructions provided by the specific polymeric sand you have purchased.
Will polymeric sand stop pavers from moving?
Yes, polymeric sand can help to stop pavers from moving. When it is installed correctly, the sand binds the pavers together, creating a strong bond and forming an joints that are resistant to weed growth, erosion and ants.
Polymeric sand is a mix of finely ground sand and special binding agents. When the sand is dry, the binding agents ‘set’ the sand and crystallize between the pavers, filling in and stabilizing the joints.
Polymeric sand also helps to protect and maintain the stability of the pavers. By increasing the interlock of the pavers and helping to form a solid base, polymeric sand makes it difficult for the pavers to move or shift.
Additionally, polymeric sand helps to keep pavers from becoming loose or wobbling in areas susceptible to erosion or weathering.
Is polymeric sand permanent?
Polymeric sand is designed to be a permanent fixture when it’s used in a residential or commercial paver installation. Once it’s properly installed, polymeric sand bonds together and hardens between the joints of pavers, creating an interlock that is designed to be durable and long lasting.
This is different from traditional sand, which is easily pushed and displaced by wind and weather. The strong bond that polymeric sand creates should offer lifelong durability; however, it’s important to keep in mind that polymeric sand is only as good as the surface it’s applied to.
Any installation that’s not properly compacted, aligned, or has weak base materials may not provide the same level of polymeric sand performance. For the best results, an experienced paver installation professional should be consulted.
Can I put new polymeric sand over old polymeric sand?
Yes, you can put new polymeric sand over old polymeric sand if the old sand is still in good condition. However, it is important to ensure all the old sand is completely removed, as any old pieces left behind can react with the new sand and cause the whole bed to become unstable.
Before laying down the new sand, use a small hand broom to sweep off any old sand, dirt, leaves, and debris on the area. Also, if the old sand is flagging, cracked, or distorted, it’s best to completely remove it and start fresh with new sand.
If you’d like, you can put a thin layer of the new sand on the existing old sand to soften and even it out, but this layer of new sand should still be taken up and properly cleaned and removed before applying the full layer of new sand.
When applying the new layer of sand, it’s important to do it by hand. This ensures that you’re able to evenly spread the sand and evenly compact it. Once the sand is compacted a light mist of water should be sprayed all over the area to activate the polymers in the sand and properly set the sand.
Can you add a second layer of polymeric sand?
Yes, you can add a second layer of polymeric sand. When it comes to using a second layer of polymeric sand, it is recommended to first sweep the entire area so that you remove any loose material and then apply the new layer of polymeric sand.
Use a straight edge tool, such as a straight piece of wood, and go over the entire area to ensure an even application. Apply the new layer of polymeric sand and, using a broom, sweep the area in one direction until an even layer of the polymeric sand is achieved.
Once the sand is set in place, lightly mist it with water to help the polymeric sand cure, and then let it sit for 24 to 72 hours. This should give you a second layer of polymeric sand that will help to keep the patio, walkway, or driveway pieces in place.
Is there cement in polymeric sand?
No, there is no cement in polymeric sand. Polymeric sand is a special blend of fine sand and polymer binders designed to be used in the filling of joints between interlocking pavers and stone. It provides superior joint stabilization, helping to keep weeds and ants out, while providing a very nice finished look.
Polymeric sand helps to keep the sand in the joints from eroding or becoming dislodged due to rain or wind. It also helps to keep the paver joint surface even and free of large gaps or voids. The polymer binders in the sand set up with moisture in the joint, to help form an incredibly strong bond between the pavers.
In most cases, once the sand has been activated with water, it nulls itself out, leaving the original sand granules in its place.