. The application of polymeric sand marks the final stage of any paving project. 4 inches x 17. Composed of a mix of graded sand and binder that flows smoothly down joints, it allows for a fast and effective installation of pavers. This type of sand often comes into play at the end of a landscape paving. Landscape Products 2023 (Ontario) Download. ADDED: And it helps prevent cracking due to minimal expansion and contraction (likely avoiding the need for a true expansion joint between coping and patio). Extend your season and get your jobs done this year! Don't worry about drying out your pavers to start filling. Free Ship-to-Store. For example, you can use cement, Builder’s Sand, stone dust, Envirosand, Permasand, silica sand, or vermiculite as an option. Yes, polymeric sand can be pressure washed with a pressure washer if desired. Take care to uncover any fire pit holes that might have been lost beneath the sand. Well, this sand is flexible, which makes it an ideal option for contractors and homeowners. Blow across the pavers, not down, otherwise you can blow too much sand out of the cracks. But, it doesn’t provide as good weed-prevention qualities as polymeric sand can give. Step 2: Now you have to take the biggest challenge on your way to installing polymeric sand. Polymeric sand typically takes 24 to 48 hours to cure and become fully effective. You could replace all of that with just 7-9 pounds of filter balls. Some polymeric sands contain cement, and this can create an unflattering haze that can be hard to remove. Our original and time-tested Gator Supersand is a high performance polymeric sand designed for concrete, wet cast, and natural stone paver applications with joints of up to 1”. Regular sand is a perfect alternative for polymeric sand when the design requires some adjustments. The best alternative is to use polymeric sand, which bonds the pavers together, keeps out weeds, and is less susceptible to ants. Here are some alternatives to consider: Stone Dust: This is a cheaper option than polymeric sand and can be used to fill up the gaps between pavers. The advantage of polymeric sand is its binding properties, which is part of the whole 'interlocking' thing of pavers, and it's resistance to being washed away. With organic materials, you will avoid having the white haze form on your. The rest of the ingredients are some type of filler and the proprietary glue. The polymeric sand lasted maybe a year before sand clumps started coming out of the joints and ants were infiltrating the sand (which may have been the cause for the clumps). Polymeric sand and regular sand may both be used for filling the joints of pavers including bricks, paving stones, and natural stone. Foam sealant strip. for joints 1/4 In. C. It doesn’t harden like polymeric sand, but it is. Combined with additives, including silica, that bind when exposed to water, it produces a strong, stable, durable surface. What happens if polymeric sand gets rained on? After installation, a hard rain on polymeric sand that has not fully set up could result in polymeric sand all over the top of the pavers. Polymeric sand is fortified with polymer to prevent washout between pavers. Polymeric sand is an effective alternative to a quick-fix mason sand solution, which tends to be little more than a temporary fix for concealing weeds and refreshing the appearance of one’s patio. However, if you used an ICPI-recommended hybrid or open-graded base with 3/4" angular stone as a base and 3/16" angular chips as the bedding material then. No doubt many patios and walkways were done with sand before polymerics came along. Cement: Polymeric Sand Alternative. It's economical, versatile and easy to work with. Crystalline silica. EasyJoint is the All Weather Joint compound. The polymeric sand market share is expected to increase by USD 31. Today we talk about polymeric sand problems and how to solve them. ADDED: And it helps prevent cracking due to minimal expansion and contraction (likely avoiding the need for a true expansion joint between coping and patio). Place the flagstones on top of the sand in the desired pattern. It's economical, versatile and easy to work with. The hardscape industry's leading polymeric sand, Techniseal is a high performance jointing product that can be used. This means that water can flow through it. Next, use a pressure washer with a wide nozzle to gently remove the sand, being careful not to damage the pavers. 4. Here are some alternatives to consider: Stone Dust: This is a cheaper option than polymeric sand and can be used to fill up the gaps between pavers. Coverage: 40 Lb. 5 inches wide. Overall durability. If you are on a tight budget, stone dust is going to be the best alternative to polymeric sand that you can get. Once cured, polymeric sand will create a strong and durable bond between pavers, reducing the risk of weeds and insect infestation. 20 x 20. Finding polymeric sand alternatives for pavers might help you transform the look of your driveway. Polymeric sands last ten to fifteen years between pavers, depending on the building and experts performing installation techniques. Application Depth. EnviroSAND and white-washed sand are the two best alternatives to polymeric sand. I’m going to share with you some tips for how to buy the best Polymeric Sand Alternative without feeling overwhelmed. regular sand Dominator Polymeric Sand. The crushed rock ranges in size from dust particles up to 3/4 inch (19mm). Builder's Sand. Polymeric Jointing Sand is a polymeric-modified graded sand for filling joints up to 2 wide between interlocking pavers, brick, natural stone and concrete slaps. When this sand is wet, then it remains flexible. This product is recommended for residential projects such as pool decks, patios, and walkways. It’s pretty affordable, and you can find it almost everywhere. Contents. The downside of polymeric sand is the cost, but it does a much better job of keeping weeds out and while it does need to be refreshed periodically that is far less frequent than paver sand in my experience. A leader of innovation in the hardscape industry for more than 35 years, Techniseal introduced the very first polymeric sand for paver joints on the market in 1999. The advantage of polymeric sand is its binding properties, which is part of the whole 'interlocking' thing of pavers, and it's resistance to being washed away. Gator Maxx G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand (Beige) 50 Lb Bg with Home and Country USA Contractor Tips. . Clear-drying adhesive; 5. Polymeric sand is a product made from sand with an acrylic binder added. Our guide will help you make the best decision for your next project. Additionally, its power-driven rapid set technology helps reduce clutter. It can be easily used as a joint filler for brick pavers. The utilization of this sand, however, raises certain concerns. 97 $ 134. Polymeric sand cost anywhere between $20 to $40 per 50 lb bag, depending on the brand. Polymeric sand works best to fill gaps between 1/4 inch and 1. Exactly how fine stone dust is, however, depends on the exact stone dust you get, as some may be finer than others. There are alternative cleaning methods for pavers with polymeric sand that can be used instead of pressure washing. Polymeric sand in my filter. Plus, it’s fun to try new things! If you’re like me, then you’ll love reading this post. Back to Sand. Fast-setting, water resistant 90-minutes after installation. 1. 3. The best jointing product for any installation: concrete & clay. Concrete dust is a byproduct of concrete mixing. If you’re installing a paver patio, you might wonder about the best options or joint materials for filling your paver joints. for joints 1/4 In. Once opened and exposed to the elements, it should be used within one year. 4. However, not everyone wants to use polymeric sand, and many homeowners opt for an alternative. Specializing in the restoration of Interlock Paving Stones. Paint 2 coats of paver sealant over entire patio. Deck paint would cetainly seal it. Check Price on Amazon. First, you can use regular sand as a bedding material to level the pavers. Tip. Natural stone pavers and manmade alternatives give a beautiful appearance to pathways, patios, and gardens and come in an array of colors and sizes. Product Type: Paving Sand Product Name: Pavermate Z3 Polymeric Sand Product Form: Solid/Powder Intended Use of Product: Joint sand for use between pavers Section 2: Hazard Identification The most immediate and likely hazards are irritation from dust in. Gray Polymeric Sand. Optimal performances in high-humidity environments, heavy vehicular trafic areas and steeper terrain. As a kind of chemical sand-fixing agent, polymer sand-fixing agents, as a potential alternative of chemical sand-fixers, are widely used in desertification control due to its good adhesion and film-forming ability [3,4,5]. Please feel free to call us at. 2. DOMINATOR POLYMERIC SAND is the first joint stabilizing sand with our CERAMIC-FLEX technology, allowing flexibility, durability and powerful bonding strength. Minimum width between pavers: 1/4 in. As stated by Today's Homeowner (2008), filling the joints between patio pavers can be done by using a pressure washer set to medium range (1600 to 2000 PSI) and hot water for even better. To start the curing process, initially water is needed but later on its presence is harmful for the polymeric sand. Builder’s sand is quite coarse in nature and has been applied to paver joints for years. Builder’s sand; 3. Provides the finishing touch for a quality installation. Then you'll need to get all the excess off the surface of the pavers before you water the sand to set it. This type of sand is designed to resist erosion and retain its original shape. 97 Concrete Dust. Garden hose. 1. The polymeric sand stands up better to point loads within the joints and resists “washout,” when compared to traditional sand swept joints. 22. Redoing the whole backyard (24' x 16', small rowhouse backyard) - leveled sand, Brock PaverBase panels, and then 24" square porcelain pavers with 1/4" gap. It is swept into the gaps between the pavers, which are then compacted to ensure the sand is distributed easily. In order to ensure the creation of a less permeable, compact, and unwashable sand layer, the material is created in such a way it hardens when wet for the first time. Coarse sand is cheaper than sandboxes’ fine sand, making it an affordable and practical choice. We prefer cement because it is sturdy, and can repair cracks and fill joints. Polymeric Sand. A leaf blower on a very low setting is a good way to do this. Suitable for sweeping into spaces between pavers. Lock paver and slab products firmly into place. The publication explains that, when dry, polymeric sand is fine and powdery. At first the paver sand looked great in those cracks…. Polymeric sand is not measured by strength; there is no accepted industry test method to test for the strength and durability of polymeric sand. Water the sand according to the directions. This type of sand was developed specifically to be used with paver joints to ensure everything can be held in place. 97. Estimated Cost: $40 to $60. This will create a kind of “rail” system in which you will be able to move the 2×4. After all, polymeric sand as a paver base has a huge cost-benefit behind it, hence its high demand on the market. 10 Pound Titanium Gray DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand with Revolutionary Ceramic Flex Technology for Stabilizing Paver Joints/Gaps, 1/8” up to 4”, Professional Grade Results. I just plan to buy a rool of that 1/2" x 4 inch white foam and cut it down to 2" and stuff it into the joint, its 1/4" - 3/8" wide and 2 3/8. Jointing sand is made up of fine grains, to which manufacturers add a mixture of specific additive particles. Ft. Polymeric sand can be used for various projects, but it is mainly required for compacting pavers and keeping them in place. Patios & Walkways; Driveways; Pools & spas; Outdoor kitchens & fireplaces; Retaining walls; Steps; Flower beds; Permeable; Rooftop terraces;. 14. Also, do not try to fill up the joint partially with a less expensive material and then topping it off with polymeric sand to save a dollar. For every two 60- or 80-pound bags of dry concrete mix, blend one ten-ounce bottle of liquid cement color with five quarts of clean water. It provides drainage, wont eat away at the pavers, and it compacts well. A plate surface of 22. There are several important reasons. Before settling on stone dust, just be aware that you may face shifting or other issues caused by the material’s. When you wet polymeric sand, polymers are activated. Model # 40100398 Item # 134783 UPC 00742786915221. Now this is no ordinary sand, but polymeric sand, i. But this can make up for the costly replacement as it lasts for a decade. Paver Set sand is a mixture of sand and special additives that hardens with moisture for paving stone joints. Repeat until you fill all of the paver gaps. See moreBuilder’s Sand. 9. Usually applied about 1/8 to 1/4 inch above paver surface. Alternatives to polymeric sand, such as regular sand or stone dust, are available. This makes polymeric sand more durable and longer lasting than some alternatives. The Flexlock Ultra G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand formula offers a hassle-free application that’s simple enough for even inexperienced DIYers. 97. Second generation/high-performance polymeric sands (see Figure 1) provide even superior performance and. Polymeric sand is a fine sand that is combined with additives that form a binding agent when exposed to water. Deters ants and other insects. Besides that, its versatility, low dry time, and durability make it a very attractive option. In conclusion, there are several alternatives to polymeric sand that you can use between pavers. For a more permanent fix, use asphalt patching material with the sand to fill the cracks. Density : 2. This will also help keep the sand in place, although it won’t provide the same. The polymer modified sand hardens as it dries. However, once water is applied, any remaining polymeric sand particles will harden and remain on the surface resulting in an unhappy customer. It is more expensive than regular dry joint sand but not as pricey as joint compound. The gap between pavers will be about 1/8". Allows for cleaner, easier and quicker jobs thanks to the Nextgel technology. However, as soon as it gets wet the additives. Shower your pavers to seal and harden the sand. # Preview Product; 1:However, you could use polymeric sand. Because they easily follow soil movement. Polymeric sand was first introduced to the hardscaping industry about a dozen years ago, and we at Stonehenge started using it as soon as it was available in this market. Builder’s Sand This is the most common polymeric sand replacement for many because of its easy accessibility. I found this Dominator Polymeric sand at Amazon, it had good reviews, and said it could be used for 1/8 gaps. It is swept into the gaps between the. Filling gaps between pavers to stabilize and prevent weeds. The polymeric sand alternatives we have reviewed in this article are able to handle the versatility of multiple projects while still offering premium quality. Concrete Alternatives & Sand + 1 more EZ Sand Techniseal 40 Lb. Alternative jointing sands (clockwise from top left) include C144 mason sand, white bar sand, grey polymeric sand and beige polymeric sand. 9 KG bags. 5 inches needed. EZ Sand Gray Polymeric Sand. Polymeric Sand. If a polymeric sand is too hard, it can also make it too brittle, causing cracking from ground movement. You’ll have to spread the paver leveling sand on top and around the pipes and screed it with the 2×4. What is the best material to put between flagstone?Here are five types of materials to use when filling gaps between flagstones:Sand. Polymeric sand can cost anywhere from $20 to $90 per 50-pound bag. Among the beautiful, natural options for walkway stones sourced directly…When installing polymeric sand for your concrete porch overlay, you will want to ensure that you are using a polymeric sand that is specified for overlays. . On the other hand, regular sand is often used to create a base for pavers due to its easy distribution and low. View on Amazon View on Walmart. Extend your season and get your jobs done this year! Don't worry about drying out your pavers to start filling. Bad Weather Conditions. For professional pavers and hard landscapers, this is a revolutionary jointing sand that is an incredible alternative to polymeric sand. My question, concern is using polymeric sand on my total patio where only 1/3 to 1/2 will have the pavers taken up to then allow the 1 to 1. It is the most long-lasting substitute as it doesn’t erode easily. However, you should think carefully about the long-term benefits; polymeric sand may cost more initially but add up. Technical details. Jointing compounds are more expensive. Understanding Polymeric Sand. Step 3. Answer: Paving sand is the name given to sand used for paving, which is indicated in the name of the item. 3. The vibration also compacts the sand grains together with fine dust between which further locks them. Their rapid set technology is an advanced paver sand polymeric solution that is rainfast in 15 minutes during traditional applications. Free estimates &. The reduction in water absorption for the composite having 50 wt% of high-density polyethylene and 50 wt% of sand as the specimen S2 compared to the composite with 50 wt% low-density polyethylene. One major factor to consider before choosing the sand for your paver is its binding power. Proprietary polymer/organic. To remove polymeric sand from pavers, start by using a leaf blower to remove loose debris. Optional: vibratory tamper. WELCOME TO PATRICK BUILDING SUPPLY! WE ARE NOW CARRYING AMMUNITION !!! Customer Service. This is your ultimate guide to buying the Best Polymeric Sand Alternative. First and foremost, to get a great result the pavers need to be dry. Specifications. Alternatives to polymeric sand, such as regular sand or stone dust, are available. PATRICK BUILDING SUPPLY LLC 20541 Jeb Stuart Hwy 659 Stuart, VA. However, if there is excess water, it can prevent the sand from hardening. 10 Pound Gray Beige DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand with Revolutionary Ceramic Flex Technology for Stabilizing Paver Joints/Gaps, 1/8” up to 4”, Professional Grade Results. 2. The sand used as a base should be simply spread and leveled with the help of a 2×4 and two 1″ pipes. Alternative Landscaping; Porcelain Tiles; Polymeric Sand; col2. Joint-It Simple Dark Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Dark Grey. Ivory. This type of sand was developed specifically to be used with paver joints to ensure everything can be held in place. Benefits from the Nextgel technology for cleaner application and faster wetting. 7 out of 5 stars 24. Though a very common filler, bear in mind that if you use sand for flagstone patio filler you will need to refill it from time to time as the sand will erode. ” #4. Irregular grain sizes with sharp edges bind together better and compact. 5” wide. 7 – 14 Bags. Repeat these steps until the joints are full to 1/8″ below the top of the paver or bottom of the chamfer of. Our HP Nextgel Polymeric Jointing Sand offers unsurpassed joint stabilization, even in high humidity areas, sloping terrain, and high vehicular traffic regions. Polymeric sand is a better solution to the problem. It was raining on our project today and we were in the final wrap up stage of installing the jointing compound on this one. Tap to view. Along with polymeric sand, there are countless other sands that one can use for paving, which you will find in the previous section, “Alternatives for polymeric sand. Engineered to resist wind, rain, freezing conditions, and substrate movement without washing away. Aim for a polymeric sand color that seamlessly integrates with the natural hues of your pavers, ensuring a unified and balanced look across your outdoor space. Open the container, rip the bag open, and pour it onto the paving surface. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. Coverage varies with the. This Buddingco polymeric sand in beige is a unique blend of calibrated sand and polymer binders and comes in an 18lb pack. voluntarily phased out these chemicals. 1. In this article, we will explore why this product is an excellent and durable investment, discussing alternative materials and providing a step-by-step guide on how to properly lay polymeric sand as a paver base by yourself. Check the weather, you will need two days of sun and dry weather. Unlike polymeric sand which consists mainly of sand and binders, mortar consists mainly of cement, lime, and sand. This sand is commonly known as joint sand or leveling sand too. Model # 70970567 Store SKU # 1000786061. The key difference between dust and sand is the size of the joints between your stones. Polymeric sand is added after the pavers are installed to finish the project. #3 · May 25, 2018. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Joint-It Simple Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Grey at Amazon. In fact, you shouldn’t even think about it. Usage. If applied properly, the binding agent in the sand will harden in the joints and completely prevent weeds and ants from causing cracks in the surface. Cement; 2. When comparing stone dust vs sand, this sand is definitely an acceptable material to use under pavers. Leiden Cambridge Blend. The sand remains hard when dry and flexible when wet. The first of the linked sub-pages in this section considers the use of Modified Mortars and of polymeric sand , which is best thought of as a special sand that is chemically. Joint-It Simple Dark Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Dark Grey. It may be composed of limestone, granite or other rock, depending on your location and local building supplies. The most obvious inherent problems of polymeric sand relate to when and how it is used. This sealer serves as a convenient one. It can be a difficult choice between a traditional option and a newer alternative, but we think polymeric sand can outlast and outperform the usual jointing sand. Be wise and do the same! 6. As for the cost, it is really inexpensive, yes the bag may be $20 bucks or whatever, but you use very little of it to fill the gaps. ft. ). That is, quite literally, a huge load off your back. The commercially available silica sand having a grain size of 150 µm is taken as filler material. 1. Installation: • Using a broom, sweep Polymeric Jointing Sand into the paver joints, filling up to the paver chamfers (shoulders). It is vital to ensure that the weather isn’t going to count against you when you use polymeric sand for any project. Blocks weed growth and resists insect penetration in joints. Despite being a good material for indoor paving projects, there are better alternatives to grout when it comes to outdoor flooring. There are a few alternatives to polymeric sand that can be used for paver installation. There are basically three different options of joint sand that most paver installers offer to their customers. Coverage varies with the depth and size of the pavers. Coverage: 40 Lb. Sweep a broom across the pavers at a 45 degree angle to fill joints. While it’s cheaper than polymeric sand, it isn’t as durable and tends to clump if not mixed well when added to the masonry mix. What is the best mortar for flagstone?In flagstone patio projects, we use a Can you mortar dry laid flagstone?Flagstone is a unique paving surface that adds a natural look to any patio or walkway. Before you switch to a polymeric sand alternative you should know the pros and cons of each. It has been developed to provide an alternative to traditional jointing materials, such as lime mortar and cements. Remove excess residue with a leaf blower. The polymeric sand will harden and set firm to a degree once it is exposed to moisture. It is sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand or hardscape sand. I had interlock installed beside my pool, and while I was cleaning it the other day a good deal of the sand got in the pool. Landscaping by Space. . Unfortunately I ran my navigator without thinking and I assume sand got into the filter. However, adding polymeric sand to pea gravel can help keep the gravel in place. Use a broom to fill gaps. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. These are meant to cost effective alternative to the activated samples. Download. Once cured, polymeric sand will create a strong and durable bond between pavers, reducing the risk of weeds and insect infestation. for joints 1/4 In. For most projects with a joint of 1 inch or less, such as square or geometric stone pavers, Eurostone polymeric sand is a great option. This high-quality polymeric sand is generally the best sand for pavers among the masses. Late last summer, I tackled a couple of outdoor DIY projects using some new-to-me products – mulch glue and polymeric sand. 7 Results Found. Stone dust provides a great finish to the pavers, which leaves a smooth surface. This particular polymeric sand failure sees a shady area not allowing the polymeric sand t. Polymeric sand is a blend of refined grains and a binding agent that, when combined with a little amount of water, sets to create a strong sealant everywhere in the paver joints. Most 24” sand filters need 250-300 pounds of sand. Weed Resistance. Install the. Polymeric Sand Concentrate,20 lbs-Polymers and. Fill The Gaps. Base Sand (#1150-50) to provide proper drainage characteristics. Polymeric sand works best when it fills the entire joint between pavers and when joints are between ¼” and 1. Use a pressure washer to wash away the polymeric sand residue. $134. View Full Product Details. With Techniseal’s industry-leading. NABORS HOME CENTER 910 Highway 278 East Amory, MS 38821 US. This is a specific brand of sand that features natural and organic adhesives and binders. Self-expanding foam. 4 out of 5 stars 8. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Joint-It Simple Grey – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Grey at Amazon. Despite the poor reviews below, I needed something and this was no more expensive than just regular sand. hardscape History of Paver SandEstimated Cost: $40 to $60 Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. Both sand, and polymeric sand (in case you’re looking for the best option), will outperform grout. If using polymeric sand, a tighter seam must be maintained: 1/4-inch to 1-1/2-inch. Stone and Brick 2023. Well, it’s fairly easy, but you have to be careful–the sand is mixed with a binder. “test area” because it may stain the flagstones too. We like to use a mixture of the shower and horizontal setting on the hose nozzle to move the jointing compound around the paving surface. An alternative strategy utilises a pure kiln-dried sand, and is typically reserved for flexible block paving , small element paving and some decorative patio flags/slabs. . Pickup / Delivery. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Red Devil Asphalt Crack Filler Cartridge. Polymeric sand vs. Pros of polymeric sand. 65, respectively, at ambient conditions. An alternative method is to break one paver into pieces, then adjoining pavers can be. $134. EnviroSand, on the other hand, is water permeable, so water can flow away. The technology to crush glass into a material equivalent to sand does exist and is already in use, for example as an alternative to sand for pool filters. . Sand is ultimately a much safer option than stone dust for paving projects. This will create a perfectly 1″ layer of sand. Ideal for joints up to 4mm in width. Once polymeric sand or paver sand are applied and set (in the case of polymeric sand), it’s hard to tell the difference without a closer look. Polymeric sand was first introduced to the hardscaping industry about a dozen years ago, and we at Stonehenge started using it as soon as it was available in this market. Polymeric Sand Benefits By solidifying and bonding to the surround pavers, it provides an extra line of strength to keep the pavers together and to help prevent shifting. That process will give you the best long term patio. 2 posts · Joined 2018. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Joint-It Simple Neutral – Better Polymeric Sand Alternative, Haze-Free Patio Jointing Sand for Flagstones and Pavers, Wet Application Paver Joint Sand 44lbs, Neutral at Amazon. Polymeric sand is just like any other sand, except that it's been impregnated with a chemical binder that hardens the sand. Joint Width Range. It’s highly durable and will resist erosion, which is essential underneath and between paving stones. Ideal for paving areas with high traffic movement or areas prone to high winds. Polymeric sand is a handy ingredient that acts as a cement-like material to keep the pavers in place. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. For best appearance and optimal performance,, keep jointing materials. Unlike most other polymeric sand formulas on the market, Flexlock Ultra G2 Sand requires just one watering to fully activate. $32. 1. You can find it anywhere, costing $5 to $20 per 50-pound bag. Washed Concrete Sand - This is the. Best 9 Polymeric Sand's Alternatives. Always delivering constant durable results. Rated 4 out of 5 by DIY dad from Good quality and easy to use I built a raised patio recently and this was the only polymeric sand I could find to fill the 1/4" cracks between my pavers and retaining wall blocks. Should I use polymeric sand or regular sand? Polymeric sand is the more reliable and durable option for filling in the paver gaps. To lock the pavers in place, you can use a sealer or glue. 72%. . Wider joints will require more time to harden. Polymeric sand can be stored for a long time if stored correctly. Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. Before you switch to a polymeric sand alternative you should know the pros and cons of each. This process may be. Fasten screws on all sides.