Backed by a 15-year limited warranty. Thus, when you wet up polymeric sand for the first time, these polymers are activated, forming a hardened alloy that doesn’t wash away as easily as regular. Put a layer of paver sand between the gaps and run the compactor directly on top of it. Polymeric Sand is a mix of sand and specialized additives designed the fill the seals between concret pavers and brick pavers. Make sure your joints are dry. The pavers must be cleaned again before sealant can be applied. Silica sand consists mainly of silica, quartz, clay, dust, and other such substances. Thank you! I love my lawn. So, when it rains, instead of the sand washing out of the joints, the. Finally, use a hose to wet the sand and allow it to harden. makes the pavers move less under your feet. Keeps the paver gaps tightly filled#2. After you’ve dug your pathway and laid down a bed of gravel or crushed rock, you’ll cover the whole path with a layer of sand. regular sand LANDSCAPING Variety of applications - Pavers, Flagstone,Natural stone, ConcreteNevertheless, while polymeric sand remains exceptional, alternative types of sand can also be applied depending on the specific project requirements. When this sand is wet, then it remains flexible. Although polymeric sand is very durable, mortar is simply more so. Spontaneous323 • 3 yr. This will create a kind of “rail” system in which you will be able to move the 2×4. This can help maintain the integrity of the paver installation over time. Is polymeric sand better than regular sand? Polymeric sand is also superior to normal sand aside from aesthetics is its longevity. Polymeric sand is usually good for about ten years, so re-sanding costs are saved when using this type of sand. Choosing an correct type of sand is essential to seal to pavers both ensure that they become laid firm how that the structure latches lengthier. We'll also provide some tips on how to choose the right polymer sand for. After investing in a new paver patio or driveway we recommend joint stabilizing silica sand and sealer. My 10 year old daughter can install it flawlessly, so I'm pretty sure you could. (a)polymeric sand, it appears that sand is designed for this purpose, but many in the web said this doesn't actually work. Designed for joints up to 1/2 in. While the lifespan of any surface or paver joint can vary based on the climate and product type, polymeric sand usually lasts for 10 years. Polymeric sand is a specialized construction material typically used for landscaping projects like sealing pavers and driveways. Jointing sand is made up of fine grains, to which manufacturers add a mixture of specific additive particles. Silica is such as an additive and is often used to help lock the fine sand particles together. There are paver sealers which really renew dull pavers. depend on the shape and size of the pavers or slabs, and on the width and depth of joints. What is Regular Sand? Polymeric sand is not used in all hardscaping projects. Regular paver sand may not include fancy bonding agents. It is more expensive than regular dry joint sand but not as pricey as joint compound. Election the valid class of solid is essential to lead aforementioned pavers and ensure that. Polymeric Sand or paver sand as it is sometimes called is a very fine grain sand that is combined with additives and, when mixed with water, forms a strong bond. Primary Menu. Simply sweep the sand into the joints and saturate with a water mist. CasaScapes 35-lb Gray Paver Polymeric Sand. Launched in the early 2000s, polymeric sand is a material that is manufactured specifically for jointing paving slabs and brick pavers. There's silica sand and a polymeric sand. How to Use Polymeric Sand in 10 Easy Steps. Best Polymeric Sand for Pavers and Stone Joints 4. In order to implement the goal, we recommend you use a non-selective herbicide. Polymeric sand can be stored for a long time if stored correctly. Step 4: Get the Required Tools. 2. That includes mold, mildew, weeds, and even insects. 5 ft = 161. DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand - Best for Professional Use. What I have seen is. For this example, lets assume that you want a thickness or depth of 1-inch. The heat will reactivate the polymers in the product and allow you to strip away the sand. : 2: Choose. If you have access to a compacting machine, that will make. Polymeric. 2. Sunniland. This term “polymeric sand” kann sound like some arrange of high-tech, futuristic product, but there’s a good chance you’ve encountered it somewhere along to line. Water the sand according to the directions. Types of Paver Sand: There are different types of paver sand available in the market, including polymeric sand and regular jointing sand. Polymeric Sand vs Regular Sand for Pavers. We prefer joint stabilizing paver sealer over Polymeric sand for several reasons. When proper preparation is accepted (such as weed killer, insect repellant/removal), this polymeric jointing sandy has the potential to reduce weed growth, withstand rain. One of the biggest differences here is going to be with the application process. Roll your bag of preferred sand. Water Permeability. Benefits of Regular Sand. Power Flex technology creates a stable, superior bond between paver joints and prevents shifting and erosion, ensuring sturdy outdoor surfaces. Polymeric sand has come a long way since its inception in the early 2000s and is a quality product for a jointing compound these days. POLYBIND SAND G2 level, must be at least 1/8″ (3 mm) below top of paver’s surface or 1/8″ (3 mm) below the chamfer or erosion may occur. Paver sand is the type of sand you prefer to use. Once the joints are filled and the excess sand is swept away, wet the pavers with the help of a hose on a shower setting. Polymeric sand outperforms regular sand in terms of stability, durability, and weed control. Polymeric sand is a precise mixture of natural Sand and polymer binders. Bought a house that already had pavers on the driveway. It offers a clean, dust-free installation and activates with one watering. This process may be repeated to ensure complete coverage. 7) If it rains a lot, the polymer leaches out in a year or two, and you are left with "regular sand" except it sticks to the pavers and if you need to re-do the joints its going to be a royal pain whereas with regular sand, no problem. Polymeric sand also withstands. Regular sand is not permanent and is easy to remove if there is a need to adjust pavers. Sand and decomposed granite have a similar texture, but their composition is. Activate With Water. 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. Maximum width between pavers: 1 in. My understanding is they are so close that you let the cost determine what you use. Specifications. Polymeric sand was invented by Techniseal in 1999, and it has improved the installation. 5 inches wide, suits appropriately for polymeric sand. Our Gator Maxx sand is recommended for overlay and non-overlay applications that have up to a maximum of 2” joints. Silica is an additive, in the sand that is often used to help lock the fine sand particles together. Techniseal. While the lifespan of any surface or paver joint can vary based on the climate and product type, polymeric sand usually lasts for 10 years. Find and save ideas about paver sand on Pinterest. Whether using concrete or polymeric sand, fill the gaps evenly up to the level of the pavers using a push-broom. But the fact of the matter is - in about 14 months it wont matter - 1) the color will wash out from the sun. Coated with a water-activated polymer, polymeric sand bonds together when exposed to moisture, keeping the sand from washing away or blowing out of the joints. Use for installing new pavers and replacing existing joints. 1. The price: Polymeric sand is more expensive than regular sand. Neither rain nor wind can wash away paving sand on a flat surface. But the lack of binders in the sand would allow washout and cause weeds, grass and ant hills to form. Polymeric sand is simply a granular sand material that is placed within the cracks and joints between stone pavers as a means of interlocking the units and preserving the beauty and integrity of the pavers. It took the already low-maintenance brick paver patios we were installing down to nearly zero maintenance. Smooth Seal Grey: Haze-Free Joint Sand. 5. This can be helpful in situations where regular sand would otherwise wash away, such as in between pavers or stones. The main difference between the two is how they are used. Yield: 10 x 10 surface; Skill Level: Beginner; Estimated Cost: $40 to $60; Polymeric sand often comes into play at the end of a landscape paving project, including projects involving concrete pavers, brick pavers, and stone pavers. Polymeric sand is a material used to fill paver joints, the empty spaces found between each paver, tile or natural stone. 2. . The silica is a binding agent that helps to hold the sand in place. Gator Maxx Bond Polymeric Sand, 50 lb. 2) It'll be covered in a layer of dirt. Applying polymeric sand a second time over an existing layer is generally not recommended and may not produce the desired results. Many installers cut corners to speed up paving processes. Issues One of the most common sand-related problems is haze. Choosing the correct type of sand the essential to seal the pavers furthermore provide that they are laid firmly so such the structure lasts longer. regular sand LANDSCAPING Variety of applications - Pavers, Flagstone,Natural stone, ConcreteFirst, it is readily available and easy to find in most places. Enviromom writes that, unlike other filling products, polymeric sand is a human-made product and is a combination of fine sand particles and binding agents such as silica. Step 1: Check the Weather. Yet another popular substitute for polymeric sand is a joint stabilizing sealer. Difference #2: Gator Nitro offers top-to-bottom strength. At the end of the installation, once all pavers are set, you pour the polymeric sand on the grout lines of the pavers, sweeping the sand around with a broom until all the joint are filled. This may be to save time or to cut costs, sometimes both. The binding agents in polymeric sand help lock pavers together and keep them together for a longer stretch of time. Polymeric sand is a specialized construction material typically used for landscaping projects like sealing pavers and driveways. 3. That process will give you the best long term patio. 5-cu ft Brown Leveling Paver Sand. Polymeric sand is very versatile but doesn't work very well in super moist or cold conditions below a certain temp. If you only have a crust, you don't have a proper bond in the joints. It outperforms regular sand when a homeowner is looking to lock the paver joints properly and wants a steady and. Fill the crack with the sand, tamping it down firmly as you go. 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. Spread polymeric sand in sections. For me both tend to grow grass because our horses kick up a lot. By doing this, this sand prevents water from slipping in through the joints and weakening the base. Wet polymeric sand would be much harder to get off the surface, so ensure the floor is completely dry. You can rely on our latest innovation to improve on-site air quality with an engineered. The polymer modified sand hardens as it dries. Poured it into crevasses and pushed it down tight, then lightly sprinkle with water hose. Two of the most commonly used sealants for pavers include polymeric sand and Easy Joint. 9% weed free. Sandy is a critical component till creates inviting and durable walkways and paver patios. This will justify the reason behind choosing it for this purpose for sure. It lasts longer while keeping the paver boundRegular Sand Use. Polymeric sand is sand that has an adhesive in it. This is a specific gradation of fractured angular sand. We recommend filling/compacting the paver joints until the sand reaches ⅛” below the edge or chamfer of the paver. . The ICPI endorses the use of polymeric sand. That item “polymeric sand” might sound like some sort by high-tech, futuristic product, but there’s a well chance you’ve confronted it somewhere along which line. Sand is an critical component to generating inviting and durable walkways and paver dining. Buy On Amazon. I do not know of a sealer used in conjunction with regular sand that give the same results as polymeric. The sand should sit around 1/10th inch below the top of the paver or even with the lower edge of the bevel. Because of the polymer, the sand mixture has a tendency to stain in the same way that regular mortar stains brick. Each of them is a handyman and off-road adventurers. 5-pound bucket. Putting it very simply, polymeric sand prevents the growth of any biological life amongst the grout lines of pavers. I've seen a popular YouTuber state that his company (operating in the northern US) doesn't use polymeric sand and instead fills paver joints with regular sand, which may require some yearly maintenance. If it isn’t applied correctly, things like a pressure washer will cause more harm than good. • Polymeric sand must be installed from the top of the upper layer of the drainage base to a height of 1/8” from the top of the paver or stone substrate. Curing is the final process while installing pavers with polymeric sand. Both polymeric and regular sand are types of sand that are used in the construction industry. Add the paver base, rake smooth, sprinkle with water and compact it firmly. My understanding is that it is best to clear the joints out completely, then reapply the polymeric sand. Homeowners don’t need to replace polymeric sand continuously. It is a budget-friendly polymeric sand for installations carried out in light-duty environments. 5 ft2. Both are going to cost the same price for installation, so it’s simply a preference. Most sands require enough water to saturate the sand just until the water stops soaking into the joint. color options. Polymeric sand is an essential in most modern paver patios. One alternative you have to polymeric sand is the good old-fashioned mortar. Regular sand used for filling paver joints are also known as joint sand or. Paver sand is much coarser than silica sand and is not made up of the same materials. Keep in mind that sand is only a temporary solution for repairing driveway cracks. Some still prefer regular sand, as they remain screed but not fixed. The solution lies with polymeric Sand which is used to fill the complete depth of the paver. Stone dust is a good alternative--it does not wash out or displace as easily as paver sand--costs less than polymeric but a bit more than sand. For any hardscaping project to bear fruit, it must last a long time. Simply sweep Quikrete 50 lb. It helps keep the pavers in place and prevents weeds and ant infestations. With the sand exactly where I wanted it, I grabbed the hose and set it to the “shower” mode. 5 ft2. What you want to use instead is polymer sand. The polymeric sand that I used recommends showering 30 square feet for 30 seconds, until the water starts to pool and the sand repels it. While you can use regular sand instead of polymeric sand for paver joints, it does not offer the same benefits. I haven't gotten a price yet on the techniseal, but the big box stores sell a $10, 30 square foot bag. This type of jointing sand is different from regular sand because it contains binders that help to hold everything together. On the other hand, polymeric sand can last for up to 10 or even 15 years before it needs to be replaced. Once you’ve spread the sand, use the tamper to make sure the sand is securely in place between the pavers. The thickness of the pavers is either 60mm, 80mm or 100mm depending on the use. PowerLoc Jointing Sand into the joints and mist with water; the product hardens, locking the pavers into place. 5. The most important kind of sand used in a paver installation. Dealing with different tools, automotive accessories, products. 5. These are just a few tips to keep in mind when sealing pavers with. FM20 sand is produced by crushing larger stone or gravel into finer particles. This term “polymeric sand” ability sonor please any sort of high-tech, futuristic product, but there’s a done chance you’ve encountered it somewhere along the line. Then, joint sand must be added to the areas between the pavers. Regular sand is much more likely to slowly trickle out of the joints, leaving your pavers looking sloppy. Polymeric sand is our preference but there's nothing wrong with using sand. Ceramic Flex Polymeric Sand for Perfect Patio Joints. It consists of regular fine sand particles, combined with silica and quartz, as. Cutting corners and not following the manufacturer’s instructions tops the list. While it lacks the binding properties of. the extra time it takes to drain doesn't warrant switching back to regular sand, and risking weed seed germinating into a nightmare. regular sand LANDSCAPING Variety of applications - Pavers, Flagstone,Natural stone, Concrete However, your polymeric sand will hold firmly as paver filler if you keep everything in place without damaging the bricks and stones. Pour 4 inches of gravel into the area, level with a rake, and compact using a temper. The silica is a binding agent that helps to hold the sand in place. While polymeric sand can provide some benefits, such as increased stability and weed. The heat will reactivate the polymers in the product and allow you to strip away the sand. When applied it dries firm yet flexible to restrict or resist growth of weeds, insect infestation and sand erosion due to rain, wind and frost. For more product information please call 215. Polymeric sand vs Paver sand. The hardened joints resisted weeds, ants couldn’t tear it up to. The result is a longer-lasting paver installation. Once opened and exposed to the elements, it should be used within one year. While polymeric sand will create a durable and reliable bond between pavers, regular sand is ideal for creating a stable and level base. You're still gonna need a regular maintenance program or some type of treatment to repel those weeds. As these particles combine, the joints between patio pavers becomes impenetrable. Unlike regular sand, polymeric sand will not be washed away by heavy rain . No, you cannot use all purpose sand for pavers. Extend your season and get your jobs done this year! Don't worry about drying out your pavers to start filling. There are a couple of drawbacks to polymeric sand. Polymeric sand. Without using the knife, you are very likely to get frustrated while opening the waterproof bag. They’re Fine. The easy-to-find, most affordable sand is regular dry sand. Regular sand is more appropriately used for leveling the paver. Different brands of polymeric sand available for cleaning patio pavers include Alliance Gator Super Sand, Sakrete Paver Set, and Techniseal HP NextGel. 6. Eventually, the crust will break away, eroding the joint. Polymeric and regular sand are two types. Third, level the gaps so it is one surface instead of two uneven surfaces which will cause problems when applying concrete glue to hold everything together securely. This creates a stable surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic and various weather conditions. Deters ants and other insects. It is specially designed to be applied in the joints of pavers. If your only priority is to harden the sand in the joint of your pavers to prevent sand loss and weed growth, polymeric sand may be the better option. As easy to install as regular sand, almost. EZ Sand 40 lbs. Then I carefully followed instructions on the polymeric sand. 2. This gel effect helps keep the sand particles in place and resist washing out. e. Allows for cleaner, easier and quicker jobs thanks to the Nextgel technology. It’s a type of sand pre-owned to full in an joints between pavers, a product that’s created by mixing a fine sand with additives – usually silica – and water to form a binding agent. Check Price. Polymeric sand contains additives like quartz and silica, while regular sand doesn’t. Place a mat on the base of your compactor and layer sand between the paver gaps for maximum. Polymeric Grit vs. Joint-It Simple is an award-winning, polymeric sand alternative joint filler that is perfect for filling joints of pavers, flagstones, and slabs. 5) 4. ( 975) $35. 2. While a 50-pound bag of ordinary sand costs $2 to $4, its polymeric equivalent can range from $20 to $40. It can be easily used as a joint filler for brick pavers. It comes in a 44-pound bucket and is available in three different colors: Neutral, Grey, and Dark Grey. Regular paver sand may be sold as all-purpose sand or jointing sand. Polymeric sand is a weed. It’s a type a backbone spent to replenish in the joints amid pavers, a product that’s created by mixing ampere fine sand with additives – typically silica – and water into form. Put a layer of paver sand between the gaps and run the compactor directly on top of it. The term “polymeric sand” might sound how some sort of high-tech, totally consequence, but there’s a sound shot you’ve encountered information somewhere along the line. I'm about to power wash my paver patio as well and had the same exact question. Poly sand needs to go the full depth of the paver, or close to it. Sand is ampere critical component to creating inviting additionally durable walkways and paver patios. It can be used for both residential and commercial types of applications. Buy On Amazon. This special combination offers several advantages over ordinary sand, providing enhanced performance and longevity for your paver installation. Protect. Unlike polymeric sand which consists mainly of sand and binders, mortar consists mainly of cement, lime, and sand. That's important to know when you have pavers. regular sand for pavers. When pressure washing pavers with polymeric sand, choose the right pressure washer and nozzle for the job. , and paver depth of at least 1 in. This will lock the sand particles together helping secure pavers in a uniform and durable surface. Call (833) 627-4257 to schedule a quote for patio sanding. 3. Polymeric sand is fortified with polymer to prevent washout between pavers. It does not work as well if you fill the joints with regular sand and then put a shallow layer of poly on top. regular sand for pavers. Rain: Resists unforeseen rain 60 minutes after installation, requires 24 hours no rain. Resists erosion, weed growth and insects. A big benefit of Easy Joint is the fact that it is permeable. 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. I'm an old veteran paver guy. On the other hand, polymeric sand is man-made sand composed of. When these polymers are activated by water, they expand and join together to form a. The application of polymeric sand marks the final stage of any paving project. Protect from rain for at least 12 hours. Keep repeating this step as many times as necessary to get rid of excess polymeric sand. Below, find picks for the best polymeric sand in a range of categories. Use a blower to blast out the joints again. Ive got a 15x40 paver patio full of moss and weeds thats in dire need of a pressure washing. 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. . Cracks appear between the two. Here are ways you can protect your pavers from a plate compactor: Place a rubber mat on the plate of your plate compactor as a buffer for the paver. When mixed with water, it forms a strong binding agent that can be used to fill spaces between pavers, tiles, and more. Sweep at an angle (not with the joints). Application . Best Polymeric Sand Reviews For Pavers of 2023 (Top 3 Picks) Meet the Authors. Consider this my official mulch glue. A 50 lb bag of polymeric sand typically covers a total of about 75-80 square feet in aggregate. Ultimately, they both fill the gaps between the. In some applications where the joints between the pavers are rather large (1/4″ or larger) we suggest using the polymeric sand over the joint stabilizing paver sealer because the. A depth of 8 inches is suitable for 4 inches of gravel, 1 inch of paver sand, and pavers that are approximately 3 inches thick. Lay out the pavers first to determine the desired pattern, then. This angular material is designed to lock pavers into place. Pros of polymeric sand. Polymeric sand doesn’t hold in moisture, thus preventing the growth of mold and mildew. 9% weed free. First, use the utility knife to open the sandbag. This special polymeric sand will bind the sand particles together when reacted with water but will not cause a problem known as poly haze. Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. Epic Fail #1: Too much or too little watering. Bar Sand- Bar sand is finer than concrete or mason sand and is used for applications where softness is important, . Buy On Amazon Buy On Walmart. This can lead to sand replacement costs over time. Polymeric sand is simply sand blended with polymers that act as bonding agents. And although it is not completely waterproof, it can hold its structure by firming up when completely dry. This sand is also known as joint sand or leveling sand. 3. Step 7: Cover the Holes with a Broom and a Plate Compactor. When all joints are filled, remove excess sand on surface. Laying pavers can create a stunning outdoor area like a driveway, path or patio. That said, during application polymeric sand looks almost the same as normal sand (except that. Compacting the sand is an important step. Polymeric sand is a thin sand that when combined with additives and water forms a binding agent. This non-staining sand resists erosion, weed growth and insects. These heavy-duty materials can be used in between both pavers and slabs. Builder’s sand is the most common replacement for polymeric sand, and it is easy to access and affordable. Choose a color that will complement the color of your pavers. If you’ve done this before, you may have used polymeric sand. The filled and cured polymeric sand joints should never be in direct contact with foot traffic or tires. Hi guys new to the site but hello. Polymeric sand is made mainly out of sand, silica, quartz, and other materials, whereas mortar is made primarily out of cement, lime, and sand. CASASCAPES POLYMERIC SAND level, must be at least 1/8 inch (3 mm) below top of paver’s surface or up to the bottom of the chamfer or erosion may occur. Once it dries and hardens, the sand stays in. Updated on March 1, 2023. Polymeric sand is less prone to erosion caused by water or wind compared to regular jointing sand. When watered in and compacted, sand provides a sturdy filler, but it can still move to accommodate temperature changes and settling soil or gravel beneath the pavers. Blu 60 (3 size slab type paver) 90 sf/bag. Run a plate compactor and reapply. This works great for securing paver joints but it is not the same as regular sand. For more tips on laying pavers, check out our guide — How to Design and Build a Paver Patio. com. I'm in the last steps of installing pavers in my front yard. 3. 5. For even better performance, use a hot water pressure washer at 180 ° F. The term “polymeric sand” might sound like some sort of high-tech, futuristic product, but. Polymeric sand has come a long way since its inception in the early 2000s and is a quality product for a jointing compound these days. Listed below you will see major brands as: alliance, techo-bloc, gator, rain-guard-water-sealers, rhino, alliance-gator, buddingco, kawayy,. Regular and polymeric sand have their pros & cons. Re: polymeric sand vs regular sand for paver patio There is absolutely NO EXCUSE to use anything but polymeric sand in 2012. With polymeric sand, pavers won’t shift after pressure-washing the area. Regular Sand. Once this sand is in place, use a tamping tool to compact the sand into an even layer. The sand for pavers joints can be replaced by pouring polymeric sand over the existing patio pavers or driveway pavers. Do not apply when your pavers are damp or wet. Of course, the cheapest of the. But curing is a critical process that can directly impact the quality and durability of the pavers. Used for matching with specific designs#4. Polymeric sand is used in paver joints because it helps prevent most weeds and ants: Its bonded surface. Now, these two things are fairly similar, but there are some functional differences that you need to be aware of. It is a mix of sand and special additives and is usually made of quartz, granite, marble or other similar materials. The sand joint between pavers should be between 1/16 and 3/16 inch. Medium gravel is the most popular choice for a paver base. About; Sponsors; Help; Articles. Polymeric sand. Its organic binder, Organic-Lock, is water-permeable and forms a gel as it absorbs water during rainfall. Apply an even, 1-inch layer of sand on top of the compact gravel. Are you tired of hard-to-use sands that don't last and are hard to install?. Magic Sand/Paver Locking Sand is an advanced polymer modified binding joint sand used in paver and slab joint applications. Conclusion. Blu 60 (3 size slab type paver) 90 sf/bag. I have done several paver walks, I have used regular sand and polymeric sand. Joint Width: 1/16″ to 1″ at intersections. Then think about the desired thickness of the paver sand. Choosing the correct type of sand is essential to tape the pavers and ensure that they are laid firmly accordingly that the structure lasts longer. Be wise and do the same! 6. The filled and cured polymeric sand joints should never be in direct contact with foot traffic or tires. See morePolymeric sand outperforms regular sand in terms of stability, durability, and weed control. Project requirements: dominator XL works well in paver joint width 1/8 to 4 in. Polymeric sand. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. Poly is the best thing that ever happen to pavers, my biggest gripe about selling pavers to people are weeds grow in the joints, been using poly for 6 years with 99. #3. First, wet the area where the pavers will be installed. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. If you put a thin layer over regular sand, it will peel off.