Two types of paver. Techniseal recently came out with NOCO which does up to 4" joints and requires NO COmpaction. The stirrer should now be placed over the pit. You’ll need to dig down far enough to accommodate 3-4″ of packed gravel base, 1″ of leveling material, plus the thickness of the pavers. I hand tamped the paver base and don’t have easy access to a plate compactor. Never compact or activate polymeric sand with water until entire surface is clean and free of dust. If the pavers are damp the polymer will leave a stain on the pavers. Remember, you shouldn’t over-pour the sand initially. The difference being the function of them. Incorrect application of polymeric sand ruins the pavers. Step 3: create a layer of frost protection. 7 kg) of this product will cover between 20 to 30 square feet (1. Without that vibration sand/polymeric can bridge making it look like the cracks are full even though it is empty/hollow below the bridge. Once that level is compacted, add more material and repeat the process. One of the most critical steps in a polymeric sand installation is properly compacting the sand into the joints. The next step is to put the compactor into the freezer for a few minutes. I am installing concrete pavers on a 6" base of compacted gravel with 1-2inch sand on top. Horrible idea. How To Polymeric Sand A Patio (DIY) If you are a homeowner that wants to take on a paver project, check out this video to learn how to install polymeric sand in the joints of the concrete. Check Price. Drive a rebar into the sub-base with a mark after every inch. Gator Maxx G2 helps prevent weeds and damage caused by ants. Do this at a time when it won;t rain for at least 2 or 3 days Buy an appropriate amount of Polymeric Sand (get a bit more than you think you need) and rent a plate compactor from HD. You may need to cut the PVC pipes to fit curves in your layout. Next come the pavers themselves, followed by polymeric sand applied in the joints (empty spaces between the pavers). Polymeric sand is easy to install and requires no special tools or equipment. The material will settle when you hose it down, so repeat. 3A. ft per 50 lb bag. It was raining on our project today and we were in the final wrap up stage of installing the jointing compound on this one. Ad. How long does polymeric sand last? Polymeric sand can last up to 10 years before replacement is necessary. of centrifugal force. Application Step 3. Sweep overlay polymeric sand in the joints (install polymeric sand per manufacturer’s instructions, which are located on the back of the bag). My bad for not realizing it's polymeric sand. Bend the “wings” of the workpiece and install the bar in the “shoe”. Remove the sand base sand that's there now (compact also) 2. Others just run the compactor directly over top with a layer of paver sand between. If this is not practical use a broom handle to tap on. Lay the Flagstones. Proper use of polymeric sand is an important component to installing a paving stone patio, driveway, walkway, entrance, or any other paving stone project. Polymeric sand can also be used for this process and is generally worth the cost upgrade. 2. For Concrete Pavers: Run vibratory compactor over Rthe pavement to allow the vibrations to shift sand particles into the joints and. With this, you can make sure that your polymeric sand installation will go as smoothly as possible. 2. If compactor is not rubber-plated, cover pavers with a woven fabric while compacting to help protect paver surface from damage. The vibration also compacts the sand grains together with fine dust between which further locks them. I am setting the pavers over uncompacted sand about 1/2 inch above the sidewalk and will use a plate compactor to settle them (i hope) down to the. This product is ideal for filling joints between pavers and natural stones up to 4 inches. This product is ideal for paver joints of up to a maximum of 2". Use a plate compactor to vibrate the sand down into the joints. Not compacting the base. • Temperature must be above 32°F (0°C) for 48 hours following installation. Polymeric sand is a semi-permeable sand that contains additives and binding agents to lock paver joints into place. . It has exceptional joint stabilizing properties, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as patios, pool decks, pavements, parking lots, and driveways. After filling the joints between the pavers with polymeric sand, compact the whole thing one more time and wet the area to activate the sand. Vibratory Plate Compactor 14". This type of sand often comes into play at the end of a landscape paving. Polymeric sand was invented by Techniseal in 1999, and it has improved the. Sprinkle a uniform layer of Gator Maxx g2 polymeric sand evenly over the surface of the project area. You always want to work in small sections. Afterwards, you can spread the polymeric sand on your installation, making sure to sweep the sand around to fill every joint between the pavers. Step 4: Build the base course. Installation Conditions: Bedding must be made of dense graded sand. When used correctly, paver sand will help to extend the lifespan of your pavers and prevent cracking or sinking. Compact the pavers using a plate compactor and a protective pad or a paver roller compactor. Joints sand level, must be at least 1/8″ (3 mm) below top of paver’s surface or 1/8″ (3 mm) below the chamfer. Rain means that we cannot install. 1. Installation Conditions: Bedding must be made of dense graded sand. After the sand is spread, use a plate compactor to gently compact the pavers. You can also use cement as an alternative, but it is. Make sure that the pavers are dry and that the forecast is sunny before continuing on. After our first 4″ lift, we will install a biaxial geogrid to add extra support to our open-graded base. Easy step by step application of polymeric sand for your pavers so you end up with a beautiful professional looking finish on your pavers! (Product. A roller compactor is best for slab installation. Do not use a plate compactor on the pavers. It is different than regular sand, because regular sand not only is it missing the additives that help lock pavers in place, but it can also easily be. First of all, the goal is completely different. To ensure that the dry Paver Set fills the entire joint it is necessary to compact the material before wetting. Hardscaping Jointing CompoundsThis post may contain affiliate links. Pavers must have a strong base, a flat bedding, an edge restraint, and a sealing. The recommendation for over preparation is that the base material should extend past the paved edge an equal distance of the base depth. Regular sand can wash away after a heavy rainstorm. Wait 24 hours after rain. Gator Maxx G2 helps prevent weeds and damage caused by ants. 86 to 2. It is important to dampen the sand thoroughly for it to settle and properly harden between the jointed pavers. From planning the layout, to choosing the right pavers, bedding, and sealing. Step 2: prepare the substrate. It is best toPolymeric sand usually lasts three to five years but can last up to 10 years if appropriately applied. Apply a uniform coating of polymer sand over the. The vibration of a compactor is vital to settling sand or polymeric sand into the joints between pavers. A polymeric sand installation requires the use of a controlled and methodical watering technique. The sand gets swept around the pavers and a rubber mallet is used rather than a plate compactor with a pad or a roller compactor to consolidate the sand to the bottom of the joint. Without that vibration sand/polymeric can bridge making it look like the cracks are full even though it is empty/hollow below the bridge. Ceramic Flex Polymeric Sand for Perfect Patio Joints. Step 2: prepare the substrate. The video I'm watching suggested to use polymeric sand between the bricks. Screed over the entire base of the patio and fill in any low spots and shave down high spots until the base is even. . Over-Watering And Under-WateringTo use vinegar to remove polymeric sand haze, mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a bucket. Rake out the sand over the base until it’s roughly even. Step 2 Vibrate the SUPERSAND G2into the paver joints using a vibratory plate compactor. Problems during the curing process can decrease its lifespan. , installed over 1 inch (25 mm) of bedding sand, which will allow proper drainage and a successful polymeric sand installation. Ideally, lay them in a Polymeric joint sand will essentially harden like concrete between your paving stones so it is PERMANENT. This paper provides a review of the research on use of polymers for soil stabilization in pavement and geotechnical engineering. Builder’s Sand. Don’t use too little water. There should be two inches between the top of the sand and the top of the patio edging. • Can be used with a hard base or a cement/sand base. Installation Instructions: • Distribute PolySweep evenly across surface. e. Polymeric sand is a specialized construction material typically used for landscaping projects like sealing pavers and driveways. One of the most critical steps in a polymeric sand installation is properly compacting the sand into the joints. What can be done if polymeric sand does not harden? If polymeric sand does not harden, the best solution is to remove the existing sand, apply a new layer, and ensure that the sand is dampened before and during application. At this stage, the goal is to saturate your patio area with enough water to reach and activate ALL the sand between pavers. The estimated coverage power is: For joints less than ½" wide: up to 120 sq. Photo courtesy of Unilock. You’ll want to repeat sweeping and compacting until the joints are filled and consolidated. of centrifugal force. 1. This may however not be necessary. You may need to cut the PVC pipes to fit curves in your layout. Updated on March 1, 2023 by Anton Giuroiu. The application of polymeric sand marks the final stage of any paving project. Do not use sand or other material to partially fill the joint. Step 4: Build the base course. The sand will help hold the pavers in place. 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. This method of installing the polymeric sand can be applied to almost any paver a. 5-inch layer of bedding sand needs to be applied. Fill The Gaps. Try not to over or under-saturated, as is demonstrated by the image. Steps for installation: Spread product evenly on a small surface. 7 kg | 50 lbs (bag) 56. 95. Pass over the paving surface twice using your plate compactor. Step 1. 10 – DON’T activate polymeric sand without thoroughly sweeping your pavers. Seal the paving surface to preserve its color and luster. This is why it’s important to sweep in more sand to ensure the joints get filled up to 1/8 inch (3mm) below the paver’s edge or chamfer. Is hand tamping effective?Also, make sure to sweep the polymeric sand into the gap and tap the pavers together after the installation in order to ensure that the polymeric sand settles into the joint. Make sure to let the material dry completely before walking on it or using the area. ) Spread and sweep again. Sealing is not required. Like your bare feet, Then polymeric sand again, and a padded compactor, to set it all solid, then a bit more polymeric, to refill the voids, then gently sprinkle water to activate the polymeric, let dry and seal if you want, but not necessary. 1How to portable sand without a compactor . Gently tumble bag, then cut the bottom and apply Pavermate Polymeric Sand evenly over the surface. It is recommended to use a vibratory plate compactor to help settle the sand. makes it more difficult for weeds to grow. 3. is recommended to plan for at least 24 hours without rain in order to obtain optimal performances. The vibration also compacts the sand grains together with fine dust between which further locks them. Then spread a light layer of sand over the paving. Applying Polymeric Sand for Paver Joints. Paver Set must be placed in the full depth of the joint. It is crucial to remove any traces of cement sand after spraying it with water as it will solidify on the surface of the tiles. This is why it’s important to sweep in more sand to ensure the joints get filled up to 1/8 inch (3mm) below the paver’s edge or chamfer. These include types and ratios of the. I’ve read the use of a plate compactor when putting in the polymeric sand into the paver joints is just to get vibration to help it settle. Polymeric sand is used to fill in the joints in between brick pavers. Ideally this is done using a vibratory plate compactor . For existing jobs, you’ll want to use 3,500 lbs. )The most effective way to compact ground without a compactor is to use your feet by walking over the area. Perfect for patios, pool decks, walkways, and other pedestrian projects. Place the drill bit in the screw holes and drill the wood with a slight slope. Don’t install the sand until the pavers are secure. First, the polymeric sand must be firmly activated into the joints between the stones. You can go without compaction, but the polysand can come up after a few years. 1 SPREAD THE SAND BEFORE YOU BEGIN: • Test product on a small zone. Use a backpack blower to remove all dust. My intention was to sweep the sand over the patio and run the plate compactor over top of the stones. Once you’ve done that, you can form the base layer and flatten the area. Use a broom to fill gaps. 2 Run plate compactor over surface to com-pact the sand. Wait 24 hours after rain. Plan A – Shop Vac I started with a shop vac to suck up all of the sand. This is why it’s important to sweep in more sand to ensure the joints get filled up to 1/8 inch (3mm) below the paver’s edge or chamfer. Model # 497410. Then you'll need to get all the excess off the surface of the pavers before you water the sand to set it. The estimated coverage power is: For joints less than ½" wide: up to 120 sq. the walkway has stood up to a few winters without any problems. 1. Perform The First Sweep 3. Remove excess residue with a leaf blower. It involves sweeping the sand into the gaps between the pavers and compacting them to ensure thorough distribution. Polymeric sand is an effective solution for compacting pavers without the need for a compactor. I'm reading mixed reviews online. Use a broom to fill gaps. The vibration of a compactor is vital to settling sand or polymeric sand into the joints between pavers. Fasten screws on all sides. Pour a layer of concrete sand over the patio area. Techniseal EZSand 40-lb Brown Paver Polymeric Sand. Make sure there isn’t any dampness prior to diving right in and dumping those. (1. Now pour the sand. Spacers must be used between pavers to provide enough space for polymeric sand. Polymeric sand is a semi-permeable sand that contains additives and binding agents to lock paver joints into place. These include cleaning the surface, sweeping the sand, consolidating the sand with a vibratory plate compactor and a protective layer between the compactor and pavers, repeating these steps until the joints are at. This step is critical to obtain solid, durable joints. Planning on a 4" base of compacted crusher run, and a 1" bedding layer of granite sand (pretty typical walkway installation). 180 posts · Joined 2012. Add Sand Between the Cracks Sweep polymeric sand into the cracks between the pavers to help bond the pavers. It also helps to ensure that pavers are firmly set and secure on the surface. (2) Can I run a plate compactor on these pavers without cracking them?Step 1: Lay a Sand Base. 25” min depth when using X-Treme Wide Joint). It might be necessary to use a hand tamp like the one above if you’re working within a limited area. This process also helps to secure the pavers into place. It might be necessary to use a hand tamp like the one above if you’re working within a limited area. If you choose to install polymeric sand without a compactor, it is important to ensure that the sand is firmly packed into any cracks or joints in order to prevent the sand from spreading and to ensure that the sand is secure. Typically our guys only do this for vehicular applications, not pedestrian. This method of installing the polymeric sand can be applied to almost any paver application. This is why it’s important to sweep in more sand to ensure the joints get filled up to 1/8 inch (3mm) below the paver’s edge or chamfer. It is important if you do this step that you use the biaxial geogrid instead of the uniaxial. However, you should make sure that the foundation is correctly laid and level, then use sand and gravel or grout to. 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. Polymeric joint sand will essentially harden like concrete between your paving stones so it is permanent. Polymeric sand has a set of steps that are necessary to follow in order to ensure that it does not fail. For joints from 1/4" to 4" wide. #1 · Sep 3, 2015. 2. 3. Ivory. Water tank allows for easy operator use on hot and cold. Wait 30 days after installation before cleaning and sealing pavers. The goal of the polymeric sand in an installation is precisely to keep water from infiltrating it. Polymeric sand is a blend of properly graded fine sand and a binder compound (polymer) that is specially formulated for filling in the joints between bricks, pavers and natural stones for hardscapes such as patios, driveways and walkways. Polymeric sand is repeatedly utilised in construction or landscaping projects to fill the splices between loose-set pavers on footpaths and terraces. You need a vibratory plate compactor to work the polymeric down into the gaps,. • Check the weather forecast: no precipitation for the next 90 minutes. Brush sand into joints at a 45-degree angle. The material will settle when you hose it down, so. Table Of Contents. is recommended to plan for at least 24 hours without rain in order to obtain optimal performances. Not every pressure washing company offers th. This will vibrate the sand to the bottom of the joint. -deep layer of compacted gravel. Good to Know. If water is applied with too much pressure or allowed to pond before the polymeric sand is fully cured, the reactive ingredients will be washed through the sand and produce a weak joint. Yes, polymeric sand can be activated with sealer. . The sand - "concrete sand" is where the interlock takes place - it comes up and fills the joints causing them to lock up. Plate compactors work best on granular soils such as gravel, sand or light asphalt. Selecting the right plate compactor is key to getting your polymeric sand installation done right. Sweep off any excess material cleaning the surface of any granules of the material to avoid scuffing the pavers in the next step. • In case of uncertainty regarding the installation of this product or for any further assistance, please contact technical support at 1 (800) 465-7325. Pour two inches of sand over the landscape fabric. One of the most important steps in a polymeric sand installation is proper compaction of the sand into the joints. Click here to download the 5 key differences between porcelain and concrete paver installation document. One of the most important steps in a polymeric sand installation is proper compaction of the sand into the joints. Weatherproof – Unlike regular jointing sand, which can be washed away by rain or. The recommended space between the pavers is 3 mm (⅛”). Use the 2x4 as a screed to smooth and level the sand. However, certain manufacturers claim some products can last up to 15 years. Polymeric sand also helps to protect and maintain the stability of the pavers. Shower your pavers to seal and harden the sand. Then see how quickly it sets up and hardens. Using Quikrete polymeric jointing sand is relatively easy. A bag is dumped onto the paving surface and. Do I need a compactor for polymeric sand? One of the most important steps in a polymeric sand installation is proper compaction of the sand into the joints. Multiply the length by the width to get the square footage. Determine the thickness of the sand layer (usually around 1 inch) and calculate the volume in cubic feet. (1) Should I use polymeric sand or just mason sand for the joints. 2. Before choosing a compactor, you must know what soil type you will be compacting. After the initial compaction, you'll notice that the height of the sand will drop dramatically about 30-50%!Oct 10, 20183. This sand is also known as joint sand or leveling sand. 8362 upvotes. This product is ideal for stabilizing joints and gaps between pavers, providing professional-grade results with its revolutionary ceramic flex technology. • Temperature must be above 32°F (0°C) for 48 hours following installation. Following the layout, start digging out the soil. With a push broom sweep it into all seams of your paver surface. Polymeric sand was installed in most of the pavers. The most common method is dry-laying, which basically involves arranging the patio stones in a desired pattern, without using any mortar. Lightly rap with the hammer down the length of the groove until the paver breaks apart. Polymeric joint sand will essentially harden like concrete between your paving stones so it is permanent. You should stop every 4 feet and pull a string line along the laying face, with a screwdriver, adjust that face to the string line. red92s Discussion starter. Polymeric sand has several advantages: It is stable, so the sand won’t end up on the top of your pavers; it allows you to power wash your patio without displacing the joint sand; it gives the patio a cleaner, more finished look. Leiden Cambridge Blend. Stone dust traps and retains moisture which causes polymeric sand to fail. Do your best to saturate to the level of the sand. Platinum Pavers, 2022, notes that polymeric sand is cleaner, more economical, and. Share. It is too rough, and it requires more strength than a. Yes, you can apply a second layer of polymeric sand. Sweep polymeric sand over the pavers and ground it into the joints with a broom. In some cases, you can add dirt surrounding the patio, but you’ll need to plan that out before you get started. Sweep more sand into the joints until the sand is within 1/8” of the top of the paver. We installed soil stabilization fabric, 8” of #57 drainage stone, 1” of #9 drainage stone and pavers. Joint Sand/Polymeric SandI'm getting mixed advice on the final compaction steps for concrete pavers. Joint sand/polymeric sand should not exceed the bottom of the chamfer or 1/8" below the surface of a non-beveled or tumbled paver sur-face. Eventually, the crust will break away, eroding the joint. A rubber pad is recommended. Designed to work with the WEN Plate Compactor, this pad can be easily installed and lasts job after job without needing a new replacement. Check the underground in the pit carefully. It also requires at least 48 hours before vehicular activities are allowed on pavers with polymeric sand. R. After the initial compaction, you'll notice that the height of the sand will drop dramatically about 30-50%!Oct 10, 2018 3. Ad. How do you compact polymeric sand without a compactor? How to Compact Pavers without a Plate Compactor . The pavers I'm using have a normal. It also causes cracks and gaps, because the sand hasn't fully bonded the entire depth of the joint. Stone dust traps and retains moisture which causes polymeric sand to fail. 3. This typically means that the sand needs to be dry for a minimum of 24 hours. 0. 6. You should consider using a plate compactor when the patio or driveway is large. Installing polymeric sand on a damp or wet surface could cause the sand and polymers to stick to the surface and become difficult to remove. BEST OVERALL: Black Diamond Coatings Dominator Polymeric Sand. In laying the bedding sand you should always remember to pour in an even 1/2" thick across the area and not to go over 1". You’ll want to repeat sweeping and compacting until the joints are filled and consolidated. Minimize the machine’s production as much as possible. The sand remains hard when dry and flexible when wet. 7 kg | 50 lbs (bag) 56. Hand tampers are usually used to compact the soil in the garden or other outside areas before installing pavers for walks or patios, garden fountains, fire pits, garden tool. Step 1: Get the Substrates Ready. . Curves will require more spikes. BEST BANG. Step 2: prepare the substrate. Durability is a major selling point for pavers, and employing polymeric sand will just extend the lifespan and stability and resilience of your project. • Temperature must be above 32 °F (0 °C) for 48 hours following installation. 4 – Adding Sand. But there’s an easier way. Polymeric sand cannot be installed in pavers placed on stone dust. polysand) Ideal for filling gaps between pavers, stones or bricks in patios, walkways, driveways or any hardscaping project. If the thin pavers are slightly higher than the border pavers, the plate compactor can settle them into the sand for an even height across the entire patio, according to McShane's Nursery & Landscape Supply. Easy Install Procedure. You should consider using a plate compactor when the patio or driveway. . It can also help to protect your pavers from staining and fading. Level and straighten: Use a level to make sure your pavers are flat while. This process may be repeated to ensure complete coverage. Step 1: Inspect the Area and Check the Weather Before you start, inspect the entire area to make sure that everything is dry. One of the most important steps in a polymeric sand installation is proper compaction of the sand into the joints. Use a garden hose to spray enough water over the joint area to activate the polymeric sand and form a hardtop barrier. Do not use sand or other material to partially fill the joint. Where a plate compactor cannot be used, proceed with a manual compaction: hammer vigorously each corner as well as the contour of each slab with a rubber mallet. Stone dust will only get hard "under" the pavers and actually hold water, which is another issue. The vibration of a compactor is vital to settling sand or polymeric sand into the joints between pavers. My 10 year old daughter can install it flawlessly, so I'm pretty sure you could. Using a plate compactor with a protective rubber mat, vibrate the pavers and polymeric sand down into the bedding sand. It is important to dampen the sand thoroughly for it to settle and properly harden between the jointed pavers. If polymeric sand is installed prior to sealing, be sure surface is dry for 24 hours before applying sealer. The best polymeric sand is made of binding materials such as quartz,. Properly com-pacted joint sand eliminates air pockets and provides optimal stabilization conditions. If the sand is still not hardening,. Extensive cleaning of the surface of the pavers is critical to remove all jointing sand before wetting down the sand. Before pouring the sand, you must dry clean the surface to remove any debris or dust. By doing so make sure that you are excavating the right depth of the substrate. I'm currently working on a brick garden edging project. These include cleaning the surface, sweeping the sand, consolidating the sand with a vibratory plate compactor and a protective layer between the compactor and pavers, repeating these steps until the joints are at. Spread it Correctly. It has several advantages: It is stable, so the sand won’t end up on the top of your pavers; it allows you to power wash your patio without displacing the joint sand; it gives the patio a cleaner,Check Price on Amazon. Paver Set must be placed in the full depth of the joint. Patios take maintenance. Generally we install an 8″ base using ASTM #57 stone and install in 4″ lifts. Polymeric jointing sand has additives that'll hold pavers better than sand alone, but the pavers must be completely dry before application. First, examine the pit’s interior. Consider this my official mulch glue. The additives help lock the fine sand particle. 7.