Paver sand is similar to playground sand, but the granules are mixed with a silica additive to make them more course and binding. The cost of the chosen hardscaping material and joint stabilization method should be weighed against the benefits and long-term maintenance requirements. Second, remove any loose debris from between the gaps. 5 ft2. You may choose to use stone dust if you have a large supply of it, or prefer the texture and appearance of it. Different brands of polymeric sand available for cleaning patio pavers include Alliance Gator Super Sand, Sakrete Paver Set, and Techniseal HP NextGel. My understanding is that it is best to clear the joints out completely, then reapply the polymeric sand. Additional comment actions. Mortar is a type of cement that is used to bind bricks or other construction materials together. While polymeric sand will create a durable and reliable bond between pavers, regular sand is ideal for creating a stable and level base. With Techniseal’s industry-leading. You’ll have to spread the paver leveling sand on top and around the pipes and screed it with the 2×4. Sand and decomposed granite have a similar texture, but their composition is. Both Are Types of Sand. Polymeric sand contains additives like quartz and silica, while regular sand doesn’t. 1. This can help maintain the integrity of the paver installation over time. Easier to install and more durable than traditional hardscape aggregate, they also prevent weed growth and insect infestations. Polymeric sand is designed to fill the joints between pavers, creating an even surface and helping to keep the pavers locked together, preventing the movement of individual pavers. What is Regular Sand? Polymeric sand is not used in all hardscaping projects. . The product is ideal for stabilizing joints between pavers and preventing weed growth in outdoor spaces. Colors. Polymeric sand doesn’t hold in moisture, thus preventing the growth of mold and mildew. It’s suitable for a range of paver materials, including. The price does vary for polymeric sand, but you can expect the price to range between $20 – $40 per 55lb – 50lb bag. Its. Regular sand is to large for the paver cracks and it should only be used to establish a base. Regular sand is versatile, cheap, readily accessible, and easier to work with. of the sand Mold and Moss Prevention Does not allow water to penetrate and will dry faster. Heenan, Cannon, Mack, and Theodore are four outdoor enthusiasts. Regular sand tends to need a new bag about every 3 years and polymeric is going on 5 but will need an add this year. Polymeric sand is a product specially developed for paver joints. Polymeric sand is a mix of different fine sands and other additives. This polymeric sand consists of a 10: 1 ratio of polymer and sand to form a strong and unbreakable substance for filling and mending hard surfaces. You will also need some sort of tool that is thin enough to fit into the crack, so you can compact the sand. When suitable preparation is taken (such such turf killer, insect repellant/removal), this polymeric jointing sand has one ability toward reduce weed growth, resist rain. g. After this is done, you can use the. Difference #2: Gator Nitro offers top-to-bottom strength. If it’s a smaller paver area, use boiling water. Fill the crack with the sand, tamping it down firmly as you go. 2. the extra time it takes to drain doesn't warrant switching back to regular sand, and risking weed seed germinating into a nightmare. EasyJoint is the All Weather Joint compound. Choosing the correct type of sand has essential to lock the pavers and ensure that they were laid firmly so that the structure lasts longer. Issues One of the most common sand-related problems is haze. These heavy-duty materials can be used in between both pavers and slabs. Furniture. After investing in a new paver patio or driveway we recommend joint stabilizing silica sand and sealer. This will lead to the washout of the pavers and poor vertical interlock which is important to the strength of the interlock pavement system. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. It is a mix of sand and special additives and is usually made of quartz, granite, marble or other similar materials. It can be easily used as a joint filler for brick pavers. Polymeric sand vs. Sand is a critical device to creating inviting and durable walkways and paver patios. Regular Sand for Pavers. 4. Water cannot really flow through hardened polymeric sand. This angular material is designed to lock pavers into place. Additionally, regular sand does not contain any chemicals or additives, which makes it a safe choice for those looking to avoid chemical exposure. If it isn’t applied correctly, things like a pressure washer will cause more harm than good. 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. Polymeric sand is a particular type of sand that, when mixed with water, creates a binding agent extremely powerful that binds the sand particles together. The pressure washer should have a PSI of 3,500 or less, and the nozzle should be a 25- or 40-degree nozzle. Both polymeric and regular sand are types of sand that are used in the construction industry. makes it more difficult for weeds to grow. SRW Pavermate Z3 Polymeric Sand (Tan) for Concrete & Paver Joints up to 2" – 50lb Bag w/ Contractor Tip. Spontaneous323 • 3 yr. The polymers activate and help bind the sand particles together when properly installed. 4. I've…No, paver sand and silica sand are not the same. First, wet the area where the pavers will be installed. On the other hand, polymeric sand is man-made sand composed of polymer additives. 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. Choosing the correct type of sand has essential to seal the pavers and ensure that they what laid. This will create a perfectly 1″ layer of sand. However, this is not a black-or-white issue. When mixed with water, the polymer additives in the sand create a chemical bond that hardens the sand and locks the pavers together. Polymeric joint sand will essentially harden like concrete between your paving stones so it is permanent. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that’s specially formulated for filling on paver joints. Regular sand is much more likely to slowly trickle out of the joints, leaving your pavers looking sloppy. check the weather. Polymeric sand is our preference but there's nothing wrong with using sand. pour the sand. The sand will re-heal itself with the paver, sealing the crack. Polymeric sand is usually good for about ten years, so re-sanding costs are saved when using this type of sand. Gator Dust is a crushed stone product similar to quarter minus that has polymers added to it that whenactivated with. Polymeric Sand VS Regular Sand for Pavers: Ultimate Guide. Table of ContentsPolymeric Sand VS Regular Sand For PaversWhat Is Paver Sand?Polymeric Sand Uses for Paver#1. However, you should think carefully about the long-term benefits; polymeric sand may cost more initially but add up to. For one, you’ll get a more durable finish. 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. Another major difference here is of course that polymeric sand is only used in between joints, whereas joint stabilizing sealer is also applied to the pavers themselves. Regular sand is more appropriately used for leveling the paver. Easy to clean with water Will hold water in between the pavers and encourage moss and mold in shaded areas Performance ACCEL polymeric sand vs. Get it now on Amazon. Today, we still offer the highest performing jointing products on the market. The result is a longer-lasting paver installation. Benefits from the Nextgel technology for cleaner application and faster wetting. For the best result, it is much better to wait at least 1-3 days for polymeric sand to set before allowing foot traffic or any movements on its surface. Sand is ampere critical component to creating inviting additionally durable walkways and paver patios. Builder’s Sand. It is this sand that allows the interlocked mechanism to work. After you put it down, you wet it, and it adheres to itself. When put in contact with water, this substance. Conclusion. Below, find picks for the best polymeric sand in a range of categories. ProGrass 50-lb Green (8-Bag) Artificial Grass Infill. Conclusion. However, not everyone wants to use polymeric sand, and many homeowners opt for an alternative. What Are the Different Types of Polymeric Sand? Standard polymeric sand is a popular choice for smaller joints up to 2 inches. Polymeric and regular sand are two types. Paver sand is specifically designed for filling the joints between pavers. Comes in only one color. Patio installers prefer polymeric sand to regular sand because it sticks to pavers better and keeps the joints between them even and durable. Another type of paver sand you might encounter is polymeric sand. When mixed with water, it forms a strong binding agent that can be used to fill spaces between pavers,. We applied Polymeric Sand for the pavers, unfortunately we sprinkled before the use of the leaf blower. Jointing compounds are more expensive. Regular sand is not permanent and is easy to remove if there is a need to adjust pavers. We recommend filling/compacting the paver joints until the sand reaches ⅛” below the edge or chamfer of the paver. - Driveway Expert Polymeric Sand vs Regular Sand – What’s The Difference? by Driveway Expert Laying pavers can create a stunning outdoor area like a. Weatherproof – Unlike regular jointing sand, which can be washed away by. When these polymers are activated by water, they expand and join together to form a. On the other hand, polymeric sand is man-made sand composed of. Multiple factors make it such, but the low and affordable price is a huge reason for this. When applying the polymeric sand, it is important to use a tamper or vibrating compactor so that the polymeric sand settles down fully into the cracks; you don't want air pockets in it when it is setting. If you do, the likelihood of it cracking like concrete is increased. Homeowners don’t need to replace polymeric sand continuously. I'm in the last steps of installing pavers in my front yard. As you can see, the price varies considerably. Helps reduce joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. The ICPI endorses the use of polymeric sand. Vinegar solution, baking soda paste, and lemon juice are recommended eco-friendly cleaning options for removing polymeric sand from pavers. I opted for a soft-bristled broom to avoid accidentally scratching or damaging the. In short, no you cannot use regular sand between pavers. The “glue” that ties paving projects together. Reduces weed growth. Cutting corners and not following the manufacturer’s instructions tops the list. 1. A polymeric sand installation requires the use of a controlled and methodical watering technique. Launched in the early 2000s, polymeric sand is a material that is manufactured specifically for jointing paving slabs and brick pavers. Run a plate compactor and reapply. Ive got a 15x40 paver patio full of moss and weeds thats in dire need of a pressure washing. Also, in terms of regular sand. Polymeric Black is a mixing of sand and special additives designed to fill who fittings between concrete pavers and brick pavers. - Bar sand is also used in making many types of mortars which are needed for veneering walls or outdoor accents such as fireplaces. A leaf blower on a very low setting is a good way to do this. Unlike regular sand, polymeric sand will not be washed away by heavy rain . color options. It is more expensive than regular dry joint sand but not as pricey as joint compound. 2. With polymeric sand, pavers won’t shift after pressure-washing the area. They look nice but now that it's spring, things are sprouting between the pavers and I figured that it might be best to use polymeric sand to make sure plants don't sprout on the drive way and damage the nice looking pavers. Second, it aids in the filling of any fractures or gaps between pavers. 5-pound bucket. Unlike regular sand, polymeric sand hardens, preventing any shifting or movement over time. It costs $50 to $75 per 27. Put down paver base (compactible gravels) and DO compact for every 2" of subbase. Polymeric sand actually cures via drying, whereas Easy Joint cures through a chemical reaction with oxygen. We prefer joint stabilizing paver sealer over Polymeric sand for several reasons. Joints that are between ¼ inches and 1. . It provides unparalleled protection for water damage, weed growth, and insects while being both easy to install and satisfying your personal color choices. Obviously, there are others, but this is probably an average mix of pavers you would see anywhere in the country. Understanding Polymeric Sand. It’s highly durable and will. Because the sand is very coarse, you must use it regularly. Polymeric sand can be stored for a long time if stored correctly. Regular sand is a worse product than poly, it grows weeds fast and blows away easily. Whether you want your sand to be fixed or loose is the ultimate decision before deciding on the type. 2. Two of the most commonly used sealants for pavers include polymeric sand and Easy Joint. 1. Polymeric sand outperforms regular sand in terms of stability, durability, and weed control. This may be to save time or to cut costs, sometimes both. Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand combined with other additives. 6. 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. However, this is a very basic estimate, and it actually depends on the conditions faced by your paver, such as weather. Power washing again will make a mess and drive out remaining sand. 2. Stabilizes paver installations - follows soil movement. It is more flexible than fine dry sweeping sand but should not be used in driveways. Well, this sand is flexible, which makes it an ideal option for contractors and homeowners. Project requirements: dominator XL works well in paver joint width 1/8 to 4 in. For starters, it strengthens the bond between the pavers. Polymeric sand is available in different colors and is easy to install. Grout is generally an interior joint sealer, whereas polymeric sand is usually an outdoor joint sealer. The only solution would be to completely remove the polymeric sand redo the whole pathway. Hi all, I’m hoping to get a bit of advice on how to proceed. Choosing the correctly type of sand a essential to seal who pavers and assure that they are laid firmly so that. Regular and polymeric sand have their pros & cons. Fix. If you have access to a compacting machine, that will make. This special polymeric sand will bind the sand particles together when reacted with water but will not cause a problem known as poly haze. Sand can be a mixture of minerals, quartz, feldspar, mica, and silicon dioxide. Use a push broom to spread it and the. A final layer is gently swept into the gaps, without the aid of any compaction. Six inches of loose base will compact down to approximately 4 inches deep. Each bag is designed to cover 4–5 feet when used as a joint stabilizing material. Polymeric sand can cost anywhere from $20 to $90 per 50-pound bag. This product, applied with a brush or sprayer, fills in the gaps between pavers and hardens to. CasaScapes 35-lb Gray Paver Polymeric Sand. For more product information please call 215. My 10 year old daughter can install it flawlessly, so I'm pretty sure you could. 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. However, sometimes it is necessary to remove polymeric sand due to various reasons like improper installation or the need to replace damaged pavers. The only downside is its price. STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE Unused bags can be stored outside if they are still on a pallet and protected by the original packaging. Step 1: The first step you need to take while installing paver sand is to fight the prevailing weeds in your patio. If you want to avoid this during the installation process, then cement-free polymeric is going to be the best option. 4. So, when it rains, instead of the sand washing out of the joints, the. It is a budget-friendly polymeric sand for installations carried out in light-duty environments. Polymeric Sandpaper - 14 Items You Should Knows Before You Buy | Toemar Landscaping and Garden SuppliesGenerally, at least two passes are made to seat the pavers. FM20 sand is produced by crushing larger stone or gravel into finer particles. Pros of polymeric sand. This assumes you sweep sand, vibrate and sweep a second time for traditional pavers (slab type wet cast pavers should not be vibrated). Thus, the most suitable pressure for cleaning pavers is the medium range (From 1600 to 2000 PSI). Silica, found in polymeric sand, is one additive that helps keep find sand particles together. 5 of coarse sand for the bed. In smaller areas, pour in more from a clean yogurt cup and use a hand broom. It consists of regular fine sand particles, combined with silica and quartz, as. Sweep in the sand. But if you want the structure to be strong then it’s essential that. 9. EnviroSAND is flexible so cracking doesn’t occur in the joints. Polymeric sand is regular fine sand mixed with silica, quartz, and other synthetic binders. Find and save ideas about paver sand on Pinterest. I would not however use it on block paving the suppliers say you need a fairly wide gap of 3mm and to go in at least 20mm. For more than 20 years that have been providing the best work in the installation and maintenance of pavers. JJS. The solution lies with polymeric Sand which is used to fill the complete depth of the paver. So there you have it, folks. Polymeric sand. MY PATIO LOVE CLUB. Apply an even, 1-inch layer of sand on top of the compact gravel. 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. Mortar and grout aren't ideal for most outdoor settings. Installing polymeric sand on a wet or damp surface can cause the sand and polymers to stick to the surface of the pavers where it becomes difficult to remove. It also requires at least 48 hours before vehicular activities are allowed on pavers with polymeric sand. 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. Once this sand is in place, use a tamping tool to compact the sand into an even layer. The filled and cured polymeric sand joints should never be in direct contact with foot traffic or tires. 1. Once the sand is wetted, the binders activate and harden, creating a solid surface. 4. Unlike polymeric sand, white-washed sand does not form as much of a bond, but it still contains silica. Executes it matter if you use just regular sand?. This works great for securing paver joints but it is not the same as regular sand. Polymeric sand, unlike regular sand, is not a natural material. Polymeric sand is a material used to fill paver joints, the empty spaces found between each paver, tile or natural stone. It is very fine sand, and it has a white or yellowish color. No, you cannot use all purpose sand for pavers. This sand features coarse particles that grip together and prevent the pavers from shifting out of place. It outperforms regular sand when a homeowner is looking to lock the paver joints properly and wants a steady and. 2. The filled and cured polymeric sand joints should never be in direct contact with foot traffic or tires. Durability. This creates a fairly strong bond between your pavers that is less likely to be eroded by weather. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that contains additives that help bind the sand together. Paver patios need sand to seal the pavers and make sure the structure is firmly in place and durable. Make sure your joints are dry. 5-cu ft Brown Leveling Paver Sand. Once the crack is filled, spray down with a hose to wet the sand and keep it in place while it dries. See morePolymeric sand outperforms regular sand in terms of stability, durability, and weed control. Buy On Amazon. Nov 8, 2023 11:06 PM. ago. Regular sand is easy to obtain and offers several advantages when compared to polymeric sand. Then it is critical to lightly blow the area clean so that the poly sand is off the paver tops, and then lightly water the sand to create the. 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. Polymeric sand is a thin sand that when combined with additives and water forms a binding agent. This process may be repeated to ensure complete coverage. Add the paver base, rake smooth, sprinkle with water and compact it firmly. Sand is ultimately a much safer option than stone dust for paving projects. It takes about a minimum of 24 hours for polymeric sand to completely set. 2. COMPACTER TO VIBRATE THE PAVERS!) Continue to add sand until the joints are full. Exterior Use. Keep repeating this step as many times as necessary to get rid of excess polymeric sand. Step-by-Step Instructions. The sand helps to secure the pavers in place, while also creating an aesthetic look to the finished project. Protect. On the dry paver flooring, sweep the floor with a soft-bristled broom. How To Use Polymeric Sand for Pavers & Interlocking Joints. What works better for a project may not work as well for another project. Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and MaterialsThe primary purpose of polymeric sand is to resist weeds and ants while holding pavers in place. These are the steps to properly use the sand and get a seamless finish. Masonry sand: Fine-grained masonry sand can be used as an alternative to polymeric sand or regular paver joint sand. Polymeric sand is a precise mixture of natural Sand and polymer binders. As a result of its composition, polymeric sand is better fitted to withstand rain better than regular sand. I used Easy joint in my slabs and it was brilliant over a year and no trace of a weed. Paver sand is much coarser than silica sand and is not made up of the same materials. Polymeric sand is a specialized construction material typically used for landscaping projects like sealing pavers and driveways. The installation of Gator Super Sand Bond is almost identical to using regular paver joint sand except for the application of water. Alliance Gator Maxx Intelligent Polymeric Sand - Best for Preventing Erosion & Damage Caused by Insect Infestation. Out of these three main ingredients, the first two make up approximately 85-95% of the product by volume. 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. Naturally, you wanna match the poly sand color to the pavers. deep. 4. In terms of appearance, polymeric sand also provides a more even and consistent look compared to regular sand. It can also be a long-term solution for repairing cracks on these surfaces. 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. Activate With Water. : Permeable pavers are a type of hardscaping material that allows water to drain through the surface and into the ground below. Sweep clean. Polymeric sand can be more expensive than regular sand, but may provide a more durable and weed-resistant joint. 1. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that contains additives that help bind the sand together. Benefits of Polymeric Sand: Strength and Durability: The hardened polymeric sand forms a robust bond between the pavers, ensuring they stay securely in place. Durability. Polymeric sand is a type of sand that's often recommended for paver joints. 3. Jointing sand is made up of fine grains, to which manufacturers add a mixture of specific additive particles. Polymeric sand is a very special type of man-made sand. Regular Sand. For me both tend to grow grass because our horses kick up a lot. 7 Most Common Reasons for Polymeric Sand Failures. EnviroSAND is a name brand polymeric sand alternative. Finally, it is resistant to pests and bug infestation. 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. But if you're working with larger, natural stones with irregular. If the area is large or has had 24 hours to cure and set, scrub brushes should be used. Regular sand can also last long but will require adjustments every 2 years so that the pavement doesn't shift. g. Eventually, the crust will break away, eroding the joint. 6. When used in conjunction with the appropriate jointing material, paver sand helps to lock the pavers in place. 1. Polymeric Sand vs. Jointing sand – – is a fine and coarse sand mix that will lock the pavers together by friction. Polymeric sand improves the overall durability of the hardscape you install Durability is a major selling point for pavers, and employing polymeric sand will just. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. 5. Best Polymeric Sands. Polymeric sand is a specialized construction material typically used for landscaping projects like sealing pavers and driveways. Benefits of Regular Sand. Sealing pavers with sand involves sweeping the sand into the joints and compacting it. Polymeric joint sand will essentially harden like concrete between your paving stones so it is PERMANENT. 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. Obviously, there are others, but this is probably an average mix of pavers you would see anywhere in the country. 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. Damaged pavements and driveways are more than just an eyesore- they can compromise the safety of your landscape. Crystalline silica. The purpose of polymeric sand is to fill the joints between pavers and to help stabilize the surface of a patio, walk, or driveway. It takes about a minimum of 24 hours for polymeric sand to completely set. If you're looking for a way to improve the look and feel of your pavers, polymer sand for pavers may be the right solution for you. The ICPI endorses the use of polymeric sand. Polymeric sand is not meant to function like tile grout at all. Exactly how fine stone dust is, however, depends on the exact stone dust you get, as some may be finer than others. Screened regular sand costs $5-$30 per ton, while polymeric sand costs $20-$40 per 50lb-55lb bag. Without using the knife, you are very likely to get frustrated while opening the waterproof bag. regular sand LANDSCAPING Variety of applications - Pavers, Flagstone,Natural stone, ConcreteFirst, it is readily available and easy to find in most places. activation and quickly becomes resistant to water erosion (rain, splashes, sprinklers, etc. The key difference between dust and sand is the size of the joints between your stones. Polymeric sands last ten to fifteen years between pavers, depending on the building and experts performing installation techniques. Hazing can also occur if sand residue isn’t. The term “polymeric sand” might sound like multiple sort of high-tech, futuristic product, but there’s a good chance you’ve encountered it somewhere along the line. Choosing the correct type of sand is essential to seal the pavers and ensure that they are laid firmly so that an. Make sure it is screeded equally and no deviations. The introduction of polymeric sand helped homeowners prevent these. Leave a small gap (typically 1/8 to 1/4 inch or 3 to 6 mm) between each paving stone. Using too much water can cause the sand to wash out of the joints. This will lock the sand particles together helping secure pavers in a uniform and durable surface. Backed by a 15-year limited warranty. No, polymeric sand does not harden in the same way that concrete does. I want to address all three of those, give you a brief description of what. The following step-by-step guide will help you safely and effectively remove dried polymeric sand from the top of your pavers. Users sweep the product in between the gaps in pavers, thoroughly reaching every nook and cranny. • Pavers must be installed on a drainage base composed of an upper layer of a maximum 1 inch thickness of bedding sand and a lower layer of compacted crushed stone. Mason's sand is more similar to concrete sand, so it ensures more resilience against the force of nature than normal polymeric sand. My 10 year old daughter can install it flawlessly, so I'm pretty sure you could. Poly Sands & NOCO. While polymeric sand can provide some benefits, such as increased stability and weed. Polymeric sand is a material used to fill paver joints, the empty spaces found between each paver, tile or natural stone. Table of Contents. Wet polymeric sand would be much harder to get off the surface, so ensure the floor is completely dry. Polymeric Sand is a mix of sand and specialized additives designed the fill the seals between concret pavers and brick pavers. Cutting corners and not following the manufacturer’s instructions tops the list. The hardened joints resisted weeds, ants couldn’t tear it up to. For some areas (e. It is sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand or hardscape sand. The most recommended of the different sands available is polymeric sand or paving sand. Pros and Cons of Using Regular Sand for Pavers. This non-staining sand resists erosion, weed growth and insects. Regular paver sand may be sold as all-purpose sand or jointing sand. A water-activated polymer is introduced to the sand. You should not use just any sand that you can get a hold of to put in between your paver joints. Save yourself the headaches when it comes to the install of such. EnviroSAND is flexible so cracking doesn’t occur in the joints. 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.