8 Best Polymeric Sands To Fill Cracks & Holes In 2024
wedetso chirhah poulami nag pratibha bagdy Pratibha holds a master's degree in English from Madras University and has qualified UGC-NET. A bookworm from a young age, she devours books and digital humanities to nourish her writing projects. Pratibha began her writing career in 2018 and has experience writing formal, informal, and technical content.
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Polymeric sands are used to fill the gaps when laying stones and tiles on the floor. They are also useful in filling cracks and holes. Today, the best polymeric sands are commonly used by experts across the world and have become the standard when it comes to blending binding materials.
Polymeric sand is made by blending sand, polymers, silica, and other additives depending on the requirements. It also keeps a check on the overgrowth of weeds. If you are lost and confused about which brand to choose from, you have arrived at the right place. Read through the post as we discuss some quality-tested polymeric sand for your needs.
Top Picks
8 Best Polymeric Sands
1. Best Durable:Dominator Polymeric Sand
The Dominator Polymeric Sand pack is powered with the revolutionary Ceramic Flex technology that offers excellent bonding strength, making it a trusted choice of many reviewers. It supports joints up to four inches and offers maximum durability and flexibility. The sand is formulated with fine-grained sand and zero cement and is easy to install, thus saving you time and labor. In addition, the advanced formula fills in joints easily and is UV- and water-resistant.
Pros
- Dries within 24-48 hours even in humid environments
- Small particle size makes it optimal for filling in small spaces
- Flows easily in powder form
- Weed-resistant
Cons
- May be messy
- Package may be small
"The sand fits well into both wide and narrow joints. I made sure it got adequate drying time, and now it provides a firm hold that doesn't wash away easily. It needs some maintenance, especially after heavy rain, but overall, it's a solid choice for joint filling and stabilization."
Quick tip2. Best Dust-Free:Alliance Gator Maxx G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand
The Gator Maxx G2 polymer sand from Alliance is ideal for natural stone joints and pavers. It provides optimal results for joints up to four inches in drainage application and two inches in overlay application. The high-strength polymer is suitable for overlay and non-overlay and commercial and residential applications and can also be used on false joint pavers.
The ASTM C144 gradation allows you to use the sand even in the tightest joints, and it is OSHA crystalline silica compliant. And the Rapid Set technology makes it rain-safe after 15 minutes following water activation. Moreover, the sand is dust-free, haze-free, and blower-free and is available in beige, slate gray, ivory, and black diamond.
Pros
- Erosion-resistant
- One bag goes a long way
- Easy to use
- Requires only one watering
Cons
- Might not be suitable to store in humid environments
3. Best Erosion-Proof:Buddingco Polymeric Sand
This Buddingco polymeric sand in beige is a unique blend of calibrated sand and polymer binders and comes in an 18lb pack. It has exceptional joint stabilizing properties, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as patios, pool decks, pavements, parking lots, and driveways. Besides, it can also be used on false joint pavers. The durable and long-lasting sand, known for its proven quality, prevents erosion due to rain, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles and sets at above 32°F.
Pros
- Retains its flexibility
- Each pack covers an area of 30-40 sq ft
- Hardens quickly
- Easy to handle and use
Cons
- No other color options
"I recently tried out this patio joint sand filler and found it to be quite effective. The color of the sand blended well with my patio, and the instructions were easy to follow. I'm planning to stick with it for future touch-ups."
Dominator Polymeric Sand Best Durable | Alliance Gator Maxx G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand Best Dust-Free | Buddingco Polymeric Sand Best Erosion-Proof | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Midnight Black | - | Grey |
| Dimensions | 9.5 x 9.5 x 3 inches | 9.5 x 9.5 x 3 inches | - |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 10 pounds | 17.06 pounds |
| Compatible Material | Ceramic | Ceramic | - |
| Material | Ceramic. | Ceramic. | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,418 | 196 | 83 |
| Price | $15.5 | $75.99 | $59.95 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Stain-Free:Mutual Industries 7015-0-0 Lock-Em-Up Paver Sand
The gray 7015-0-0 Lock-Em-Up paver sand from Mutual Industries helps secure pavers in place. This tried-and-tested polymer-modified sand stabilizes joints and prevents erosion between two pavers. It is formulated with silica sand and polymer bonding agent and is highly durable. Further, the polymeric jointing sand minimizes weed growth and formation of ant hills. Each 50lb bag can cover an area of about 300 sq ft.
Pros
- Stain-resistant
- Works well with granite pavers
- Spreads nicely
- True to its color
Cons
- Might not be suitable for filling large gaps
- Some residual sand might come off for a few days after solidifying
Point to consider5. Best Waterproof:Alliance Gator Haze Free Polymeric Super Sand Bond
This Alliance Gator polymeric super sand in beige is ideal for paver joints up to a maximum of one inch. It is formulated with Advanced Haze Free Technology and binds the tightest of joints. The formula prevents weed growth, damages caused by insects, and erosion due to freeze-thaw cycles, rain, and wind. The sand comes in a waterproof bag and is easy to store. It is a unique mix of calibrated sand and polymer binders. Once set, the bond is firm and long-lasting yet flexible. Moreover, the sand is OSHA crystalline silica-compliant and meets ASTM C-144 specifications for fine gradation.
6. Best Haze-Free:Rhino Power Bond Plus Polymeric Sand
The Rhino Power Bond Plus polymeric paver sand is suitable for sealing stone and paver joints up to a maximum of two inches and can be used for overlay, non-overlay, commercial, and residential applications. The low-maintenance and performance-driven beige formula is haze-free, dust-free, and blower-free and requires one watering for drainage application. Moreover, the polymer super sand prevents erosion due to wind, rain, or freeze-thaw and comes packaged in a waterproof bag.
Pros
- Professional-grade formula
- Keeps weeds out
- Easy to use
- Setting time of just one hour
- Each 50lb bag covers an area of 40-85 sq ft
Cons
- May be slightly brownish
"I just wrapped up a project with this polymeric sand, and I'm impressed by the solid finish. It was easy to use, even for a first-timer like me. Let’s see how durable it is, though. I’m hoping for a good long-term performance."
7. Best Weather-Resistant:ConSANDtrate Polymeric Sand Concentrate
The ConSANDtrate polymeric sand concentrate, when added to dry sand at a ratio of ten to one, yields a custom, on- or off-site polymeric sand. It can be used on hardscape, flat rock, and paver joints. Tested by many reviewers, this water-activated sand concentrate also allows you to mix custom colors. You can also mix sand with ConSANDtrate sand concentrate at a ratio of five to one to create a more concentrated polymeric sand and use it to fill cracks on concrete and exposed aggregate slabs.
Pros
- Tintable with colorant for custom colors
- Weather-resistant
- Inhibits weed growth
- Insect deterrent
Cons
- May be chunky if not mixed properly
- May not retain a firm hold in the long run
"I went for this because it allows custom mixing with my choice of sand and gives a satisfying finish and durable hold. I’d say success largely depends on using dry sand and thorough mixing. Initially, I noticed some discoloration in some parts, but after a few touch-ups, I haven’t had this problem."
8. Best Flake-Proof:SRW Pavermate Z3 Polymeric Sand
If you are looking to seal paver joints or concrete pavers up to a maximum of two inches, the SRW Pavermate Z3 is excellent polymer sand that does the job efficiently. This tan-colored sand enhances structural stability and offers superior bonding. The engineered polymer blend is formulated for better activations and quick set-up. The fine gradation allows you to use it for even the tightest joints. Moreover, the crack-resistant formula prevents hazing, causes no flakes, residue, or staining, and is free of haze and dust.
How To Choose The Right Polymeric Sand?
Consider these factors when choosing reliable polymeric sand.
- Quality: Good-quality polymeric sands prevent weed growth and damages caused by insects. They are made of finer sand and can fill the smallest and tightest joints.
- Drying time: Polymeric sand usually takes 24 to 48 hours of drying time for non-drainage applications. Some polymer sands employ Rapid Set technology, which allows quick setting in 15 minutes for drainage applications.
- Resistance: Superior-quality polymeric sands are resistant to erosion from wind and freeze-thaw and are also rain-safe. These sands are also haze-free, dust-free, and blower-free.
- Application: Polymeric sand can be used for commercial and residential applications. It is also suitable for overlay, no-overlay, and false joint pavers. Consider the application before choosing one.
- Color: Polymeric sand comes in a wide color range, including beige, gray, and slate gray. Pick a color that blends perfectly with the color of the pavers or stones.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there an alternative to polymeric sand?
Yes, cement or natural sand are good alternatives to polymeric sand.
2. When should I not use polymeric sand?
You should refrain from using polymeric sand when it rains or if rain is forecasted shortly after application. This is because rain can activate the polymers and harden the sand even before the sand is installed.
3. Can I pressure-wash polymeric sand?
Pressure-washing polymeric sand can remove the sand by softening the binders. However, for tough areas, you may need mechanical removal methods.
4. Should I seal my pavers before installing polymeric sand?
It would be best to seal the pavers after installing polymeric sand. Modern methods require only a 30-day delay before sealing.
5. Can I put new polymeric sand over old polymeric sand?
It is not recommended to apply new polymeric sand over the old one. Remove the old polymeric sand and clean the area before installing the new polymeric sand.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso is a versatile product writer and reviewer specializing in household products, electronics, and more. His articles ensure in-depth research and contain premium products. Keeping your requirements and quality parameters in mind, he has curated this list of the best polymeric sands for a strong infrastructure. These time-tested products blend in with the surrounding, resist extreme weather, and contain quality ingredients. He has also included a buying guide and FAQ section to help you choose.
Polymeric sands are used to stabilize and bind the stones and tiles on the floor to ensure there are no unnecessary gaps or cracks that can lead to weed growth, insect infestation, and further damage to the foundation. The best polymeric sands listed here can help you create impermeable blocks with maximum durability and flexibility and save you time and energy while performing the task. When choosing one, make sure to consider the quality, drying time, resistance, color, and ease of use.
Infographic: How To Use Polymeric Sand To Fill Gaps Effectively?
Polymeric sand is a specialized material used to fill gaps between pavers, providing stability and durability. Its unique composition ensures a firm bond, preventing weed growth and enhancing the overall appearance of the paved surface. Refer to the infographic below to learn how to use polymeric sand properly, ensuring proper curing with minimal staining.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
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