If a new driveway or patio is on the cards this year, you may be wondering which grout is best and whether polymeric sand is a strong contender.
While it is not the cheapest option on the market, costing around £15–£30 per bag, it is more affordable than bound jointing systems such as resin and epoxy and can offer better drainage.
To know more about polymeric sand, what it is, how it is used Think drivewayAnd how it stacks up against other popular content, keep reading — we spoke to two experts to find out.
What is polymeric sand and why do you use it?
According to Andy McLaughlin RF PavingPolymeric sand is a mixture of fine-grade sand mixed with a polymer binder that hardens when water is applied.
Many people use it to fill joints in block paving, concrete paving and natural stone paving, and although it is often found. Driveway materialIt can also be applied to patios, walkways and garden paths.
While it is more expensive than kiln-dried sand or basic paver joint sand, it can be a budget-friendly alternative to premium jointing materials such as epoxy and resin.
|
Polymeric sand |
Kiln dry sand |
Resin |
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
expenses |
£15–£30 per bag |
£4–£8 per bag |
£25–£60 per bag |
|
application |
Brush in dry and activate with water |
Settled with a brush and wacker plate in the joints |
Brushed and compacted in joints |
|
Durability |
good |
Low/Medium |
Excellent |
Andy McLaughlin is a paving and landscaping specialist at RF Paving, a family-run business who are the UK’s leading importers and distributors of stone, paving and contemporary garden solutions.
How do you apply polymeric sand?
If you like the sound of polymeric sand and fancy walking on it, you’ll be happy to hear that it’s relatively easy to install.
Andy McLaughlin explains that you will need to pour sand over your paving and clean it into the joints using a soft brush. Once the excess is removed, spray a fine mist of water, which will activate a chemical process, causing it to harden and cure.
A word of warning: you want to make sure the excess is completely removed before you apply water; Otherwise, you will be left with stained pavers. The surface must also be completely dry to prevent the mixture from setting prematurely and looking uneven.
What will you need?
Pressure washer-, weed- and frost-resistant, this polymeric sand creates long-lasting joints and can be used by both professionals and DIYers.
Made from FSC-certified wood, this outdoor broom is ideal for applying polymeric sand as well as tidying up garden debris.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of polymeric sand?
Before you commit to installing polymeric sand, it’s worth considering the pros and cons, as Andy McLaughlin explains below:
pros
- Helps prevent weed growth in joints
- Clean look
- Not as easily washed as kiln-dried sand
- Good joint stability
- You can buy impervious-grade options (meaning they adhere to Surface water drainage regulations)
- Cheaper than bound jointing systems
opposition
- Weed is not a free solution
- May crack over time
- More expensive than kiln dry sand
How long will polymeric sand last?
While the answer to this question depends on the base, climate and traffic, Luke Clark, owner Britannia StoneOn a good base in a mild climate, polymeric sand can last about eight to ten years before needing to be redone, he says. However, if there are harsh winters and heavy use, you may be looking at redoing it every three to five years.
“It breaks down over time with frost, rain and normal wear and tear, so you have to maintain it. It’s not a job every year, but you want to look at the joints once or twice a year and top up wherever they’ve gone. It’s worth resealing the surface every few years to protect the sand,” he adds.
Luke Clarke is the owner of Britannia Stone, a family-run restoration and stone yard based in Sheffield.
After talking to experts, it is clear that polymeric sand is a strong choice for joints, due to its affordable cost, ease of installation and durability.
If you need some inspiration, browse through our selection Modern driveway ideas Or read our practical guide How to design a patio.
