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Best appearance is achieved by eliminating all polymeric jointing sand from surfaces. A minimum of 24 hours drying time is required prior to allowing foot traffic and 48 hours for vehicular traffic on the paver surface.
Why is my polymeric sand not hardening?
Polymeric sand cures by drying. And in order to fully set, it needs to dry out completely. If your polymeric sand didn’t harden up, it’s pretty much guaranteed there’s a moisture issue. If the joints remain wet after the installation, they will remain soft until they dry.
How long does polymeric sand need to dry before rain?
In general, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after any significant rainfall to proceed with the installation of polymeric sand. Understandably, it is not recommended to lay jointing sand in the rain, or when precipitation are expected in the hours following your work.
What if it rains after applying polymeric sand?
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. After installation, a hard rain on polymeric sand that has not fully set up could result in polymeric sand all over the top of the pavers.
Does polymeric sand get soft when wet?
Unlike conventional sand it stays in place and remains stable. It softens when wet and firms up when dry to better resist soil movements. Because the sand gets stiff you can expect fewer weeds and less insect damage.
How long does it take for polymeric sand to harden?
A minimum of 24 hours drying time is required prior to allowing significant foot traffic and 48 hours for vehicular traffic on the paver surface. Polymeric sands are designed to soften and re-heal.
How do you harden polymeric sand?
As stated, polymeric sand will harden on contact with water. It will create a layer over the pavers’ surface, very difficult for you to remove in some cases. If the haze on the paver’s surface is thin, you are likely to be able to wash it off with hose water. Repeat the process if necessary.
How long will polymeric sand last?
Polymeric sand can last up to 10 years before replacement is necessary. However, certain manufacturers claim some products can last up to 15 years.
Can polymeric sand be reapplied?
Unfortunately with polymeric sand replacement, you can’t just uproot any weeds and top it up. You have to completely remove all the pre-existing sand in the joints and start fresh. Secondly, you will have to wait a day while the surface dries before you can reapply your new sand.
How long after polymeric sand can you seal pavers?
If us- ing polymeric sand, you can install it after the sealer application has properly cured for 24 – 48 hours. If polymeric sand is installed prior to sealing, be sure surface is dry for 24 hours before applying sealer.
How do you compact polymeric sand without a compactor?
How to Compact Pavers without a Plate Compactor Step 1: protective clothing. Ad. Step 2: prepare the substrate. Check the underground in the pit carefully. Step 3: create a layer of frost protection. Step 4: Build the base course. Step 5: Apply a layer of sand. Step 6: clean the vibrating plate.
Why is my polymeric sand bubbling?
Well, if the sand hasn’t washed out of the joints, you might be alright! Sand has spilled over onto the surface of the pavers, creating a hazy residue. Joints are bubbling or not hardening up after the recommended setting time.
When should you not use polymeric sand?
#6 – Too Narrow or Too Wide Joints The sand is simply pushed out of the joints. This is why we don’t recommend using polymeric sand on extremely narrow joints. Similarly, too-wide joints can lead to washout, because they allow too much water flow during the activation process.
Can you pressure wash polymeric sand?
Yes, you can use a pressure washer but strictly if necessary. If it’s not possible to remove the hardened polymeric sand after a few days washing the surface, then you can bring on the “big guns.” The essential when using pressure wash is not to remove the polymeric sand between the joints.
Is polymeric sand flexible?
Polymeric sand’s unique binding agent is flexible enough to maintain its structure over time, but will not yield to the elements. Polymeric sand will stand up to water especially well. There’s no need to worry that sand might wash out of the joints after heavy precipitation or even power-washing.
How often do you need to redo polymeric sand?
Polymeric sand lasts for 10 years. High-quality polymeric sand can last for 15 years. Installing polymeric sand the right way ensures that it lasts for a decade. Problems during the curing process can decrease its lifespan.
Does vinegar remove polymeric sand haze?
Poly Sand Haze Tips If poly sand haze has transpired on the surface, it must be cleaned with an acid-based cleaner. Sometimes vinegar can be used unless the poly sand haze is severe.
How permanent is polymeric sand?
Polymeric sand relies on a chemical reaction to harden it into the joints between your paving stones. Once it hardens, it is permanent.
How long does Gator dust take to harden?
Gator Dust requires 24 hours on a conventional drainage base, it is not for use on overlays.
How far does a bag of polymeric sand go?
When filling small gaps, a 50lb bag of polymeric sand will usually cover 75-100 ft2. When filling wide gaps of 1/4″ to 3/8″ a 50lb bag will usually cover 30-60 ft2.
How long should you wait before sealing pavers?
How long should new pavers cure before they are sealed for the first time? If using a non-film-forming paver sealant, wait one week before sealing. If using a film-forming sealant, wait 30 days to avoid trapping moisture under the protective barrier.
