5 Best Polymeric Sands of 2024 | Reviews + Guide

Are you in the market for the best polymeric sand? Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, you’ll want the best polymeric sand for your project. Polymeric sand is an advanced form of sand that binds together when wet and is designed to keep pavers in place and prevent weeds and ants from entering the joints.

As garden soil is ubiquitous to gardening, polymer sand is to interlocking pavers. To maintain the charm of your concrete paver patio, it’s important to fill the joints with polymeric sand. While it may not seem difficult, choosing the right product is no less than a challenge. To save you from the hassle, I’ve reviewed the 5 best polymeric sand that is worth considering for your paver projects. So, without any delays, let's get to it, shall we?

Listed below are the best polymeric sands:

• DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand: DOMINATOR polymeric sand is the top choice for professional use due to its ceramic flex technology and strength. Its 48-hour curing time is ideal for projects requiring a longer-setting time, unlike Rhino polymeric sand, which sets within an hour. Incorrect watering could harm its integrity.
• Alliance Gator Maxx Intelligent Polymeric Sand: A high-quality polymeric sand that's prized for preventing erosion and insect damage, setting within 15 minutes post-application, quicker than DOMINATOR. Its robust ASTM C144 gradation suits tight joints. The high cost may be a deterrent.
• BuddingCo Polymeric Sand: The BuddingCo polymeric sand is the best choice for stabilizing stone paver joints due to its special blend of sand and polymer binders. Additional purchases may be required for larger tasks as it can only cover up to 40 sq ft compared to the larger 85 sq ft of Alliance Gator Maxx.
• Rhino Power Bond Plus Polymeric Sand: The Rhino polymeric sand is known for stone joint sealing and becomes rain-safe within an hour, more quickly than DOMINATOR's 48-hour cure time. It can't be applied where temperatures fall below 32°F.
• ConSANDtrate Polymeric Sand Concentrate: ConSANDtrate polymeric sand stands out with its weather resistance and customizability. Unlike BuddingCo, which is only available in one size, ConSANDtrate can be mixed to suit various needs. Improper blending can lead to chunkiness.

1. DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand -  Best for Professional Use

Sold in a 40-pound packet, the DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand sits atop my list because of its strength and flexibility. Powered with ceramic flex technology, a technology found only in the most advanced polymeric sands, it’s a blend of polymers of fine sand. 

What I particularly like is it is formulated without cement, allowing easy application. All you need to do is spread a generous amount of the jointing sand on the surface and sweep it to fill the joints properly. 

Again, you will have to use a broom or a leaf blower to sweep off the excess sand from the surface and water the particles with a spray nozzle. Remember that both under-watering and over-watering can inhibit the integrity of the sand– so hiring professionals would be the best bet if you’re not confident in your DIY skills.

As the sand particles are small, this joint sand is versatile and works well for sealing both tight joints and wider joints. Besides easy application, the solid flex technology allows this paver sand to flex without affecting its durability. That means it will soften but stay in place firmly when exposed to water. 

As for curing, this polymeric sand takes about 48 hours to cure fully, provided the temperature is above 50°F. Coming in an easy-pour bag, it has a long shelf life -  you can store it in a tight container and use it later. 

Also, it’s available in various colors and sizes, so make your pick carefully. 

2. Alliance Gator Maxx Intelligent Polymeric Sand - Best for Preventing Erosion & Damage Caused by Insect Infestation

Available in slate gray and beige colors, the Alliance Gator Maxx Intelligent Polymeric Sand is firm yet flexible, so you can rest assured that it’s highly durable. Like most other poly sands, it features a unique blend of calibrated sand and polymer binders, effective in sealing joints as wide as 4 inches. 

When it comes to application, it is quite similar to regular sand, except that you’ll need water to set it between the joints. Irrespective of whether you’re a weekend warrior or a novice DIYer, you won’t face trouble using this polymeric sand. 

What’s more, this polymeric sand meets the ASTM C144 gradation, meaning it’s suitable for tight joints. This sand is also OSHA crystalline silica compliant, so it prevents the growth of weeds and the damage caused by insect infestation. 

Additionally, it inhibits erosion caused by freeze or thaw cycles, rain, and wind, which is another feature I like about this polymeric sand. 

This poly sand (haze-free) is also powered with rapid set technology, which is why it becomes rain set within 15 minutes of application. You can use this polymer sand all year round– be it summer, winter, or monsoon. 

Another feature that appealed to me about this polymeric sand is that it is a dust-free and blower-free formula. That means you can skip your dust mask when applying it to seal the joints. 

The Gator Maxx polymeric sand is suitable for a variety of uses, including false paver joints, overlay or non-overlay, and residential and commercial applications. That said, this polymeric sand is slightly pricey, so be prepared to shell out a few bucks more. 

3. BuddingCo Polymeric Sand - Best Joint Stabilizing Sand for Stone Pavers

Featuring a unique blend of calibrated sand and polymer binders, the BuddingCo Polymeric Sand is similar to regular paver joint sand in terms of application. 

Spread it over a dry surface, sweep it, and spray water to set the sand firmly between the joint width and allow it to dry. Once this sand sets, it will create a durable jointing material while remaining flexible. 

What makes the BuddingCo Polymeric Sand one of the best polymeric sands is its versatility, as it’s usable on a variety of surfaces. Besides paver projects, you can use it on the pavement (architecture), parking space, driveway, walkway, patio, and pool deck of your property.  

Available in an 18 lbs. bucket, this polymeric sand covers up to 30 to 40 square feet, which makes it a viable option for a single paver project. That means you will have to order more buckets for larger or multiple projects. 

That’s not all; you can use this sand on false joint pavers, unlike other polymeric sands. And aside from the outdoors, this sand even seals gaps or cracks indoors. 

Moreover, this polymeric sand sets at 32°F or above freezing temperatures, so you can set your driveways even in winter. Interestingly, this long-lasting and highly durable sand prevents erosion due to freeze-thaw cycles, wind, and rain. 

Over and above that, this sandy soil is powered with rapid set technology, so it becomes rain-safe after 15 minutes of application. And available in multiple colors, this polymeric sand is OSHA-compliant and ASTM C-144, meaning it is safe for use. 

4. Rhino Power Bond Plus Polymeric Sand – Best for Stone Joints

The Rhino Power Bond Plus Polymeric Sand is yet another product that you can consider for your DIY sealing projects. 

Coming with professional-grade Loc-King technology, this polymeric sand keeps weeds out of the joints by staying firmly in place. In addition to that is the haze-free technology that makes it rainfast within an hour of application. 

Its ability to fight every weather condition is what made me include this polymeric sand on this list. Be it excessive sunshine, snow, or rain, Rhino Power Bond Plus can withstand the rigors of nature. And that is what makes it a great choice for stone joints, paver joints, and other surfaces. 

Walkways, driveways, or around a pool–this polymeric sand is usable in a variety of areas. Other than that, you can use it with wet cast-based pavers and concrete pavers. 

Before installing polymeric sand, just make sure that the surface is completely dry, or it won’t adhere properly. After sweeping the sand in the cracks and gaps, blow off the excess and activate the polymers by misting the surface. 

One bucket of this polymeric sand is about 20 pounds and can cover up to 20 to 40 square feet for up to 2 inches of wide joints. However, you can go for the 50-pound bucket if you need this polymeric sand for large projects. 

What’s more, the brand supplies this sand in four colors– slate gray, beige, ivory, and black diamond. One thing I’d like to bring to your attention is that this sand shouldn’t be applied to places where the temperatures are below 32 degrees F. 

5. ConSANDtrate Polymeric Sand Concentrate – Best Weather-resistant Sand

My last recommendation is the ConSANDtrate Polymeric Sand Concentrate, which comes in a 20-pound package. 

Featuring a specific blend of polymers, this poly sand can be mixed with regular sand at a ratio of 10:1. Meaning, you will have to mix 10 parts of regular sand with one part of ConSANDtrate sand for a more concentrated polymeric. 

Not just colors, but you can also mix custom colors with this poly sand, which isn’t the case with other polymeric sands. 

Applying polymeric sand in joints between paver stones and slabs is easy. First off, you will have to fill the joints with sand and level them with a stiff brush by sweeping them down. Next, use a paintbrush or a blower set to clean away residue from the joints. 

Thereafter, spray water on the filled joint using a garden hose at least 3 times at 10-minute intervals.

Paver joints, flat rock, and hardscape– you can use polymeric sand from ConSANDtrate for a variety of projects. Not only that, but it can also be used as a crack filler for exposed or concrete aggregate slabs. 

As for the color, this polymeric sand comes in gray, but since it is tintable, you can use it on any surface by mixing it with whichever you want. 

All things aside, you’ll be pleased to know that this polymeric sand is weather-resistant, meaning it can withstand harsh rain and severe cold easily. Like the previous product, it prevents weeds from growing between the joints. 

Note that it may become chunky if you don’t mix this polymeric sand with regular sand properly. 

What is the Best Polymeric Sand?

If you're seeking the finest and the best polymeric sand, listed below is a table that compares weight measured in pounds, color, coverage area measured in square feet, and working temperature in Fahrenheit.

Buying Guide for the Best Polymeric Sand

Using the right polymeric sand in your paver project can impart a professional look to your pavers or whichever surface you use it on. 

Through trial and error, I’ve learned the factors one must consider when choosing polymeric sand for their projects– and this section discusses just that. I’ve put together a list of all the important factors that you need to keep in mind when ordering poly sand for your paver or other outdoor projects. 

Let’s discuss that in detail. 

Size of the Joint

Before you order a pack of polymeric sand, you must take into account the size of the joint you need to fill with it. Most polymeric sand manufacturers sell sand for wide joints, while others manufacture them for filling tight joints. 

For fieldstone patios or paver projects that have large joints, you will have to opt for ones that are made for sealing wide joints. That’s because they would create a strong barrier after settling in the gaps. Not only that, but they will also seal oil the elements better than others. 

Color

By now, you know that polymeric sand comes in different colors– beige, gray, brown, ivory, and others. 

So, you will have to order and similar in color to the surface where you intend to apply it. Some polymeric sands are tintable, meaning you can mix dry pigments of your preferred color and apply them to the surface to complement your pavers. 

Curing Time

Another important aspect that you need to consider when using polymer sand is the curing time. Most polymeric sands come with a drying time of 24 hours, while others take 48 hours to cure fully. 

If you go for those that take 24 hours to dry, your surface will be ready for use the next day of application. On the other hand, you will have to wait for 2 days to use the surface if you opt for poly sands that take 48 hours to cure fully. 

However, keep in mind that the weather plays an important role in determining the drying time of the sand. That is to say, the sand is likely to dry more quickly if the weather is hot than if the weather is cold. 

And if you’re in a hurry, opt for polymeric sand that is powered with rapid set technology because it sets within 15 minutes of application. So, even if it rains after application, the sand won’t be washed away with water. 

Further, you can also check out our article on how to apply polymeric sand to gain more on this particular topic.

Resistance

Since you’ll be using polymeric sands for sealing outdoor surfaces, it is important to choose a highly durable product. 

For your paver project, go for polymeric sand that shows excellent resistance to weather, so the natural elements won’t tamper with its binder (material). It should also be water-resistant, so it doesn’t get washed away from the joints when exposed to water. 

Additionally, I’ll suggest going for polymeric sands that are blower-free, dust-free, and haze-free. 

Price

Polymeric sands are sold by various manufacturers at different prices. Some sell them at reasonable prices, while others sell their products at a slightly steep price. 

One thing to keep in mind is that not every expensive product is of high quality, and vice versa. Therefore, you must always weigh the price of the polymer sand with the quantity to figure out if it’s worth the money or not. 

Alternatively, you can look for customer reviews to find out if the product actually lives up to its claims or is simply a waste of money. 

Polymeric sand doesn’t come with exorbitant price tags, but still, I suggest preparing a budget before scouring for them. This way, you won’t overspend on your paver project.

Can I use regular sand instead of polymeric sand?

While you can use regular sand instead of polymeric sand for paver joints, it does not offer the same benefits. Polymeric sand contains binders that, when wet, bond the sand particles together and create a solid joint, preventing weed growth and insect intrusion. Regular sand does not have these properties, and joints filled with it are more prone to washout and less resistant to the aforementioned issues.

Is polymeric sand eco-friendly?

Polymeric sand is generally considered eco-friendly. It's usually made from quartz sand and select polymers, which don't tend to have a significant environmental impact. That being said, individual products might vary, so always consult the product's material safety data sheet or reach out to the manufacturer for specific environmental impact information.

Can I use polymeric sand with any type of pavers?

Yes, polymeric sand can be used with virtually any type of pavers, including concrete, brick, and stone. It's designed to fill and solidify the joints between pavers, enhancing their stability and preventing weed growth or insect issues. Always check the manufacturer's instructions for any specific requirements or recommendations.

Can I use polymeric sand for both narrow and wide joints?

Yes, polymeric sand can be used for both narrow and wide joints in pavers. Keep in mind that each product will have a recommended joint width range specified by the manufacturer. While it performs effectively in narrow and regular joints, for very wide joints other materials or a specific wide-joint polymeric sand may be required for optimal performance.

Can I remove and replace polymeric sand if I need to make changes?

Yes, polymeric sand can be removed and replaced if you need to make changes. This typically involves removing the old sand from the joints by using a power washer or a sharp tool, taking care not to damage the pavers. Once the joints are cleaned out, new polymeric sand can be applied and set according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How long does polymeric sand last?

Polymeric sand can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years when properly installed and maintained. Factors such as the quality of the sand, weather conditions, installation process, and usage can impact its longevity. For optimal durability, it's recommended to follow installation instructions carefully and consider periodic maintenance.

Polymeric sands provide an excellent solution for sealing and stabilizing paver joints, preventing weed growth, deterring insect infestation, and resisting erosion. They have become increasingly popular for different types of outdoor applications, ranging from pool decks and concrete pavers to driveways and walkways. With so many options available in the market, it is crucial to choose the right polymeric sand that suits your specific needs and requirements.

From the above 5 best polymeric sands, here are the top three expert recommendations:

Powered by ceramic flex technology, the DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand is an ideal option for its strength, flexibility, and easy application. It can handle tight joints and wider joints with ease, making it perfect for various outdoor surfaces.

Preventing erosion and damage from burrowing insects, the Alliance Gator Maxx Intelligent Polymeric Sand is a good option for those seeking durability and adaptability. Its haze-free, dust-free, and blower-free formula ensures a safe and easy application.

Offering joint stabilization and versatility, the BuddingCo Polymeric Sand is the right choice for projects ranging from pavements to driveways and patios. Its rapid set technology and OSHA compliance make it a reliable option for residential and commercial applications.

Thus, selecting the ideal polymeric sand for your project depends largely on your specific needs and the type of application. Evaluate your requirements carefully and choose a product that delivers the best results in terms of durability, flexibility, and ease of application. With the right polymeric sand, you can enhance the appearance and increase the longevity of your outdoor spaces.