Polymeric Sand vs Joint Sand: What to Use Between Your Pavers

The sand in the joints between pavers does real work: it locks the pavers together so they do not shift, and it keeps water, weeds and ants out. There are two main choices.

Regular joint sand

Fine, dry sand swept into the joints. It is inexpensive and easy to top up.

• Pros: low cost, simple to apply, easy to fix later.
• Cons: washes out with heavy rain and pressure washing, and lets weeds and ants in over time.
• Best for: budget projects, or when the pavers will be sealed with a joint stabilizing sealer that hardens the sand.

Polymeric sand

Sand mixed with binders that harden when wetted, forming a firm but flexible joint.

• Pros: resists washout, helps stop weeds and ants, gives a neat finished look.
• Cons: costs more and must be installed carefully. Mistakes leave a hazy film on the pavers that is hard to remove.
• Best for: patios, pool decks and walkways in Florida's heavy rain.

How to install polymeric sand the right way

• Start with clean, completely dry pavers and joints.
• Sweep the sand into the joints and compact it so it settles, then top up.
• Blow every grain of sand off the paver surface. Leftover sand turns into haze.
• Mist with water as the product directs, without flooding it.
• Keep it dry while it cures, as the label says.

Common mistakes

• Installing on damp pavers or before rain
• Leaving sand on the surface before wetting
• Too much water, which washes the binder out
• Joints that are too shallow, so the sand cracks

Which should you choose?

For most Florida patios and pool decks, polymeric sand is worth the extra cost. For a driveway that will be sealed with a joint stabilizing sealer, regular sand under the sealer can work well. A local pro can look at your pavers and recommend the right option.

Find a paver pro near you, or shop polymeric sand and joint sand in the CSI Store.