I haven't gotten a price yet on the techniseal, but the big box stores sell a $10, 30 square foot bag. Made of graded sand and binder, this highly reliable residential jointing sand flows smoothly into the joints and lets you install pavers quickly and efficiently. . Once Gator Tile Sand sets, it becomes very firm and locks between the porcelain tile joints while still retaining flexibility and providing a long lasting, durable jointing material. Stone dust for stone - Why and how to use it. This new generation of Intelligent Polymers neutralizes haze and dust. It is made from a mix of fine sand and various additives that become a powerful bonding agent when it comes into contact with water. Color: Beige and Slate Gray. . Choosing the correct type of sand is essential to seal the pavers and ensure that they are laid firmly so that the structure lasts longer. #3. Durability is a major selling point for pavers, and employing polymeric sand will just extend the lifespan and stability and resilience of your project. Water Permeability. Polymeric sand was first introduced to the hardscaping industry about a dozen years ago, and we at Stonehenge started using it as soon as it was available in this market. (5 mm) to a maximum 2 in. Builder’s sand is the most common replacement for polymeric sand, and it is easy to access and. Lay down a Gator Fabric GF4. 9. Rigid and Flex Edging. Mortar is absolutely the stronger and longer-lasting of the two. 3. Step 2: Gather Your Materials. Ideal for. The installation methods for the polymeric sands and Nitro Joint Sand mix are almost identical to regular paver joint sand except for the application of water. However,. Paver Joint Sand vs. For smaller-duty installations, Techniseal offers paver experts a cost-effective alternative. All 3 of them use polymeric sand for the finish sweep. Description. Get it now on Amazon. Button. Can be installed rain or shine. Coverage : For narrow joint installations, one 22. The injected chemical material, predominantly polymer, bonds. The polymeric sand application is now dust free, haze free, no blower needed, requiring only one watering and offering a Rapid Set technology of rain safe after 15 minutes. How to use polymeric sand: Don’t cheap out on sand. In most cases, the polymeric sand is completely set in twenty-four to forty-eight hours after activation. The cement begins to bond with the polymers in the sand, and the exclusive formula does the rest. Instead, a mock-up installation is recommended to determine the quantity required. Activate the sand by lightly showering the pavers with water according to the manufacturer’s directions. It’s sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand, or. Polymeric sand relies on the activation of a polymer binder to harden and create a solid joint. Simply sweep between pavers and mist with water. In applications that have larger, natural stones with irregular contours, it can be difficult to create. PRODUCT LIST. This polymeric sand comes in beige, slate gray, ivory, and black. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. Gator Nitro Jointing Sand is a ready-to-use mixture of calibrated sand and resins which cure when exposed to air, hardening from top to bottom of the joint. Gibson, Shutterstock. Sweep off excess SUPERSAND BOND polymeric sand from the paved surface, first with a hard-bristle broom, then a soft bristle broom. GATOR MAXX G2 is recommended for a variety of uses including pool decks, patios, footpaths, driveways. When mixed with water, it forms a strong binding agent that can be used to fill spaces between pavers, tiles, and more. SUPERSAND G2 is made with a state-of-the-art manufacturing process. Rated 1 out of 5 by Shannon from Might as well be ant food This stuff might as well be ant food. . 1. The contractor used stone pavers as a retaining wall due to my yard being sloped. Besides that, its versatility, low dry time, and durability make it a very attractive option. If you are a hardscape contractor, it's likely you've had issues with poly sand over the last year or so. • Compact sand into joint spaces as thoroughly as possible. Here are the top 4 benefits of polymeric sand: Stronger Bond – Polymeric sand provides a stronger bond between pavers than regular jointing sand, helping to prevent weed growth, shifting, cracking, and other issues associated with the poor paver installation. 2. 4. Durability. Stone dust traps and retains moisture which causes polymeric sand to fail. The joint paver sand must be considered as this will allow the hardscape to be durable, resilient, and stable; plus, this extends the lifespan too. Especially grade level cement. The gap is too big for polymeric sand alone. 3. Model # SN264189 Store SKU # 1000144920. Now that we know what makes them similar, let’s figure out what makes Easy Joint and polymeric sand. A single panel is equivalent to 130 kg (288 lb) of crushed stone, saving you a minimum of 6″ (15 cm) of. Polymeric sand offers stabilized (hardened) sand joints once its activated with water. Use for installing new pavers and replacing existing joints. The minimum joint depth is 1”. Ceramic Flex Polymeric Sand for Perfect Patio Joints. The installation methods for the polymeric sands and Nitro Joint Sand mix are almost identical to regular paver joint sand except for the application of water. Key point with polymeric sand is to clean the pavers of it so it is only in the gaps. It’s is a great fit for hardscape contractors who prefer using mortar over polymeric sand. Alliance Designer Products on LinkedIn: Gator Nitro vs. Now, using a coarse bristled broom, you’ll sweep the sand across the installation. UNDER-WATERING causes the polymeric sand to simply form a "crust" on the top. What applications make the best fit? Gator Nitro Sand is a great fit for hardscape contractors and masons who prefer using mortar over polymeric sand. (50 mm) joint width. In 1999, Techniseal launched the first-ever polymeric sand for paver jointing. Step 2. Block paving is tighter than 3mm as a rule, another thing is my slabs were laid on wet mortar so stay put. Even though SmartSand offers lesser jointing performances, this poly sand is more than. Poly sand needs to go the full depth of the paver, or close to it. It is more flexible than fine dry sweeping sand but should not be used in driveways. One major advantage of polymeric sand is when applied properly, it can last up to 10 years. The minimum joint depth is 1”. Regular sand can also last long but will require adjustments every 2 years so that the pavement doesn't shift. Durability. PRODUCT LIST. #3 · May 25, 2018. ) Note that this product's coverage power can vary depending on the type of paver used. 2. •••. Installing polymeric sand is the final step in your paver project and should be installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the longevity. A polymeric sand would potentially not work as well because it needs to completely dry in order to fully cure. Product Details. I still don't know for sure, but I think I am leaning towards the sand. The polymeric sand application is now dust free and haze free. Polymeric sand is best used on joints with gaps between an eighth of an inch to four inches. And although it is not completely waterproof, it can hold its structure by firming up when completely dry. Simply install the pavers, get rid of the excess sand, and spray down the pavers with water. But if you have irregular gaps for your. 7/8. Nitro is admittedly new and hot right now, but is it right for every job? Come learn when to use Nitro and when you’re better off sticking with polymeric sand for your hardscape jointing. Poly is the best thing that ever happen to pavers, my biggest gripe about selling pavers to people are weeds grow in the joints, been using poly for 6 years with 99. Grey. Description. 1. As the sand particles fuse, the joint between two patio pavers becomes impenetrable and the pavers are locked in place. Easier Paver Patios. I am not permitted to post links - but please Google or use website below. It doesn't have additives that can form a binding agent when meet with water. Polymeric sand is made mainly out of sand, silica, quartz, and other materials, whereas mortar is made primarily out of cement, lime, and sand. Polymeric sand comes in various colors. The product can be installed in wet or dry weather, in joints ranging from a minimum 3/16” to a maximum 2” joint width. Buy On Amazon Buy On Walmart. For a more permanent fix, use asphalt patching material with the sand to fill the cracks. 2. To read more installation tips for Nitro, visit the Alliance Gator Blog. The advantages of using polymeric sand for paving mostly revolve around its strength and durability as a joint filler. Polymeric Sand Uses for Paver. On the other hand, if the joint is too wide, the polymeric sand will easily lead to a washout during activation because there is too much water on the surface. The installation of the polymeric sand GATOR MAXX SAND is almost identical to using regular paver joint sand except for the application of water. No, polymeric sand does not harden in the same way that concrete does. PRODUCT LIST. @DanielWoodward Yes, that's a valid point -- polymeric sand is usually for joints of a certain width. Nitro Sand Best Practices. Unlike most other polymeric sand formulas on the market, Flexlock Ultra G2 Sand requires just one watering to fully activate. Stays Clean from weed or insect infestation. 1. WetLok™ can be used from a 3/16” (0. 7cm) joint. It could also emphasize the tone for gray bricks and stones. Product Details. Enviromom writes that, unlike other filling products, polymeric sand is a human-made product and is a combination of fine sand particles and binding agents such as silica. Product Details. These colors complement red pavers and create a harmonious, natural-looking finish. The polymeric sand stands up better to point loads within the joints and resists “washout,” when compared to traditional sand swept joints. PowerLoc Jointing Sand into the joints and mist with water; the product hardens, locking the pavers into place. Silica sand is the type of sand most often used in swimming pools and playgrounds. For these types of applications, polymeric sand would be the best choice! Polymeric Sand vs. Pros of polymeric sand. For wider gaps, you. Homeowners don’t need to replace polymeric sand continuously. Out of these three main ingredients, the first two make up approximately 85-95% of the product by volume. What’s the difference between Nitro and polymeric sands? Nitro is new, catchy, and hardens like mortar, but is it right for every job? Come learn when to use Nitro and when you’re better off sticking with polymeric sands for your jointing needs. Made with fine sand and a cement free formula to aid in easy installation but is. 1. Our HP Nextgel Polymeric Jointing Sand offers unsurpassed joint stabilization, even in high humidity areas, sloping terrain, and high vehicular traffic regions. Polymeric Sand: The 5 Main DifferencesThe easy-to-find, most affordable sand is regular dry sand. Biogenic/ Bio-organic Sand: Sand who’s makeup is largely from coral, shells and the skeletons of marine life. Silica sand has 95 percent or more silicon dioxide as its main component. Specifically, calibrated sand is mixed with sophisticated intelligent polymers. It is sometimes called jointing sand, paver sand or hardscape sand. Proprietary formula with stronger resins and quick-activating catalysts delivers: 25% More strength; 25% Faster setting time; Colors. Using polymeric sand instead of its regular counterpart saves homeowners time, money, and effort. (5 mm) to a maximum 2 in. 0. Polymeric Sand Horror Stories - How To Not Fall Victim! Play Video. Ideal for Description. Polymeric sand is water activated and hardens after curing. In smaller areas, pour in more from a clean yogurt cup and use a hand broom. This will justify the reason behind choosing it for this purpose for sure. cmirrer Discussion starter. For any hardscaping project to bear fruit, it must last a long time. The Patio is Bluestone natural cleft with 4 different sizes in the pattern and half inch grout joints. Optimal performances in high-humidity environments, heavy vehicular trafic areas and steeper terrain. Coated with a water-activated polymer, polymeric sand bonds together when exposed to moisture, keeping the sand from washing away or blowing out of the joints. As such, paver joints filled with polymeric sand are more impenetrable compared to joints filled with regular sand. STEP 5. For these jobs, polymeric dust would be the ideal product to use. Both are going to cost the same price for installation, so it’s simply a preference. Specifically, calibrated sand is mixed with sophisticated intelligent polymers. POLYMERIC SAND: THE 5 MAIN DIFFERENCES. 5. Easy to remove: when the time for reinstallation comes, you can wash. This polymeric sand consists of a 10: 1 ratio of polymer and sand to form a strong and unbreakable substance for filling and mending hard surfaces. Gator Nitro Joint Sand is a ready-to-use mixture of calibrated sand and resins which cure when exposed to air, hardening from top to bottom of the joint. Colors. Polymeric sand is basically 85% to 90% sand and some sort of cement (either portland or organic). How to install Gator Maxx G2 polymeric sand. In 1999, Techniseal launched the first-ever polymeric sand for paver jointing. Another similarity shared by both polymeric sand and silica sand is that they are both extremely fine. Note: Polymeric sand is intended to be a cohesive joint material and do three things: help prevent weeds, insects and erosion. It will chip and break away. The minimum joint depth is 1”. Find My Store. Gator Base. Unlike the natural sand tone, the taupe color for your polymeric sand brings a warmer shade. Convert the volume to cubic yards if needed. A paver installation should be performed to ICPI specifications, i. When using irregularly shaped natural stone paving blocks, such as travertine blocks, some of the. SUPERSAND G2 is made with a state-of-the-art manufacturing process. Polymeric sand is essentially a sandy, granular material that is used within the joints and cracks between pavers to interlock the units and preserve the integrity and beauty of the stone pavers. Determine the thickness of the sand layer (usually around 1 inch) and calculate the volume in cubic feet. You could mix concrete with polymeric sand and that should hold nicely but I don't think it will look that appealing. Gator Base. 22. k. Regular sand will need a touch-up every couple of years, while touch-ups for polymeric sand would only be once every decade. The most common type of sand for paver joints is silica sand. I just plan to buy a rool of that 1/2" x 4 inch white foam and cut it down to 2" and stuff it into the joint, its 1/4" - 3/8" wide and 2 3/8" deep (the depth of. 7/8. Finally, it is resistant to pests and bug infestation. Always use cold water because warm water can warp the polymeric sand. Get it now on Amazon. 10 Pound Titanium Gray DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand with Revolutionary Ceramic Flex Technology for Stabilizing Paver Joints/Gaps, 1/8” up to 4”, Professional Grade Results. Silica is such as an additive and is often used to help lock the fine sand particles together. After removing all the old joint sand. For a more solidified joint, polymeric sand is used which contains the same sand but with binders included into the mix which will react with moisture to form a solid erosion proof joint As the. The 4 Polymeric Sand Alternatives. It can become soft when mixed with sand to fill in joints. 2. The key to successfully using polymeric sand on a hybrid base is two-fold. The minimum joint depth is 1 in. Polymeric doesn't bring anything to the table. Settle the sand by compacting with a hand and/or plate tamper (with rubber pad to protect pavers). Its high. Weatherproof – Unlike regular jointing sand, which can be washed away by. The product can be. Play Video. . Any tough to remove hardened areas, may require mechanical means to clean the joint. It’s recommended for both commercial and residential projects and can be safely used for paving stone joints of up to 2. Polymeric sand is a blend of refined grains and a binding agent that, when combined with a little amount of water, sets to create a strong sealant everywhere in the paver joints. The minimum joint depth is 1 in. Polymeric sand is a thin sand that when combined with additives and water forms a binding agent. Grey. However, you should think carefully about the long-term benefits; polymeric sand may cost more initially but add up. Gator Tile Sand is a unique mixture of polymer binders and calibrated sand available in Beige, Slate Grey, Ivory and Black Diamond. Polymeric sand is so durable that it can actually be power washed, with care. Always refer to the latest GATOR NITRO JOINT SAND Technical Data Sheet (TDS) at AllianceGator. Step 2: Now you have to take the biggest challenge on your way to installing polymeric sand. Sweep off excess POLYBIND SAND G2 from the paved surface, first with a hard-bristle broom, then a soft-bristle broom. Our Pick. However, you should think carefully about the long-term benefits; polymeric sand may cost more initially but add up to. Multiple factors make it such, but the low and affordable price is a huge reason for this. The product can be installed in wet or dry weather, in joints ranging from a minimum 3/16” to a maximum 2” joint width. #4. 5 pounds per square foot for narrow paver gaps. **Nitro Sand should never be stored in direct sunlight or exposed to heat above 120. Gator Jointing Material:Polymeric Sands, Dust and others. Jointing Sand. The dust that can be found is of natural source and comes exclusively from the sand. Multiply the length by the width to get the square footage. Next is silica sand. The 2020 Show Season Has Officially Begun. The product can be installed in wet or dry weather, in joints ranging from a minimum 3/16” (5 mm) to a maximum 2” (50 mm) joint width. What’s the difference between Gator Nitro and polymeric sand? Nitro is admittedly new and hot right now, but is it right for every job? Come learn when to use Nitro and when you’re better off sticking with polymeric sand for. The minimum joint depth is 1”. Keep repeating this step as. Dry joint sand will allow the product to properly soak into the joint for proper stabilization. 7 kg bag can cover up to 11 m2 (120 sq. STEP 1: SPREAD. Benefits of Regular Sand. SEK’s PolySweep is made with a blend of native sands conforming to the ASTM 144 standard, and polymer binders that allows the joints to expandCheck out our EZ joint sand compound, perfect for all your projects. SUPERSAND G2 is. ft. The chemical sand consolidation methods involve pumping of chemical materials, like furan resin and silicate non-polymer materials into unconsolidated sandstone formations, in order to minimize sand production with the fluids produced from the hydrocarbon reservoirs. The minimum joint depth is 1”. The minimum joint depth is 1”. Polymeric sand is a semi-permeable sand that contains additives and binding agents to lock paver joints into place. Doubling Down On Gator Base Efficiencies. And just like Super Sand Bond, this product is formulated with our New Advanced Haze Free Technology and comes backed by our 15 year limited warranty. 6. Crystalline silica. Polymeric sand is not intended to be a replacement for. The polymer is more susceptible to leaching which happens. Polymeric sand has come a long way since its inception in the early 2000s and is a quality product for a jointing compound these days. Polymeric sand is a material used to fill the paver joints, which are the empty spaces between each paver. Gibson, Shutterstock. Once all the paver are in place, use a leaf blower to remove any dust and debris from the installation. The challenge is to avoid staining. Date published: 2018-09-09. Updated on March 1, 2023 by Anton Giuroiu. Polymeric dust is simply polymeric sand that has been crushed down to very fine particle size. Regular Sand: Understanding the Difference — North Valley Stone Supply LLC Sand is a critical component to creating inviting and durable. Play Video. STEP 5. In smaller areas, pour in more from a clean yogurt cup and use. The initial drying of polymeric sand is an important factor for its long term durability that tends to indicate its longevity later on. Our new Gator Nitro is very different from polymeric sand. Although polymeric sand is very durable, mortar is simply more so. How to install Gator Supersand G2 polymeric sand. Easy step by step application of polymeric sand for your pavers so you end up with a beautiful professional looking finish on your pavers! (Product used spe. FLEXLOCK SAND is a unique mixture of polymer binders and calibrated sand available in Sandy Beige and Graphite Grey. It has exceptional joint stabilizing properties, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as patios, pool decks, pavements, parking lots, and driveways. 0. Polymeric dust is generally used in irregular flagstone installations where the joints are wider and varied. Minimum joint width: 1/16” Maximum joint width: 4”*The blue stone was laid on a dry base which consisted of four to six inches of minus compacted, with about a half inch of sand and then the stones. GATOR NITRO OINT SAND eo ate : 08032023 Page 3 of 7 PREPARATION INFORMATION (IMPORTANT NOTES) A. Polymeric sand is primarily used to fill the joints between pavers, rock, stone and other outdoor elements. You must use the right type of aggregate and you must compact that sand until it chokes. Always refer to the latest GATOR NITRO JOINT SAND Technical Data Sheet (TDS) at AllianceGator. A single panel is equivalent to 130 kg (288 lb) of crushed stone, saving you a minimum of 6″ (15 cm) of. 55 when you choose 5% savings on eligible purchases every day. Note: Polymeric sand is intended to. Easy Mix Paver Bond Polymeric Sand is a blend of kiln-dried fine sand and a gelling agent formulated to create a cohesive joint between pavers. This method of installing the polymeric sand can be applied to almost any paver a. Polymeric sand will eventually crack, thus allowing weeds to grow through. Polymeric sand actually cures via drying, whereas Easy Joint cures through a chemical reaction with oxygen. NanoPave JSS creates a strong, durable bond in common sand or crushed stone jointing materials for joints up to 4 in. If there is a recommended brand for polymeric sand (grey), please provide it -- the reviews for the Polymeric sand at my local big store stink. Polymeric sand, once activated, forms a stronger binding agent compared to regular sand. STEP 5. While a 50-pound bag of ordinary sand costs $2 to $4, its polymeric equivalent can range from $20 to $40. How to. If applied properly, the binding agent in the sand will harden in the joints and completely prevent weeds and ants from causing cracks in the surface. It is a mix of sand and special additives and is usually made of quartz, granite, marble or other similar materials. The product can be installed in wet or dry weather, in joints ranging from a minimum 3/16” to a maximum 2” joint width. This Buddingco polymeric sand in beige is a unique blend of calibrated sand and polymer binders and comes in an 18lb pack. Helps prevent weed sprouting and damage caused by insects. 8 out of 5 stars. The Flexlock Ultra G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand formula offers a hassle-free application that’s simple enough for even inexperienced DIYers. Edges and fasteners. It is often called polymeric sand because of the chemical binder that is. The weather forecast is an important factor in the installing of polymeric sand. No blower is needed and the intelligent polymeric sand requires only one watering. Nitro vs Traditional Poly Sand Stronger Isn't Always Better. This then secures the sand in place. ft. 2. For hardscape projects that matter, PolySweep is the only choice that delivers solid performance and value. four varieties for varying gap sizes. Convert the volume to cubic yards if needed. Exactly how fine stone dust is, however, depends on the exact stone dust you get, as some may be finer than others. When using multiple size pavers for a project, calculate and enter the average length and width in the Simplified Sand Calculator. The hardened joints resisted weeds, ants couldn’t tear it up to. Silica sand is slightly better. POLYMERIC SAND: THE 5 MAIN DIFFERENCES. EZ Sand Techniseal polymer sand prevents weed growth, repels ants and other insect infestations. Sakrete Paver Set. Once GATOR MAXX SAND sets, it becomes very firm and locks between the paver joints. In the case of polymers it is the repetition of monomer units (Styrene, ethylene, glycol, etc. Polymeric sand. Description. Spread polymeric sand in sections. Polymeric sand is applied at the end, as a final step of the installation. Plastic detritus from all sorts of trash sources (either originally microparticles such as in body washes or. Wider joints will reduce overall coverage. Polymeric sand is primarily designed to fill narrow gaps between pavers or stones, typically up to a maximum of 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6 to 13 mm) wide. Use a squeegee or soft bristle push broom to move the jointing compound around the surface and water to move the compound to the bottom of the paver joint. If you’re using G2 Maxx in Beige, Ivory, or Slate Grey, one 50 lb. Pavers are 2" thick. This type of sand often comes into play at the end of a landscape paving. To start the curing process, initially water is needed but later on its presence is harmful for the polymeric sand. (63) Questions & Answers (18) Locks pavers into place. Rinse any remaining jointing compound off of the surface. Add to cart. Polymeric Sand: The 5 Main Differences The easy-to-find, most affordable sand is regular dry sand. In smaller areas, pour in. Polymeric sand is commonly used to fill the gaps between pavers or stones, but it can pose a potential risk to dogs. Gator Nitro Joint Sand is a ready-to-use mixture of calibrated sand and resins which cure when exposed to air, hardening from top to bottom of the joint *. Thus, the most suitable pressure for cleaning pavers is the medium range (From 1600 to 2000 PSI). After curing, a strong andPrimary Ingredient. Play Video. Ideal for joints up to 4mm in width. The weather in your area and the location of the pavers also play roles in longevity. Kinetic Sand is a magical mixture of 98% sand and 2% polymer, or what we like to call magic. Eliminates joint erosion - water, frost heaving, wind, power washing, etc. Silica is such as an additive and is often used to help lock the fine sand particles together. Step 1. Alliance Gator Maxx G2 Intelligent Polymeric Sand for Paver. Gator Nitro Joint Sand is a ready-to-use mixture of calibrated sand and resins which cure when exposed to air, hardening from top to bottom of the joint *. Kiln dried sand flows freely to deeply penetrate and fill the void between pavers. Use a push broom to spread it and the. The Hardscaper's Pledge. The answer is polymeric sand is better for locking the joints, and regular sand/concrete sand is better for bedding. So I googled sand vs. Ideal forNitro vs. Polymeric sand, on the other hand, contains polymer-coated particles that bind together when water is added. DOMINATOR ® Polymeric Sand uses revolutionary “Ceramic Flex” technology to bring you the most advanced polymeric sand available. STEP 3. That process will give you the best long term patio. Quikrete. Once the polymeric sand is set, it will not wash out from the joints like the regular masonry sand. jointing sand for a fast, clean, durable and profitable installation. If a polymeric sand is too hard, it can also make it too brittle, causing cracking from ground movement. 21. What applications make the best fit? Gator Nitro Sand is a great fit for hardscape contractors and masons who prefer using mortar over polymeric sand. Read page 2 of our customer reviews for more information on the Quikrete 50 lb. 9 kg | 35 lbs (bag) 40. What’s the difference between Nitro and polymeric sands? Nitro is new, catchy, and hardens like mortar, but is it right for every job? Come learn when to use Nitro and when you’re. Step 1. 7 kg | 50 lbs (bag) 56. Gator Nitro Joint Sand Gator Nitro Joint Sand is a ready-to-use mixture of calibrated sand and resins which cure when exposed to air, hardening from top to bottom of the joint. Masonry sand. Durability and Longevity. 1. It leaves a classic warm beige touch, perfect for beige to orange shades of bricks. Another major difference here is of course that polymeric sand is only used in between joints, whereas joint stabilizing sealer is also applied to the pavers themselves. Builder’s Sand. GATOR NITRO VS. Silica sand consists mainly of silica, whereas polymeric sand only has a small amount of silica used as an additive.