What is polymer sand?
Polymeric sand is a type of joint sand used for filling gaps between pavers, flagstones, and other types of outdoor surfaces. It contains a mixture of sand and polymer additives, which bind together when activated by water to create a strong, durable joint. While polymeric sand is resistant to water and erosion, some people wonder if it can be sealed to provide even more protection. In this blog post, we will explore the question of whether you can seal polymeric sand.
Can you Seal the Polymeric Sand?
The short answer is yes, you can seal polymeric sand. However, it is important to understand the reasons why you may or may not want to do so. Sealing polymeric sand can provide several benefits, such as enhancing the color of the sand, preventing weed growth, and protecting the surface from stains and other types of damage. However, there are also some potential downsides to consider.
One of the main benefits of sealing polymeric sand is that it can enhance the color of the sand and make it more vibrant. This can be particularly useful if your pavers or outdoor surface have faded over time or if you want to give them a more polished look. Additionally, sealing polymeric sand can help to prevent weed growth between your pavers or outdoor surfaces, which can be unsightly and difficult to remove.
Another benefit of sealing polymeric sand is that it can provide an extra layer of protection against stains and other types of damage. This is particularly important if your outdoor surface is exposed to harsh weather conditions or heavy foot traffic. A sealant can help to repel water and other types of liquids, which can prevent them from seeping into the sand and causing damage.
However, there are also some potential downsides to sealing polymeric sand. For example, if you do not use the right type of sealant or apply it properly, it can create a hazy or cloudy appearance on the surface.
Additionally, if the sealant is not breathable, it can trap moisture in the sand, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. Finally, sealing polymeric sand can make it more difficult to remove and replace the sand in the future, which can be a drawback if you need to make repairs or changes to your outdoor surface.
In conclusion, sealing polymeric sand can be a good idea if you want to enhance the color, prevent weed growth, and provide extra protection against stains and other types of damage. However, it is important to choose the right type of sealant and apply it properly to avoid any potential downsides. Additionally, if you think you may need to make changes or repairs to your outdoor surface in the future, you may want to consider leaving the sand unsealed to make it easier to remove and replace.
