1. What is Polymeric Sand?

Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sands combined with additives that form a binding agent when activated with water. It's used to fill paver joints, creating a durable, weed-resistant surface that helps prevent washout and insect infiltration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Area} \) — Total paved area in square feet
• \( \text{Joint width} \) — Width between pavers (typically ⅛–⅜ inches)
• \( \text{Joint depth} \) — Depth of joints (typically 1–2 inches)
• \( 144 \) — Conversion factor (square inches to square feet)
• \( 100 \) — Sand density in pounds per cubic foot

Note: Standard polymeric sand coverage is 75–100 ft² per 50 lb bag for small joints (⅛–¼ inch).

3. Importance of Proper Sand Calculation

Details: Accurate sand calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of material, avoiding costly over-purchasing or project delays from under-purchasing. Proper sand application prevents joint erosion and maintains paver stability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your paved area carefully. For irregular shapes, divide into rectangles and calculate each separately. Typical joint widths are ⅛–⅜ inches, and depths are 1–2 inches (equal to paver thickness).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much extra sand should I buy?
A: Add 10-15% to account for compaction, spillage, and uneven joints.

Q2: Can I use this for larger joints?
A: For joints wider than ½ inch, consider using gravel or crushed stone instead.

Q3: How does joint width affect sand usage?
A: Doubling joint width approximately doubles sand requirement (linear relationship).

Q4: What if my pavers have different thicknesses?
A: Use the average depth or calculate separately for different depth areas.

Q5: How should I store unused polymeric sand?
A: Keep in original bag in a cool, dry place. Once opened, use within 6 months.