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 the joints between pavers, creating a durable, weed-resistant surface.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Total area of the paved surface in square feet
• \( Joint width \) — Width of the joints between pavers in inches
• \( Joint depth \) — Depth of the joints between pavers in inches
• 144 — Conversion factor from square inches to square feet
• 100 — Density factor for polymeric sand (100 lb/ft³)

Explanation: The equation calculates the volume of joints in cubic feet and then converts this to pounds of sand needed based on the standard density of polymeric sand.

3. Importance of Proper Sand Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of material, avoiding both waste and project delays from insufficient supplies. Proper joint filling prevents weed growth and paver movement.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your project area accurately. Typical joint widths range from 1/8" to 1/2". Joint depth is usually equal to the thickness of your pavers minus 1/2" for the bedding layer.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much extra sand should I buy?
A: It's recommended to purchase 10-15% more than calculated to account for waste, spillage, and compaction.

Q2: Can I use this for irregular paver patterns?
A: Yes, but measure the average joint width across several areas for best results.

Q3: Does joint width significantly affect sand quantity?
A: Yes, doubling joint width approximately doubles sand needed, as it's a linear relationship.

Q4: What if my pavers have different thicknesses?
A: Use the average thickness or calculate each section separately and sum the results.

Q5: How does temperature affect application?
A: Polymeric sand should be applied in temperatures between 32°F and 90°F for optimal performance.