When it comes to sealing pavers, many homeowners ask, “Can you seal pavers without sand?” Yes. It is possible to seal pavers without sand. However, it is not advisable to do so. The use of joint material, specifically polymeric sand provides numerous advantages to installation.

The following article explains why polymeric sand makes a difference along with the implications of skipping it and also demonstrates how paver sealing generates few adverse outcomes.

What Is Polymeric Sand?

The initial step demands a basic understanding of what constitutes polymeric sand material.

Polymeric sand is a sand product which features additives together with polymers. 

Complemented by water application the pavers lock into position between the pieces of sand.

Polymeric sand improves pavers by securing their boundaries in addition to gap filling. The bonds created between each paver become extremely strong through this material.

The installation of this material occurs before paver sealing because it contributes to better stability and maintains presentable appearances.

Can You Seal Pavers Without Sand?

Yes, you can.

Homeowners typically either do not add sand during paver sealing or perform the process when the initial sand material has disappeared. Surface protection of pavers occurs when sealing them even without sand addition.

However, the protective sealer protects pavers from water damage alongside stains, sun exposure and fading effects.

Plus, sealing pavers without sand application will achieve protection at the surface level.

Why It’s Better To Use Polymeric Sand

Sealing your pavers works best when you begin with polymeric sand in the joints even though sealing without sand is possible.

So, here’s why:

1. Better Stability

Firstly, polymeric sand stops pavers from moving around.

When pavers lack sand, their position may change through time. Unlevel areas develop as well as substantial cracks form because of this.

Moreover, the paver installation becomes more robust through sand hardening which creates tight bonds between the pavers and enhances the entire surface strength.

2. Weed Prevention

Secondly, weeds have a preference for growing in openings between pavers.

Thus, this sand prevents this by forming a strong and waterproof joint seal. Weed seeds cannot establish growth due to the barrier created by polymeric sand during joint filling.

3. Pest Control

Thirdly, empty spaces without sand create ideal nesting places for ants together with various other bugs.

On the other hand, application of polymeric sand techniques fills in the areas pests use to hide which prevents their access to your paver area. The filling technique aids in discouraging pests from approaching your paver area.

4. Better Sealer Adhesion

Furthermore, polymeric sand and other sealants will provide optimal results when you start with clean surfaces where the joints have an appropriate fill.

Because without sand between the pavers the sealer has reduced effectiveness in sticking properly. The uneven distribution and premature deterioration of the sealer become possible when gaps in the joint remain unsanded.

Consequently, polymeric sand creates an even joint surface when used for filling purposes so the sealer has a strong bond area.

5. Less Maintenance

Lastly, the maintenance requirements for pavers increase steadily when they do not contain joint sand.

The entry of water between pavers results in base removal which induces sinking or shifting outcomes.

Thus, the combination of this sand and a proper sealer produces a surface that survives long-term while requiring minimal upkeep.

Are There Side Effects to Sealing Pavers?

Several individuals fear that paver sealing will result in material destruction.

However, not many negative effects affect the paver sealing process.

So, here’s what you should know:

No Major Damage

The process of sealing pavers stands as harmless to both stones and bricks. The protective properties of sealing help protect the pavers and surface material.

The sealer establishes protection by creating a barrier which covers the pavers. Wetness as well as stains and oil and dirt stay locked outside by the sealer. The sealer safeguards against fading that sun exposure would typically create.

Slight Color Enhancement

Additionally, if you apply certain sealers they will cause a minimal darkening effect on pavers. The colors of the pavers will become more bold and saturated after the application of the sealer.

The color enhancement effect does not indicate damage but prospective users should know about it in advance.

What Happens If You Skip Polymeric Sand?

You may seal your pavers without polymeric sand but you will encounter future problems with them.

By skipping it you will encounter possible difficulties in the future:

• Pavers can shift and settle unevenly.
• Weeds can grow between the joints.
• Ants or bugs can nest in the gaps.
• Water can erode the base beneath the pavers.
• The sealer might not hold as well in the joints.

Consequently, small issues will naturally build up over time even if you do not fix them immediately.

Thus, it is best to put polymeric sand in before sealing the pavers.

In Conclusion

Most experts recommend using polymeric sand before applying sealer on pavers though sealing without sand is possible.

In addition, polymeric sand strengthens surfaces by keeping weeds and pests out while improving the sealer bond.

The good news? The effects of sealing pavers are minimal. The main purpose of sealing your pavers is to enhance their appearance and prolong their lifespan.

Moreover, sand use ensures lasting beauty for your pavers so you should not skip this step. The small addition of sand creates major results.

If you’d like help picking the right sealer or scheduling a reseal, reach out to Paver Protector today.