This is the recommended sand for use under pavers. Mason Sand is a finer crushed sand with more uniform granules than concrete sand and has been screened and washed. It is the most versatile sand in terms of applications. Works well as a joint sand between pavers and other narrow joints.

What kind of sand can I use under pavers?

washed concrete sand





The Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute recommends washed concrete sand as the best base sand for pavers. Concrete sand, also known as bedding sand, is coarse and doesn’t trap excess moisture beneath the paver surface.

Can you use regular sand for paver base?

Regular sand pros
It distributes evenly for use as the paver foundation for the patio or walkway. Regular sand is a perfect alternative for polymeric sand when the design requires some adjustments.

Is Mason sand the same as all purpose sand?

Mason Sand is often referred to as an all-purpose sand, as it has many different functions and capabilities. Mason sand is a fine graded sand that can be used as an infill between cracks of pavers, fill material, paver base, beach sand, sandbox material and leveling agent.

Is masonry sand the same as concrete sand?

Concrete sand and mason sand are both created using the same process. However, mason sand is finer and more pulverized than concrete sand. Mason sand can be used in cement and is often used in concrete projects to achieve a more finished appearance due to its’ finer grains.

What can I use instead of polymeric sand?





When looking for alternatives to polymeric sand, you will also want to find high quality materials. There are other products, such as EnviroSAND, EnviroSTONE and EnviroPATH on the market that are able to stop water erosion from occurring.

What is the best base for pavers?

A sand-set paver base is the traditional way to install pavers. This method uses a layer of sand as a bed between the base and pavers. After installing sand, the pavers are laid on top and pressed into place.

Can I use play sand instead of paver sand?

On the other hand, using play sand in the installation of pavers can cause a lot of headaches. For once, they will not make the job correctly and you will probably have to re-sand your paver patio sooner than you planned for. Play sand will also not prevent weeds from growing between the grout lines of the pavers.

Is paver sand the same as construction sand?

The sand used when building a paver patio or walk is a coarse builder’s sand, with pieces ranging in size from 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. It may be called C-33, all-purpose or leveling sand. A fine grade of sand, such as joint or play sand, or rock dust is not suitable for laying pavers.

How thick should sand be under pavers?



Paver sand holds the pavers in place and allows you to adjust them. The final paver sand depth needs to be 1 inch and you need to account for sand filtering into the paver base and into the joints between the pavers. Make your calculations using a sand depth of 2 inches or 0.1667 feet.

Does masonry sand Harden?

As we brought up earlier, regular sand doesn’t harden enough on its own. So, if you need it to set, the best way to do it is by sealing them. You should give it at least 48 hours after applying the sealer.

What kind of sand is mason sand?

Masonry Sand: Masonry sand is sometimes called white sand, although it can come in beige and tan varieties in addition to a white-gray color. This fine-grained, clean sand is utilized in the creation of mortar or concrete; the final product is typically used to lay bricks, blocks, or stones.

Is Mason sand safe?



Masonry sand is relatively safe for use in a sandbox. Many parents use masonry sand in their children’s sandbox without issue.

When should you not use polymeric sand?

#6 – Too Narrow or Too Wide Joints
The sand is simply pushed out of the joints. This is why we don’t recommend using polymeric sand on extremely narrow joints. Similarly, too-wide joints can lead to washout, because they allow too much water flow during the activation process.

Will water drain through polymeric sand?

Polymeric sand, if installed properly, will harden to lock you pavers in place and create a more effective weed and insect deterent while still allowing water to drain freely.

How long does polymeric sand last?

Polymeric sand can last up to 10 years before replacement is necessary. However, certain manufacturers claim some products can last up to 15 years.

Can I use play sand instead of paver sand?



On the other hand, using play sand in the installation of pavers can cause a lot of headaches. For once, they will not make the job correctly and you will probably have to re-sand your paver patio sooner than you planned for. Play sand will also not prevent weeds from growing between the grout lines of the pavers.

Do you need to put sand under pavers?

Do I need sand under pavers? Installing driveway or patio pavers without sand is not a good idea because the sand base serves as the main stabilizing material for your pavers. Without sand, the pavers are likely to shift and sink over time, resulting in an uneven and messy surface.

How thick should sand be under pavers?

Paver sand holds the pavers in place and allows you to adjust them. The final paver sand depth needs to be 1 inch and you need to account for sand filtering into the paver base and into the joints between the pavers. Make your calculations using a sand depth of 2 inches or 0.1667 feet.