Polymeric sand is an extremely fine form of sand that is combined with additives that bind the grains together when exposed to water. Silica is often used as an additive and has the effect of locking the sand particles together. This type of sand is highly desirable for paving applications because when the sand particles bond they form an impenetrable barrier between pavers and help lock them together.
During a paving project, compacting the pavers and locking them together is the final step in the project and provides the desired finish. Often the sand is added to the pavers more than once to ensure that the gaps between them have been filled completely. Before water is added to the sand to create the bond, care must be taken to ensure that no sand is present on the surface of the pavers since this can cause marking and staining. Some of the best polymeric sand Canada is made in Quebec and is available from home improvement stores across the country.