Polymeric Sand vs Regular Sand for Pavers: Weeds, Ants, and Repairs

A stone patio can look perfect one season and feel a little rough the next. We see this often here on the East End, where salt air, shifting soils, and quick weather swings put outdoor surfaces to the test. Many homeowners focus on the pavers themselves and overlook the sand holding everything together. That choice has a bigger impact than most people expect.

The real frustration shows up a year or two later. Weeds pushing through joints, ants building tunnels beneath your feet, and pavers that start to rock or sink just enough to be annoying. These issues are common around The Hamptons, where sandy soils meet freeze and thaw cycles and summer downpours. The type of sand between your pavers plays a major role in how soon these problems appear.

We get a lot of questions about polymeric sand versus regular sand. During consultations and repairs, our team at Oceanview Landscapes often sees patios that could have lasted far longer with a better joint material choice. Understanding the difference upfront can save time, money, and repeat repairs.

What Regular Sand Really Does

Regular sand, often called jointing sand, is the traditional option. It is usually a fine, dry sand brushed into the gaps between pavers after installation. Its main job is simple. It fills the joints and allows some flexibility as the pavers settle.

This sand drains easily, which sounds like a good thing. Water passes through and does not pool on the surface. In areas with steady rainfall, that can help prevent puddles. The downside is that water also carries sand away over time. Heavy summer storms in the Hamptons can wash it out faster than homeowners expect.

As the sand loosens, small gaps appear. Seeds land there and take root. Ants notice the soft material and begin to tunnel. Before long, joints look patchy and uneven. Topping off the sand helps for a while, but it becomes a routine chore.

Regular sand does have its place. It is inexpensive and simple to install. For walkways or areas that see light use, it can be acceptable. In high traffic patios, pool decks, or driveways, it often falls short under local conditions.

How Polymeric Sand Is Different

Polymeric sand starts as a fine sand blend, similar in look to regular sand. The difference lies in the polymers mixed into it. When activated with water, these binders harden and lock the sand grains together.

Once cured, polymeric sand forms a firm joint that resists movement. It still allows a small amount of flexibility, but it does not wash out easily. This makes a noticeable difference after a strong coastal rain or a winter thaw.

The curing process matters. Installation requires dry weather, clean joints, and careful watering. When done correctly, the result is a joint that stays intact for years. When rushed or installed during damp conditions, the surface can haze or weaken. This is one reason many homeowners choose to have a professional handle the work.

Weeds and Plant Growth in Paver Joints

Weeds are one of the most common complaints we hear. Around the Hamptons, seeds arrive from every direction. Wind, birds, and nearby lawns all contribute. Moisture and sunlight do the rest.

Regular sand offers little resistance. Seeds settle into the loose grains and roots push down easily. Even with routine maintenance, weeds return again and again.

Polymeric sand does not stop weeds forever, but it slows them significantly. Once cured, the hardened joint leaves little room for roots to take hold. Most weeds that appear on polymeric joints come from organic material that settles on top, not from below. These are easier to remove and less likely to return.

Ants and Insects Under Pavers

Ants thrive in sandy environments, which makes our region ideal for them. Regular sand joints are easy to excavate. Ants tunnel beneath pavers, creating voids that cause shifting and uneven surfaces.

Polymeric sand creates a barrier ants do not enjoy digging through. The hardened joints discourage tunneling and help protect the base beneath the pavers. This does not eliminate ants from the yard, but it keeps them from turning your patio into a construction site.

Repairs and Long Term Stability

Repairs tell the true story of any installation. With regular sand, repairs often involve lifting pavers, adding base material, and re sanding joints. The same areas may need attention again a few seasons later.

Polymeric sand supports the pavers as a unified surface. Joints stay filled, which helps distribute weight and reduce movement. When repairs are needed, they tend to be more isolated and less frequent.

In our local climate, freeze and thaw cycles are a big factor. Water that seeps into loose joints expands as it freezes, pushing pavers out of alignment. Firm joints reduce water infiltration and limit this movement.

Drainage and Weather Considerations

Drainage is often raised as a concern with polymeric sand. It does allow water through, just at a slower rate than loose sand. When the base beneath the pavers is properly prepared, this is not an issue.

Here on the East End, sudden downpours are common. A well built base paired with polymeric joints handles these conditions well. Problems usually trace back to poor base preparation, not the sand itself.

Salt air is another local factor. Over time, it can break down weaker materials. Quality polymeric sand products are designed to hold up better in coastal environments.

Appearance Over Time

Regular sand tends to lighten and wash out, leaving joints uneven in color and depth. This can make even well laid pavers look tired.

Polymeric sand holds its color longer and keeps joints crisp. This consistency contributes to a cleaner look season after season. Choosing the right color also matters. Lighter shades show less fading and blend well with natural stone common in the Hamptons.

Cost Versus Value

Upfront cost is often the deciding factor. Regular sand is cheaper at installation. Polymeric sand costs more in materials and labor.

The difference shows over time. Fewer weeds, less ant activity, and fewer repairs mean lower maintenance costs. Many homeowners find that polymeric sand pays for itself within a few years through reduced upkeep.

Choosing What Works for Your Property

There is no single answer for every project. Light use paths may do fine with regular sand. High use patios, pool surrounds, and driveways benefit from polymeric sand, especially in our coastal climate.

If you are unsure, a professional evaluation helps. We see how soil conditions, drainage, and exposure affect performance, and we apply that knowledge when installing or repairing pavers.

Final Thoughts

The sand between your pavers may seem like a small detail, but it shapes how your outdoor spaces age. Weeds, ants, and ongoing repairs are often symptoms of a joint material that does not suit local conditions.

Understanding the strengths and limits of polymeric sand and regular sand helps you make a choice that fits your home and lifestyle. With the right approach, your pavers can stay stable, clean, and comfortable underfoot through many Hamptons seasons.