I’m laying a reclaimed-brick patio with joints ranging from about 1/4 to 3/4 inch. Any suggestions for a suitable polymeric sand and color? Should I sweep it in before the final compaction?
What poly sand would you use for reclaimed brick?
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Check the product’s stated joint-width range before buying. A 3/4-inch gap is wider than some products allow, while others are made for wider joints, so don’t assume a standard paver sand will suit the whole patio. One product line people consider for this kind of work is Techniseal Nextgel HP, but verify the current instructions and coverage for your exact joint sizes.
For the sequence, sweep sand into the joints, compact with a protective mat, then add more sand and compact again until the joints are filled. Clear the surface carefully and wet it exactly as the package directs. Brick can hold moisture, so make sure the surface is dry enough before applying the sand and choose a suitable dry spell for curing.
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For color, I’d compare tan and gray against the actual bricks rather than choosing from a picture. Reclaimed brick often has a lot of variation, and the joint color can change the overall look. If you can, get a sample and check it beside the patio in daylight before committing to a full order.
Also check how much sand the wider joints will take. A product that fits the widest gaps may use more material than the coverage estimate for narrow joints suggests.
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If you want the joints to stay put, regular sand is the less reliable option. It can wash out and may need topping up, though it does leave the joints easier to reopen later. Polymeric sand can also be removed when needed, but expect some scraping or washing rather than treating it as completely temporary.
So I’d choose based on whether easy future access matters more than lower-maintenance joints, then make sure the selected product is rated for the widest gaps.
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