Polymeric sand is a material used to fill the joints between pavers, tiles, or natural stones. It is a fine sand that is combined with additives that form a binding agent when exposed to water. Silica is one of the additives used to help lock the fine sand particles together. Once the surface has been cleared of any excess polymeric sand, a light mist of water is sprayed over it to activate the binding agent. Most polymeric sand varieties can only be activated once and are waterproof thereafter. However, there are varieties available that have the ability to be softened by water to facilitate the correction of minor imperfections. Polymeric sand improves the overall durability of the hardscape and prevents weed growth and insect infestations. It is more durable and resistant to erosion than conventional jointing materials. Polymeric sand adheres to itself better than regular sand does, which is important for the varying elements a patio or hardscape will see over its long life. Polymeric sand allows the joints to expand and contract with the elements like hot sun during the summer and below-freezing temperatures in the winter. It will also bond pavers together so weeds and insects don’t make their home between each slab or stone. Polymeric sand comes in an array of colors, allowing you to choose the variety that will best suit your patio pavers. However, precision and attention to detail are required skills to use polymeric sand without creating hardened imperfections on the surface of pavers that will be difficult to remove.