When installing pavers around a pool, choosing the right product to fill the gaps is crucial for durability, aesthetics, and safety. The most common options include polymeric sand, joint compound, pool deck grout, and rubber paver spacers. Each product has its unique properties, application methods, and suitability for pool environments. This guide will help you understand the best options for your pool paver project, considering factors like water exposure, chemical resistance, and longevity.
What Are the Main Options for Filling Gaps Between Pool Pavers?
The primary products used between pavers around a pool are:
- Polymeric Sand
- Joint Compound
- Pool Deck Grout
- Rubber Paver Spacers
Each of these options has its own set of advantages and considerations when used in a pool environment.
How Does Polymeric Sand Perform Around Pools?
Polymeric sand is a popular choice for filling gaps between pavers around pools due to its ease of application and durability. Here’s what you need to know:
- Application: Applied dry and activated with water
- Durability: Lasts 3-10 years
- Cost: Moderate
- Environmental Resistance: Good for most weather conditions
Pros of Polymeric Sand:
- Easy to apply
- Resistant to weed growth
- Withstands freeze-thaw cycles
Cons of Polymeric Sand:
- Not suitable for joints larger than 3mm
- Can leave residue if not properly installed
- Not ideal for permeable paver systems
What Makes Joint Compound a Good Choice for Pool Pavers?
Joint compound is another excellent option for pool paver installations, especially for larger gaps:
- Application: Applied wet, worked into joints
- Durability: Up to 20 years
- Cost: Higher than polymeric sand
- Environmental Resistance: Excellent for various weather conditions
Advantages of Joint Compound:
- Suitable for larger joints (over 3mm)
- Permeable, allowing water drainage
- Highly durable in extreme weather
Disadvantages of Joint Compound:
- More labor-intensive application
- Higher cost compared to polymeric sand
- Requires careful rinsing during installation
How Effective is Pool Deck Grout for Paver Joints?
Pool deck grout is specifically designed for use around pools and offers excellent durability:
- Application: Applied with a grout float, requires sealing
- Durability: Very durable with proper maintenance
- Cost: Higher, especially with sealing costs
- Environmental Resistance: Excellent resistance to water and chemicals
Benefits of Pool Deck Grout:
- Specifically designed for pool environments
- Highly resistant to pool chemicals
- Provides a solid, durable joint
Drawbacks of Pool Deck Grout:
- Requires periodic sealing
- More expensive option
- Labor-intensive application process
What Role Do Rubber Paver Spacers Play in Pool Paver Installation?
While not a joint filler, rubber paver spacers are important in the installation process:
- Application: Placed between pavers during installation
- Durability: Long-lasting but may degrade over time
- Cost: Generally less expensive than fillers
- Environmental Resistance: Must withstand sun, water, and chemicals
Advantages of Rubber Paver Spacers:
- Ensure even spacing between pavers
- Easy to use during installation
- Cost-effective
Disadvantages of Rubber Paver Spacers:
- Not a joint filler
- May degrade over time due to exposure
- Doesn’t provide the stability of sand or grout
How Do These Products Compare in Terms of Application and Quantity?
To help you choose the right product, here’s a comparison table of application methods and typical quantities:
| Product | Application Method | Typical Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Polymeric Sand | Dry application, water activated | 1-2 lbs per sq ft |
| Joint Compound | Wet application, worked into joints | Varies based on joint size |
| Pool Deck Grout | Applied with grout float, requires sealing | 1-2 lbs per sq ft |
| Rubber Paver Spacers | Placed between pavers during installation | Depends on paver spacing |
What Are the Key Considerations for Choosing a Paver Joint Product for Pools?
When selecting a product to go between pavers around a pool, consider the following factors:
- Water Resistance: The product must withstand constant exposure to water.
- Chemical Resistance: It should be able to resist pool chemicals without degrading.
- UV Stability: The product must not break down under constant sun exposure.
- Durability: Consider how long the product will last before needing replacement.
- Ease of Application: Some products are easier to apply than others.
- Cost: Balance the initial cost with long-term durability and maintenance needs.
- Permeability: Consider whether you need a permeable or non-permeable solution.
- Joint Size: Ensure the product is suitable for your paver joint width.
How Do Environmental Conditions Affect Paver Joint Products Around Pools?
Environmental factors play a crucial role in the performance of paver joint products around pools:
- Sun Exposure: Products must resist UV degradation.
- Temperature Fluctuations: They should withstand freeze-thaw cycles if applicable.
- Chemical Exposure: Resistance to chlorine and other pool chemicals is essential.
- Water Exposure: Products must maintain integrity despite constant moisture.
- Foot Traffic: The joint filler should be able to handle regular foot traffic around the pool.
What Are the Installation Challenges for Different Paver Joint Products?
Each product comes with its own set of installation challenges:
Polymeric Sand:
- Requires dry conditions for installation
- Must be carefully swept into joints
- Excess must be thoroughly removed to prevent residue
Joint Compound:
- Needs to be worked into joints while wet
- Requires thorough rinsing
- More labor-intensive application process
Pool Deck Grout:
- Requires careful application with a grout float
- Needs sealing after application
- More time-consuming installation process
Rubber Paver Spacers:
- Must be placed accurately during paver installation
- Not a joint filler, so additional products may be needed
How Often Do These Products Need Replacement or Maintenance?
Understanding the maintenance requirements is crucial for long-term planning:
- Polymeric Sand: Typically needs replacement every 3-10 years
- Joint Compound: Can last up to 20 years with proper installation
- Pool Deck Grout: Requires periodic sealing, but can last many years if maintained
- Rubber Paver Spacers: May need replacement if they degrade, but generally long-lasting
What Are the Cost Implications of Different Paver Joint Products?
Cost is an important factor in choosing the right product:
- Polymeric Sand: Generally the most cost-effective option
- Joint Compound: More expensive than polymeric sand
- Pool Deck Grout: Highest initial cost, especially when including sealing
- Rubber Paver Spacers: Low cost, but not a complete joint solution
Consider both the initial cost and long-term maintenance expenses when making your decision.
By carefully considering these factors and understanding the properties of each product, you can make an informed decision on what product goes between pavers around your pool. Each option has its strengths, and the best choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and pool environment.