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How to ensure granitic sand sets in place?

JoB166
Finding My Feet

How to ensure granitic sand sets in place?

Hi, I’ve done two rounds of granitic sand in my back yard, following the correct process and using a compactor. There are some small areas where it is just not compacting and sticking together. 

is there something you could suggest? Or a product I could use to put on top to help these areas set? 

 

JacobZ
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: How to ensure granitic sand sets in place?

Hi @JoB166,

 

There's a good chance the areas where the granitic sand is falling through have a cavity beneath. You could simply keep adding granitic sand and compacting until it stops subsiding, but this may take some time.

 

Alternatively, you can use Powerloc Polymer Paving Sand which has a polymer additive that when wet will bind the sand together between the pavers.

 

Let me know what you think and if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

 

Jacob

 

Re: How to ensure granitic sand sets in place?

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Thanks @JacobZ 

 

I should have mentioned in my post that there are no pavers, just granitic sand. I’ve posted a picture for reference.

 

I’ve also added two pictures of what the sand looks like when it’s rained, it softens a lot. There’s are also patches that just seem to crumble.

 

is there anything I can add? Or anything I can do to make it more solid? 

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MitchellMc
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: How to ensure granitic sand sets in place?

Hi @JoB166,

 

It sounds like the area may not have been compacted adequately in the first round. Typically, the process involves compacting the sand, watering the area to dampen it, and then compacting again. This can help lock the sand into place and improve stability. It might take a few rounds of compacting and wetting to get the desired result. However, if rain is still causing the surface to deteriorate after this process, it's possible the granitic sand you're using doesn't have the ability to set as well as you need for that particular this application.

 

Mitchell

 

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