Polymeric Sand
BDC Brands Product Knowledge Center
Find answers to your questions about premier landscaping and hardscaping products
Dominator Polymeric Sand
Q. What is the difference between DOMINATOR® Power Flex and Ceramic Flex Polymeric Sand?
Q. Why hasn’t my DOMINATOR® Polymeric Sand hardened after 24 hours?
Dominator Polymeric Sand typically hardens within 24 hours under ideal conditions. However, high humidity, low temps (<50F), or poor drainage can delay curing. The sand sets as water evaporates—if the area stays wet, it won’t fully harden. It may feel flexible when wet, but it remains set in the joints. Avoid disturbing it. For washout concerns, call our helpline at 1-800-270-4050.
Q. Why do my pavers look hazy after installing DOMINATOR® Polymeric Sand?
Make sure the paver surface is completely dry before installing polymeric sand—any moisture on the paver surface (rain, morning dew, sprinklers) will prematurely activate the polymers in the sand and result in a white haze.
Please see the following blog posts for more information:
https://blackdiamondcoatings.com/blogs/resources-blog/the-dos-and-donts-of-dominator-polymeric-sand
Q. What type of drainage is required under pavers for proper polymeric sand performance?
Proper drainage is essential. Follow ICPI Tech Spec #2 for base installation. Avoid use over concrete overlays unless they meet ICPI Tech Spec #10 with pre-drilled drainage holes. DOMINATOR® Polymeric Sand is not suitable for below-grade or always-wet areas.
Q. Do I need to remove all the old joint material before adding new polymeric sand?
Yes, DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand requires at least 1-inch depth to perform as expected. Old jointing material must be completely removed to ensure adequate drainage. Expected results cannot be guaranteed if DOMINATOR Polymeric Sand is installed over existing jointing material.
Q. My pavers sit next to sod without edging. Is that okay for drainage?
No, sod is not considered permanent edging. Permanent edging is required around the entire paver area—even where it meets grass to prevent washout.
Q. Why is my polymeric sand washing out after it rains?
Common causes include: sand installed too high (flush with paver surface), poor drainage, no edging, or not allowing a full 24-hour cure before rain. Sand should be installed ⅛ inch below the surface.
Q. How do I stabilize my pavers?
Please see this blog post for more details.
Q. Why does the sand color look different than I expected?
Color can vary based on screen settings and natural sand variations. Water will also darken the color slightly. We recommend ordering a sample first and testing it by spraying with water.
For help choosing a color, call us at 1-800-270-4050.
Dominator Sealers
Q. Why should I seal my pavers?
Sealing protects your hardscape from UV damage, water, stains, and wear. It also stabilizes joint sand and reduces maintenance, helping your space look great longer.
See the following blog posts for more information:
https://blackdiamondcoatings.com/blogs/by-contractors-for-contractors/seal-pavers-growth-business
Q. What’s the difference between water-based and solvent-based sealers?
Water-based sealers are safer, eco-friendlier, and easier to apply with low odor and VOCs. Solvent-based options may offer a glossier finish but emit stronger fumes and require more safety precautions.
Q. How do I prevent hot tire marks on my pavers?
DOMINATOR® Sealers can be comparable to a screen protector. They will not always prevent tire marks due to a number of variables such as climate, specific tires, etc., but they will make them easier to remove from your pavers. To remove hot tire marks from your pavers, a gentle degreaser (think Dawn dish soap) and water will typically do the trick. If you are still struggling to remove marks from your pavers, pressure washing can be helpful. Please see our full article on hot tire marks here to learn more "link"
Q. What is efflorescence, and how do I remove it from my pavers?
Efflorescence is a naturally occurring, white, powdery deposit that appears on the surface of concrete, brick, or natural stone. It is caused by water soluble salts within the material or the base beneath it. When water moves through the material, it dissolves these salts and brings them to the surface of your pavers. Once the water evaporates the salts are left behind. It is important to clean all efflorescence before sealing your pavers. You can use a commercial efflorescence remover (which is typically acid based), while following the manufacturer's close instructions. Let the surface dry completely before sealing.
If your efflorescence is under the sealant, cleaning won’t help unless you remove the sealant first. Use a sealant stripper to remove the sealant and then clean with an efflorescence remover. Let the surface dry completely before resealing.
See the following blog post for more information:
https://blackdiamondcoatings.com/blogs/news-in-our-world/what-is-efflorescence
Q. Can DOMINATOR® sealers be used indoors?
Yes, DOMINATOR® sealers may be used indoors. You may have increased dry times depending on the indoor climate. Refer to our data sheets for specific precautions
Q. What if my Paver Sealer is taking too long to dry?
If the sealer is taking longer than expected to dry (over 24hrs), this could be due to a variety of reasons including, low temperatures, high humidity, shaded areas, and overapplication. Allow the sealer some time to finish curing on its own. If the sealer is still not dry after 2 weeks please contact our Customer Care team for assistance.
Dominator Mulch Stabilizers
Q. What is DOMINATOR® Mulch Anchor made of?
DOMINATOR Mulch Anchor is made from a proprietary, water-based polymer formula that's non-toxic, eco-conscious, and safe for people, pets, and plants. It forms a durable, flexible bond to lock mulch and ground cover in place without harsh chemicals or fumes.and ground cover in place—without harsh chemicals or fumes.
Q. What types of mulch does DOMINATOR® Mulch Anchor work on?
Mulch Anchor works great on shredded mulch, pea gravel (≤0.5 inch), pine straw, rubber mulch, small decorative rock, and shells.
Q. Is Mulch Anchor safe for plants? What if I spray them by accident?
Mulch Anchor is 100% plant-friendly, non-toxic, and water-permeable— so your plants will stay safe and can grow to their fullest potential after being sprayed! That being said, it is encouraged to protect areas from overspray where the Mulch Anchor is not intended to be applied.
See THIS VIDEO for more information:
(https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKAg9L6OifN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)
Q. Does DOMINATOR® Mulch Anchor let water drain without toxins getting through to the soil?
Yes, DOMINATOR® Mulch Anchor is fully water-permeable, rainwater flows through easily without blocking drainage or harming your soil.
Q. Does Mulch Anchor leach toxins into the soil?
No-Mulch Anchor does not leach toxins. Once cured, it forms a protective film without introducing harmful chemicals to the environment.
Q. Does DOMINATOR® Mulch Anchor stop weeds?
Mulch Anchor doesn’t kill weeds, and it won't stop weeds from growing, but by locking mulch in place, it helps reduce mulch disturbance.
Q. How do I remove mulch or rock after spraying Mulch Anchor?
Yes. Mulch Anchor is not permanent. It typically lasts 12-24 months, depending on conditions, and you can easily replace or remove the mulch afterward.
Q. Can you walk or drive on areas treated with Mulch Anchor?
DOMINATOR® Mulch Anchor is safe for light foot traffic but not designed for vehicle use. Avoid driving over areas treated with Mulch Anchor.
