Looking Past Polymeric Sand

Over the past 20 years the range of paver jointing options available to consumers in the hardscaping and landscape construction in industry in North America has greatly increased thanks to the advancement in binding technology and the introduction of many new products such as polymeric sand to the marketplace. In recent times, there has been a growing demand for stronger, more resilient and environmentally sustainable jointing compounds as hardscape surfaces are now being continually exposed to rapidly changing weather patterns, as well as more frequent and vigorous cleaning and maintenance cycles.

Romex Jointing

Historically, loose jointing sand and more recently various polymeric sands have been the paver jointing material selection of choice for many Homeowners, Manufacturers and Designers, but often have shorter life cycles in adverse weather climates or in applications where they are being used beyond their core capabilities such as in wider paver joints, commercial areas and surfaces that require frequent pressure washing and maintenance. These common applications often see jointing material washout, paver shift due to freeze thaw cycles and the ingress or water as well as ant or weed infestations over a relatively short period of time, resulting in costly rework and replacement of the jointing material.

Romex Jointing 01

As buying trends and construction regulations continuously shift towards more durable, efficient and environmentally conscious products, synthetic resin jointing products have seen an increase in popularity in recent times as their slightly larger up-front costs comes with a range of desirable performance and longevity benefits that save consumers time, money and inconvenience down the road. Synthetic resin jointing products utilise innovative resin technologies that are mixed with graded silica sands to create a permeable jointing compound that is categorically stronger and more resilient to the forces of nature than traditional methods such as jointing sand, polymeric sand and cement jointing.

Here are three key benefits of resin bound jointing applications over traditional jointing sand or polymeric sand:

Reduced Install Time

Reduced Installation time

Synthetic resin jointing products range from ready-mixed vacuum packed dry mix compounds to water emulsifiable liquid slurry-type solutions, all of which are designed to significantly increase the ease of any installation and reduce working time. The advanced resin binding technologies in permeable jointing products has been developed over several decades and the enhanced workability of all resin bound jointing products allow installations to be completed in a shorter time frame than traditional methods such as loose jointing sand, polymeric sand and cement applications. All installations are carried out standing up using either a manufacturer’s recommended installation kit or a household broom, making all applications simple, less strenuous and suitable for all homeowners and contractors.

Performance & Permeability

Hardscape surfaces that have been jointed with a synthetic resin jointing product have been proven to perform in all climates and are a key component of an effective stormwater management strategy. The unique permeability feature of synthetic resin based products enables the surface to work with water and help return it back to the ground where it can be used to feed surrounding vegetation, plantations or be recycled for other household uses. Traditional jointing methods such as loose jointing sand, polymeric sand and cement applications typically work against the natural environment and aim to keep water out which often leads to cracking, erosion and rapid failure of the jointing compound. Installing a permeable jointing compound allows users to enjoy a safe, puddle free surface that complies with stormwater management criteria and limits the amount of surface runoff that ends up in our already overcrowded drainage and sewage networks.

Romex Jointing 2

Durability Maintenance

Durability & Maintenance

Lower project life cycle costs thanks to no call-backs or rework as well as reduced ongoing maintenance are key benefits of any paved surface that is jointed with a synthetic resin jointing product. The strength and durability of the products mean that users can safely maintain their surface using a pressure washer or cleaning machine without risk of damaging the jointing material. The ease of maintenance is a significant advantage over traditional surfaces that are jointed with loose jointing sand, polymeric sand or cement as these methods are highly susceptible to washout or involve much longer and labour intensive cleaning cycles. The innovative and high quality ROMEX ® permeable jointing product range guarantees long-term peace of mind as well lower project life cycle costs thanks to the surface’s ability to be easily maintained.