6 Key Differences Between Gator Nitro and Nitro-X
Nitro-X was launched three years after the original Gator Nitro to meet the market’s demand for a strong joint material that hardens from top-to-bottom, yet can also be worked into more narrow spaces. In this article, we’ll outline the six main differences between Nitro-X and the O.G. Gator Nitro.
Nitro-X in Gunmetal
Before breaking down the big differences between Nitro-X and the original Gator Nitro, let’s talk about what they both have in common.
Strength. Both versions will completely harden from top-to-bottom. Because of this, it’s imperative that the pavers, stones, or tile within the application are completely secure and cannot move, as cracking may occur in the joints.
Rain or Shine Installations. A major selling point for both Nitro-X and Gator Nitro is that they can be installed rain or shine!
Drainage Base. Both Nitro-X and Gator Nitro must be installed on a drainage base. Gator Base, installed with either a sand or chip setting bed, is also an acceptable base for pedestrian applications.
Applications. A variety of application types are well-suited for either product: concrete pavers, natural or wet cast stones, walkways, pool decks, patios, and residential driveways with interlocking pavers.
With original Gator Nitro, the joint height can be set using the Flat setting on a hose. With Nitro-X, a more mechanical action is needed so we recommend using a broom.
Now we’ll cover what makes Nitro-X different from its predecessor, the original Gator Nitro.
1. Finer Particles
The original Gator Nitro quickly gained popularity with hardscape contractors when it launched in the fall of 2020. However, the resins used in it made the product challenging to install in joints smaller than 3/16” (5mm). Nitro-X was formulated with not only a different resin, but also finer particles so that it is in fact able to be successfully installed in tight joints. The minimum joint size we recommend for Nitro-X is 1/8” (3mm).
2. Less Permeable
Finer particles means less void space between them, and more resin, which makes Nitro-X less permeable than the original Gator Nitro.
3. More colors
Nitro-X is available in five colors: Black, Gunmetal, Platinum, Taupe, and Vanilla. While the original Gator Nitro has very dark colors, we were able to create much lighter colors with the Nitro-X.
4. More water Needed
Whether you’re installing the regular Gator Nitro or Nitro-X, using the right amount of water will be key to the project’s success. Nitro-X was designed with Rapid Flow Technology, which allows sand particles to easily flow down into the joints by use of water. Nitro-X should be sprayed with enough water to create a slurry, which then gets pushed into the joints using a hard bristle broom or squeegee. (Nitro-X requires about double the amount of water during installation compared to Gator Nitro.)
5. WORK IN SMALLER QUANTITIES
In order to maintain the fast and simple installation of Rapid Flow Technology, we recommend that you work in smaller quantities. Chances are, if you’re using Nitro-X, you’re most likely working with a tighter joint and won’t need as much material regardless. Nitro-X comes in a more easy-to-manage bucket size of 27.5 lb. (12.5kg) It’s important to note that only a third of the bucket should be used at a time in order to properly mix with water.
6. BROOM TO SET JOINT HEIGHT
With original Gator Nitro, the joint height can be set using the Flat setting on a hose. With Nitro-X, a more mechanical action is needed so we recommend using a broom.
CONCLUSION
When trying to decide between the original Gator Nitro and Nitro-X, here are six differentiators to keep in mind:
Nitro-X consists of finer particles so it can be used in joints as narrow as 1/8” (3mm). The minimum joint width for Gator Nitro is 3/16” (3mm).
Because of these finer particles, Nitro-X is less permeable than the original Gator Nitro.
Nitro-X has more color choices: Black, Gunmetal, Platinum, Taupe, and Vanilla.
About twice the amount of water will be needed to install Nitro-X compared to the original Gator Nitro.
You’ll work in smaller quantities with Nitro-X. Nitro-X also comes in a smaller, more easy-to-manage bucket size.
The joint height should be set with a broom (as opposed to a hose) when working with Nitro-X.