How To Install Nitro-X In 4 Steps
Installing Nitro-X is a straightforward process. In this blog post, we’ll explain how to assess your project ahead of time and then walk you through the four installation steps.
START HERE! If you haven’t done so already, be sure to read these two blog posts before jumping into your Nitro-X installation:
6 Key Differences Between Gator Nitro & Nitro-X
3 THINGS TO DO BEFORE STARTING YOUR NITRO-X PROJECT
Nitro-X can be used on a variety of projects, as long as there’s a drainage base: patios, pool decks, walkways, and even residential driveways.
Nitro-X is formulated with finer particles and a special resin, which makes it possible to successfully fill tighter joints. In fact, Nitro-X can be installed in joints as narrow as ⅛” (and will work in a joint size of up to 2”). If your project has a drainage base and the paver joints meet these size requirements, Nitro-X might be a match. However, there are a few other requirements to consider.
PRE-INSTALLATION CHECKLIST
Before starting your installation, you’ll want to assess your project to deem it a good fit for Nitro-X. Here are the requirements:
The project has been installed on a drainage base.
Pavers, stones, or tiles have been installed directly on open graded aggregates that lock or choke themselves off. This will ensure the Nitro-X doesn’t migrate down into the base, which would ultimately be a waste of sand! (Note: Gator Base is also an acceptable base for pedestrian Nitro-X applications.)
The pavers are completely secure. It’s important to note that any movement can result in joint cracking later down the road.
The joint width is between ⅛” and 2” (3mm-50mm)
The temperature is expected to be above 37°F (3°C) on the day of the install. It also shouldn’t be too hot out, as the sand must never dry up during the installation.
Two people will take part in the installation; one hoses while the other brooms.
STEP 1: WET THE SURFACE
Similar to its counterpart, Gator Nitro, Nitro-X requires a lot of water during the installation process. To get started, you’ll want to thoroughly wet the project surface, the surrounding areas, your tools, and anything else that might come into contact with the Nitro-X. If the surface is dry or temperature is high, more water will be required to avoid staining the surface when spreading the sand.
STEP 2: SPREAD THE SAND
The next step is spreading the sand. Open the bag of Nitro-X and spread a third of the contents over the paved surface. We recommend working in this batch size to ensure the sand can be effectively watered enough. One person should use the hose to thoroughly soak the sand while the other person uses a squeegee or hard bristle broom to mix the water into the sand and spread the slurry diagonally across the surface, allowing it to flow into the joints. Continue this process of applying water while using a squeegee or broom to push the product into the joints. This action compacts and forces the Nitro-X into the joints and ensures the gaps are filled. Joints should be filled to a level of ⅛” below the chamfer of the paver or surface of the stone. Be sure to shower the surface to rinse off excess material from the paved surface.
NOTE: You will repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the whole paving area is completed.
STEP 3: REMOVE RESIDUE
Any excess Nitro-X residue left on the project surface can be simply cleaned off by brushing and rinsing.
STEP 4: PACK UP
Leftover, unused Nitro-X can be stored directly in its pail, submerged in 2” of water. Close the lid tightly and the product will last an extra four weeks.
OPTIONAL STEP: REFINE THE JOINTS
With Nitro-X, you can achieve the look of a smooth, finished joint. Simply use a suitable mason jointing tool after completing Steps 1 to 4, and while the Nitro-X is in its curing phase. (The sand will cure in about 18 hours.)
CONCLUSION
After running through the Pre-installation Checklist, you can install Nitro-X in as little as four easy steps.
Thoroughly wet the surface, surrounding areas, your tools, and anything that might come into contact with the Nitro-X.
Spread a third of the sand onto the surface. One person should work the hose, keeping the sand completely saturated, while the other person mixes a slurry and brooms it into the joints.
After all the joints are filled, brush and rinse any remaining residue that’s left on the surface.
Package up any unused, leftover Nitro-X by submerging it under 2” of water in its pail and tightly securing the lid.
Once Nitro-X is curing, you have the option to use a mason jointing tool to refine the joints.
