When it comes to building a strong, durable paver patio, walkway, or driveway, the materials you choose matter—especially the sand. For residents and contractors in Hunterdon County, NJ, finding high-quality paver sand is the first step toward a lasting hardscape. Whether you’re installing pavers for the first time or redoing an existing space, sourcing the right kind of sand—and knowing where to get it—is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down the types of sand you need, what to look for in a supplier, and where to buy sand for pavers in Hunterdon County.
Why Sand Matters in Paver Projects
If you’ve ever walked across a beautiful paver patio and admired its smoothness, uniformity, and stability, there’s a good chance high-quality sand played a role in that result.
Sand serves three primary purposes in a paver project:
- Base Layer (Compacted Bedding Sand): Sand is used as a cushion layer beneath the pavers, helping them settle evenly and drain properly.
- Joint Filler (Polymeric or Jointing Sand): Sand is swept into the gaps between pavers to lock them in place and prevent weed growth.
- Drainage Support: Good bedding sand allows water to flow away from the pavers, preventing pooling and erosion.
Using the wrong type of sand—or poor-quality material—can lead to sinking, shifting, or weed-ridden joints in a short time.
Types of Sand for Paver Projects
Before you start shopping, it helps to understand the different types of sand used in hardscape construction:
1. Concrete Sand (Bedding Sand)
This is the most commonly used base layer beneath pavers. Concrete sand is coarse, which allows for excellent drainage and compaction. It creates a stable base that supports the weight of foot traffic and even vehicles.
2. Mason Sand
Finer than concrete sand, mason sand is sometimes used for a smoother finish in joints but is not typically recommended as a base layer due to its softness and poor drainage properties.
3. Polymeric Sand
This is a high-tech joint filler made of fine sand combined with polymer additives. When activated with water, it hardens to lock pavers in place and prevent weed growth or ant infestations.
4. Stone Dust (Screenings)
Stone dust is sometimes used in place of bedding sand, but it has poor drainage and can compact too tightly. It’s generally not recommended for base layers under pavers.
Where to Buy Paver Sand in Hunterdon County
1. Kirk Allen Landscape Supply
📍 Visit: kirkallenlandscapesupply.com
📞 Call: 973-347-3117
Kirk Allen Landscape Supply is one of the most trusted names in New Jersey when it comes to sand, gravel, mulch, and other hardscape materials. While based in nearby Sussex County, they regularly deliver to customers throughout Hunterdon County.
They offer a wide range of sand products including:
- Concrete sand (ideal for paver bases)
- Polymeric jointing sand
- Masonry sand
- Delivery by the ton or yard
Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right material for your specific project, whether you’re a homeowner, landscaper, or contractor.
2. Local Stone & Gravel Yards
Hunterdon County has a number of landscape supply centers that carry bulk sand and gravel. Be sure to check:
- Pittstown Sand & Gravel
- Linden Landscape Supply
- Clinton Block & Concrete Co.
Prices and availability vary, so it’s a good idea to call ahead or compare delivery fees.
Tips for Buying the Right Sand
Before placing an order, here are a few tips to make the process smooth:
✅ Measure Your Area Accurately
To avoid buying too much—or too little—use a gravel/sand calculator to estimate how much sand you’ll need. For example, 1 inch of sand over 100 square feet requires roughly 0.3 cubic yards of sand.
✅ Order a Bit Extra
Always order about 10% more sand than you think you’ll need. This covers compaction loss and minor miscalculations.
✅ Ask About Delivery
Many suppliers in and around Hunterdon County offer delivery, especially for larger orders. Make sure they can deliver to your zip code and have the right truck size for your site.
✅ Choose the Right Type
Stick with coarse concrete sand for the base, and opt for polymeric sand for filling the joints. Avoid mixing types unless you’re sure they’re compatible.
Can You Use Sand From Big Box Stores?
While home improvement stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot do carry bagged sand, it’s typically more expensive per cubic foot and not always the right type. Bagged play sand or mason sand may be too fine for proper paver installation.
If you’re working on a large area—like a patio or driveway—you’ll save money and get better results by purchasing bulk sand from a local supplier like Kirk Allen Landscape Supply.
Benefits of Buying Locally
Supporting local suppliers doesn’t just mean faster delivery times. Here’s why buying locally makes a difference:
- Expert guidance from experienced staff
- Higher-quality materials compared to mass-market chain stores
- Reliable bulk pricing for contractors and homeowners alike
- Reduced transportation costs (especially if you’re within delivery range)
Final Thoughts
Installing pavers is a long-term investment in your home or business, and the quality of your materials makes a huge difference. For anyone in Hunterdon County, sourcing the right sand for pavers doesn’t have to be a guessing game.
Reach out to a trusted supplier like Kirk Allen Landscape Supply at 973-347-3117 or visit kirkallenlandscapesupply.com to get personalized recommendations, accurate delivery, and competitive prices.
Pro Tip:
Always compact your base sand before placing pavers—and again after placing them. It’s one of the most overlooked steps, but it ensures long-term stability.
