When you’re planning a new patio or walkway in Dover, NJ, there’s a good chance you’ve found yourself wondering: What’s the best type of sand to use under pavers? It’s a great question — and if you’re aiming for a smooth, durable finish that can handle our unpredictable New Jersey seasons, you’ll want to choose the right materials from a trusted local supplier.
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we’ve been helping homeowners, contractors, and DIYers in the Dover area for years. We know firsthand how crucial it is to pick the right sand, especially with the freeze-thaw cycles we see here in Morris County. Whether you’re tackling a small backyard patio or a sprawling outdoor living space, let’s dig into the best sand options for pavers — and make sure you’re set up for success.
Why the Right Sand Matters in Dover, NJ
Before we get into the specific sand types, it’s worth understanding why sand choice matters so much, especially here in Dover. Our local climate brings everything from hot, humid summers to icy, slushy winters. This means your paver base needs to drain well, lock your pavers in place, and prevent shifting as the ground expands and contracts.
You don’t want to spend time (and money) on a beautiful paver project, only to see weeds sneaking through the cracks or uneven surfaces developing after the first winter freeze. Trust us — we’ve seen it happen more than we’d like to!
With that in mind, let’s go over the top sand options available at Kirk Allen Landscape Supply — and which ones we recommend for your Dover paver project.
1. Concrete Sand: The Go-To Choice for Paver Bases
When locals ask us what sand we recommend first, Concrete Sand is almost always the answer. This coarse sand has angular grains that lock together tightly, making it perfect for setting pavers. Unlike finer sands that can shift over time, Concrete Sand provides stability and excellent drainage — exactly what you need to handle Dover’s mix of rain, snow, and everything in between.
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, our Concrete Sand is screened and washed, so you’re getting high-quality material that’s ready to use right out of the yard. It works well as both a base layer and as a joint filler between pavers, which is great if you want an all-in-one solution.
Pro Tip:
If you’re installing a patio near Dover High School or over by Hurd Park, Concrete Sand will help prevent water from pooling under your pavers, which is especially helpful in lower-lying areas after heavy rains.
2. Mason Sand: Perfect for Paver Joints
While Concrete Sand is great for the base, Mason Sand shines when it comes to filling the joints between pavers. It’s finer and more uniform than Concrete Sand, making it easier to sweep into tight spaces and achieve a smooth finish.
Kirk Allen’s Mason Sand is clean and consistent, which is important because you don’t want impurities that can promote weed growth. Plus, the color of Mason Sand complements most paver shades beautifully — especially if you’re using natural stone or lighter concrete pavers for a patio overlooking Rockaway River.
When to use:
If you want a sleek, polished look for your paver project in Dover, Mason Sand is a top choice for the finishing touches.
3. Delaware River Blend: A Decorative Option for Accent Borders
Now, if you’re looking to elevate your design with something a little more decorative, consider using Delaware River Blend. While technically more of a decorative gravel, this blend can be used alongside sand to create attractive borders or drainage channels around your paver patio.
Imagine hosting a barbecue at your Dover backyard with smooth, colorful stones framing your patio — it’s these details that make your space feel like an outdoor oasis. Plus, the Delaware River Blend is locally sourced and fits right in with the natural beauty of our region.
Bonus:
It also helps with water management, preventing erosion around the edges of your paver installation.
4. Stone Dust: A Compactable Alternative
For some DIYers and contractors, Stone Dust is a tempting option for paver bases. It compacts tightly and creates a very solid foundation. However, it does hold water more than Concrete Sand, so while it can work well for walkways and garden paths, it’s important to consider proper drainage — especially here in Dover, where melting snow can become an issue in early spring.
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, our Stone Dust is finely crushed and easy to work with, making it a practical option for those looking for a smooth, even base under lighter loads.
Local Insight:
If you’re laying a small garden path near Hedden Park or creating a decorative walkway in your yard, Stone Dust could be a great fit — just be sure to add proper drainage.
5. Yellow Sand: A Versatile Option for Various Projects
Don’t overlook Yellow Sand — a versatile material that’s great for general leveling and bedding. It’s often used in masonry work, but many of our Dover customers appreciate it for its affordability and ease of use when working on casual paver projects.
Whether you’re setting pavers for a fire pit area or doing touch-up work around your existing patio, Yellow Sand from Kirk Allen Landscape Supply is a reliable choice.
Local Dover Advice: Climate, Soil, and Success
In Dover, we’re no strangers to the challenges of outdoor projects. Between heavy rainfalls in early spring and frost heaving in the winter, our soil conditions demand attention to detail. Using the right sand can make all the difference in protecting your paver installation from common pitfalls like shifting, sinking, or weed invasion.
Always remember to compact your base layers properly and ensure good drainage. And when in doubt, give us a call — we’re more than happy to talk through your project and recommend the best materials.
Ready to Get Started? Visit Kirk Allen Landscape Supply Today!
Choosing the best sand for pavers in Dover, NJ doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you go with Concrete Sand for a rock-solid foundation, Mason Sand for picture-perfect joints, or Delaware River Blend for decorative flair, you can count on Kirk Allen Landscape Supply to provide top-quality materials.
We’re proud to serve our Dover neighbors and beyond with reliable, locally sourced products. Stop by our yard, give us a call at +1 973-347-3117, or chat with our friendly team about your next project.
No matter the size of your job, Kirk Allen Landscape Supply is here to help you build a beautiful, lasting outdoor space right here in Dover.
