What coated sand is

Coated sand is kiln dried silica sand with a polymer or acrylic coating. Many versions include antimicrobial protection and tight size grading for predictable performance in landscape turf.

Common features

  • Acrylic or polymer coated silica that resists sticking and clumping.
  • Antimicrobial additive to inhibit odor causing bacteria growth on the infill surface.
  • Consistent grain size for even ballast and stable pile height.
  • Low free dust content for cleaner handling.
  • Color stable options that blend with turf and reduce visual sheen.

Plain washed sand: where it fits

  • Low to moderate foot traffic areas like decorative lawns and side yards.
  • Budgets that prioritize function over extra hygiene features.
  • Regions with regular humidity or rainfall where static is rarely an issue.
  • Spaces without pets, play, or frequent kneeling and contact.

When coated sand is worth it

  • Play areas, family lawns, and schools that need cleaner play surfaces.
  • Pet friendly yards that benefit from odor control and easier cleanup.
  • Dry or indoor settings where static shocks can be noticeable.
  • Commercial entries and paths with frequent foot traffic and abrasion.
  • Rooftops and balconies where tracked dust should be minimized.

Performance factors to compare

Cleanliness and hygiene

Coated options are engineered for low dust handling and often include antimicrobial protection that helps keep surfaces fresher between cleanings. Plain washed sand relies on routine rinsing and grooming alone.

Static control

Dry climates and indoor installs can develop static charge with some infills. Coated formulations are less prone to static buildup, which improves comfort and reduces cling.

Fiber protection and wear

Rounded, coated grains glide through fibers more smoothly, which can reduce fiber abrasion under heavy use. Plain sand still stabilizes the pile effectively when traffic is modest.

Drainage and compaction

Both drain well when properly graded and installed. Coated, uniformly sized grains resist hard compaction and stay more consistent under foot. Plain sand may compact faster if fines are present.

Heat and color

Neither option is a cooling product by itself. Light colored, coated sands can reflect a bit more light and stay cleaner looking over time. For heat reduction, use shade, hydration, or a purpose built cooling infill.

Cost and coverage

  • Material price: coated sand typically costs more per bag than plain washed silica due to the coating and additives.
  • Typical landscape application rate: 1 to 3 pounds per square foot depending on turf pile height and traffic.
  • Total value: higher upfront cost can be offset by cleaner handling, better hygiene, and steadier performance where it matters.

How to choose in 60 seconds

  • If kids or pets are primary users, choose coated sand for a cleaner experience.
  • If the area is low traffic and budget sensitive, plain washed sand is acceptable.
  • If the site is dry or indoors and static annoys users, coated sand helps.
  • If the project is commercial with steady footfall, coated sand maintains appearance longer.
  • If you want the most maintenance flexibility, coated sand gives you more margin.

Installation tips

  • Use kiln dried, washed sand with a target mesh around 16 to 30 for landscape turf.
  • Apply in light lifts with a drop spreader, then power broom to settle between fibers.
  • Top up gradually until fibers are supported and stand upright.
  • Leave 0.25 to 0.75 inch of fiber exposed for a natural look and proper feel.
  • Rinse tools and walkways to keep stray granules out of drains.

Maintenance differences

  • Routine: brush high traffic lanes and top off infill as needed once or twice per year.
  • Pet areas: spot rinse and use enzyme cleaners as needed. Antimicrobial coated sands support odor control.
  • Dust and tracking: coated sand tends to track less on hardscapes, especially right after install.

Safety and compatibility

Choose washed, kiln dried silica or a coated equivalent that is non toxic and compliant with local regulations. Review the product SDS and your turf warranty requirements. Most modern turf systems accept both plain and coated silica infills when installed to spec.

Bottom line

Select the infill that matches traffic, users, and cleanliness expectations. Coated sand is the confident pick for family, pet, and high use spaces. Plain washed sand remains a solid, budget minded choice for light duty landscapes.