EnviroSAND, designed specifically for paving stone joints, combines a scientifically designed jointing sand, with the plant based, Organic-Lock glue binder for joint lock-up in interlocking pavement systems.
CONTROLS AGAINST WASHOUT: EnviroSAND substantially reduces joint sand loss in paver systems caused by wind and rain erosion. Whenever it is activated by water, EnviroSAND forms an adhesive gel, bonding sand particles together. This gel physically holds the sand together, while creating a thin film on the surface whenever it is wet. This film, acts as a buffer zone for which the water can travel over.
WEED DETERRENT: In a properly installed segmental pavement system, weeds should not grow from beneath the surface material. A properly prepared base keeps these weeds from growing up to the surface.
Weed growth typically appears when seeds get trapped into the open joints of the paving system. EnviroSAND works to prevent open crevices by resisting against erosion. On top of this, EnviroSAND has developed its binder with a naturally elevated pH system that creates a toxic environment in which seedlings can’t germinate. By preventing these seeds from germinating, EnviroSAND deters nuisance weed growth.
INSECT DETERRENT: By creating a system bound by a gel, insects have a difficult time maneuvering through the material, preventing burrowing and infestation.
SELF-REPAIRING: Shifting and movement are common and necessary occurrences in a segmental paving system. The organic glue in EnviroSAND swells and grips on to its surrounding particles each time it comes in contact with water. This allows for the material to shift with the joint and repair itself back to a stable system each time there is movement.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: EnviroSAND is truly a green product. It is made from all-natural materials. The active ingredient in the glue, is a renewable plant resource.
EnviroSTONE combines crushed aggregate screenings with the organic binder for larger joints (such as flagstone, etc.) to provide the same functionality described above for EnviroSAND.
About Envirobond Products Corporation
Envirobond recently celebrated its ten year anniversary on March 29, 2011. President, CEO and Founder, Mike Riehm completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental/Agricultural Science at the University of Guelph. During this time, Mike began his studies on the properties of natural swellable gums as a key proponent for erosion control products. Mike’s focus was to use the technology found in nature to create uniquely functional products for a specific use. By mixing a powdered plant gum with crushed aggregate, Envirobond was created as an alternative to asphalt for trails and pathways. This trail way product, when activated by water, hardened up and provided erosion resistance against washouts.
Shortly after the success of the trail way product, it was noticed that contractors began using it as a joint filler for large natural stone joints, such as flagstone. This niche market was uncovered as a tremendous opportunity.
In March of 2001, Envirobond Products Corporation was founded to launch its line of bagged jointing materials into the hard landscaping (known as Hardscaping) industry. EnviroSTONE combines crushed aggregate screenings with the organic binder for larger joints (such as flagstone, etc.). EnviroSAND combines fine jointing sand with the organic binder designed specifically for paving stone joints.
By using the gelling properties of the plant product, the EnviroSAND and EnviroSTONE effectively controlled erosion and prevented the jointing material (typically loose sand) from washing out of the joints. However, because this plant based glue was organic, it was prone to natural biodegradation. Although the product was incredibly functional and successful, its lifespan became a limiting factor.
Immediately, Envirobond began research on developing improvements to prevent this rapid biodegradation. Continual field studies and research projects with professors from the University of Guelph as well as top natural gum scientists from Agriculture Canada were instrumental in the discovery and advancement of the new technology that put Envirobond on the map. This discovered technology not only improved the longevity of the glue, but it also improved the strength as well as added a level of natural weed deterrence. In 2004, Envirobond filed for its first patent.
Envirobond now manufactures and sells EnviroSAND and EnviroSTONE in Canada, USA and over seven countries in Europe. Envirobond has become a staple product for the professional contractor marketplace for the past ten years. With a continual focus on green science research, Envirobond has maintained a working relationship (over six years) with Agriculture Canada as its lead arm on all elements of research and development. By focusing on a renewable plant resource as the key ingredient, Envirobond is proud to say “We were Green before Green was cool”.
