Last updated December 3, 2025

What’s the difference between Gator Maxx and Gator Nitro?

Gator Maxx and Gator Maxx G2 are polymeric sands while Gator Nitro and Nitro-X are resin sands. There are several key differences between these two joint materials:

1. Installation (Weather): Polymeric sand requires completely dry conditions for a successful installation. With Gator Maxx G2, the temperature must be above 32°F (0°C) with a minimum of 15 minutes of dry weather following the installation. For regular Gator Maxx, a full hour of dry weather is needed following the installation. Resin sand, sometimes referred to as wet sand, involves a wet installation. While the temperature should be above 37°F (3°C) when installing Gator Nitro and Nitro-X, both of these products can be applied rain or shine.

2. Installation (Method): Gator Maxx and Gator Maxx G2 gets swept into the paver joints using a broom and is then compacted. These steps are repeated until the compacted sand sits 1/8” below the chamfer of the paver. A blower is typically used to remove any remaining sand from the paved surface prior to activating the sand with water. On a Gator Nitro or Nitro-X job, the entire surface area (along with nearby surrounding areas and any tools being used) gets wet down first. The sand is then spread on the surface, thoroughly wet down with water, and then pushed into the joints using a squeegee. The joints should be filled to 1/8” below the chamfer of the paver — but no compaction is required.

3. Base Types: Both Gator Maxx and Gator Maxx G2 can be used on a variety of different bases including traditional, Gator Base, and concrete overlays that properly account for drainage. Because Gator Nitro and Nitro-X are considered permeable joint materials, they can only be used on a base that drains. Both products are ideal for hybrid or open grade base applications.

4. Application Types: Gator Maxx and Gator Maxx G2 are approved for both residential and commercial applications, pedestrian and vehicular alike. Nitro and Nitro-X are approved for commercial and residential pedestrian applications, as well as residential driveways.

5. Consistency: Polymeric sand is meant to cycle. It will soften and become flexible when wet. After it fully dries again, it will harden back up. The ability to cycle makes polymeric sand a great option for projects that may be impacted by freeze and thaw. Resin sand, like Nitro and Nitro-X, act more like concrete and are designed to harden from top to bottom. These products should only be installed if the pavers or stones are completely secure, otherwise cracking may occur.

6. Joint Width: Polymeric sand is great for paver designs featuring a narrow joint width. Both Gator Maxx and Gator Maxx G2 can be used in joints as narrow as 1/8.” Because of its fine particle size and Rapid Flow Technology, Nitro-X can also be used in narrow joints (a minimum of 1/8”). Regular Nitro is a thicker, gummier material and requires a minimum joint width of 3/16.”

7. Cure Time: Polymeric sand cures once it has fully dried out after being installed. The cure time is weather dependent, but generally takes 48 hours in dry conditions. Nitro and Nitro-X will fully cure after 24 hours.