Sand

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Sand may be the most widely used building material of all.

Sand is tiny stone particles, mostly quartz. It comes in different varieties, each one better for certain tasks. In most cases another sand type can be used instead if necessary.

Today the majority of building sand is dredged from the sea bed.

Types of Sand

Sharp sand & builder's sand are the most popular sands. Both are used for brickwork and bedding paving. Cue argument about what should be used for what...

Builder's Sand

General purpose building sand
somewhat rounded grain shape
dredged from the sea bed
May contain some clay
tends to contain some salt
For kid's sandpits choose clay free yellow sand to avoid stain
Red sand with lime can produce a light pink mortar (gently brushing the surface when 'green' (softly set) exposes more of the red sand)

Sharp Sand

Grittier than builder's sand
contains larger particles too

Kiln Dried Sand

aka Jointing sand
Minimal clay content for good stability
Dried sand flows well with no stickiness
Used for filling block paving joints

Silver Sand

Fine sand
Used in final plaster coat
Light iron-free colour

Suppliers

Nearly all building material outlets sell sand. It can also be obtained from

garden centres
...

Alternatives

Occasionally alternatives to sand are used, such as stone waste. See Mortar Mixes

Sand

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