Sand has many practical implications in construction. From cement to mortar to backfilling retaining walls, sand is a common resource on most construction sites. There are many different kinds of sand, each with a particular use. Understanding the different types of sand is essential to performing your construction project safely and correctly. Here are the five types of sand used in construction and their best uses.
Concrete Sand
Concrete sand is so named because it is used to mix cement, though it can also be used for mixing asphalt or as a base layer for above-ground pools and patios. This common sand is coarse in texture and is comprised of gneiss, trap rock, limestone, or granite. It’s easy to buy concrete sand in bulk.
Crushed Stone
Crushed stone sand is primarily used as a mortar mix for plastering, so it is found on virtually every construction site that involves building. Crushed stone sand is made with granite or basalt rock (or sometimes a combination of both) that has undergone a three-stage crushing process. You may hear this sand described as fine aggregate sand or M sand when you are buying sand in bulk.
Utility Sand
Utility sand is mainly used to backfill pipes, retaining walls, trenches, and more. Most utility sands are made of quartz. Make sure to calculate how much sand you need before purchasing utility sand for fill sand. You can easily find a fill sand calculator on the internet to help you determine the correct amount of sand for your project.
Fill Sand
Fill sand has a very fine consistency which makes it great for compacting. This ability to compact makes fill sand ideal for horse tracks and golf courses. It is used as backfilling, as a base material for concrete, and as filling for large holes.
Beach Sand
Beach sand is not commonly used for direct construction purposes. Beach sand is very absorbent, soft, and fine, which means it is not a great choice for concrete. It is, however, a common choice for patios, volleyball courts, playgrounds, and sand pits intended for recreation. Make sure you know exactly what kind of sand you need for a construction project before buying bulk sand. Buying the wrong sand can be costly and affect the project.
Understanding the different types of construction sands is essential for construction workers. Each type of sand has different practical uses for different projects. Understanding these types of sands will allow you to buy bulk and fill sand with expertise and ease so that your construction projects can go forward without delay.
