Different Types of Sand in Construction
At a Glance
Sand is a critical construction material, but different types serve different purposes. Sharp sand, building sand and sandfill are common types, each affecting strength, durability, drainage and finish in distinct ways.
Choosing the right sand is essential to achieving the desired performance, longevity, and a professional finish on site. If you’re looking for reliable construction sand suppliers, contact MiddAggs.
Types of Sand Used for Building
Sand may seem like a minor component, but it’s vital for any type and scale of construction project. However, not all sand is the same.
From laying the foundation to adding finishing touches, construction uses many types of sand, each with different properties and uses.
In this guide, we’re exploring the types of sand used in construction so you can choose the most suitable material for your project.
Common Types of Sand in Construction
Sand is used in most, if not all, construction projects. It’s one of the most widely accessible and affordable aggregates. To help you choose the most suitable sand for various aspects of your construction project, here are some of the common types of sand in construction:
1. Sharp Sand (Grit Sand)
Sharp sand is a coarse material with larger grains. Its gritty texture also gives it the name “grit sand” and helps keep structures intact.
Sourced from riverbeds or quarries, our sharp sand varieties are washed and screened to remove impurities. This step ensures you receive clean sand that delivers high performance for construction and landscaping.
Our light-coloured, 0-4mm graded Pentney sharp sand sourced from Pentney quarry is ideal for plastering, rendering and slab-laying work. Our 0-4mm graded, dark orange-coloured Bilney sharp sand is generally suitable for concrete mixing and screeding.
2. Building Sand
Building sand, also called soft sand, is a staple in most construction projects. Its fine-grained texture makes it ideal for bricklaying and pointing.
MiddAggs offers superior-grade building sand varieties, such as Pentney and Caistor Dry-Screened. Our Pentney building sand variety is washed, light in colour and often used in lime mortar mixes. Our ginger coloured, 0-2mm graded Caistor dry-screened building sand is an excellent base for consistent bricklaying mortar.
3. Sandfill
Sandfill is a cost-effective option for a broad range of construction activities.
Middleton Aggregates offers As-Dug and Screened sandfill materials. The As-Dug option suits utilities, bulk fill or trench fill work, while our screened sandfill variety is ideal for use around cable ducts and piping.
Along with these three common sand aggregate varieties, the general industry terms you may come across (not sold under these specific names by MiddAggs) include:
- Cable sand: A fine, screened sand free of sharp stones, specifically processed to backfill safely around underground pipes, cables and utility lines without causing damage.
- Masonry sand or mortar sand: A fine-grained sand used for producing mortar used for bonding bricks, stones or blocks.
- Concrete sand: A sharp, washed sand complying with BS EN 12620. Screened to minimise silt and chemical impurities, it provides maximum compressive strength for structural concrete mixes, floor screeds and block paving bases.
Visit our website to use the Aggregates Calculator and estimate how much of our product you need for your project.
How Sand Choice Affects Strength, Durability and Finish
The type of sand used in construction can directly affect how materials perform once mixed and applied.
Strength
The size and shape of sand are key to strength. Using sharp sands with cement can result in stronger concrete. However, for standard bricklaying mortar, softer, rounder sand varieties are recommended to ensure trowel workability and proper bond adhesion to the bricks.
Durability
You need graded sand to ensure a durable structure. Consistently graded sand can help prevent cracks from developing, shrinkage and water from seeping in. Avoid contaminated or low-quality sand, which may contain clay or silt that can significantly reduce the structure’s lifespan.
Finish
Finer sand varieties are chosen for interior plastering and top-coat finishes to achieve a smooth, uniform surface. However, for exterior rendering, coarser sands are used in the base coats to provide mechanical grip, reduce shrinkage and prevent cracking before applying a fine top coat.
Key Factors to Consider When Purchasing Sand for Construction
Consider reviewing these factors before purchasing the correct type of sand for building and construction work:
- Application: Different types of sand have different purposes. That means using general-purpose sand for specialist work can lead to poor outcomes.
- Cleanliness and consistency: Ensure the sand used is clean, consistent in quality and free of excess clay, salts and organic matter.
- Sourcing and compliance: Connect only with suppliers, such as MiddAggs, who comply with UK Standards for responsible sand sourcing and ensure quality and reliability.
- Delivery: Choose a sand supplier that offers reliable delivery to avoid delays and higher costs.
Why Choose MiddAggs as Your Sand Supplier
With a better understanding of the different types of sand in construction, you’re likely wondering where to purchase construction sand from. Let us help.
Middleton Aggregates is a supplier of aggregates and fill materials, as well as plant and equipment hire services. We’ve been supporting construction projects nationwide with high-quality, consistently graded sand products suitable for a wide range of applications.
Our long-standing presence in the sector, coupled with a strong understanding of construction materials, especially sand and aggregates, makes us a supplier you can trust.
Operating from Blackborough End, King’s Lynn, we serve Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and the wider UK. Our team of industry experts is always available to provide you with the best advice and answer questions you may have.
Call 01553 841044 to request a quote.
