A Guide to Concrete Sand: What It Is and How Can Be Used
While you may have seen concrete sand offered by your local building material supplier, you might not yet know what it is and how it can be used. This article from WM Thompson & Son can answer your burning questions about concrete sand, and help you learn why it might be useful for your next construction project.
Understanding Concrete Sand
Concrete sand is a popular building material, commonly used in construction projects. It can be used alone as a base material or in the production of concrete. It is a washed sand, typically made from crushed rock or natural gravel, with particles smaller than gravel but larger than fine sand. Its unique properties make it ideal for creating strong and durable concrete mixtures.
The Properties of Concrete Sand
Often, knowing the properties of concrete sand can help you determine whether it’s right for your next project and suited to your needs. Concrete sand has a coarse texture, and the sand grains that make up concrete sand often have angular edges, which can help them bind better in the concrete mixture and help to create a stronger product. Concrete sand, before purchase, will have been washed and cleaned. This process helps to remove impurities such as clay, silt and organic matter, which are known to weaken concrete.
The Benefits of Concrete Sand
Concrete sand is generally chosen for its strength and durability when used in concrete mixes. When used in concrete, it can provide greater volume, reduce shrinkage, and improve its overall strength. On the other hand, used alone, concrete sand can offer great drainage, with water escaping through the small gaps between the grains.
How It Differs From Other Sand Types
To get a better understanding of concrete sand, it’s often helpful to learn how it differs from other popular types of sand. Masonry sand, for example, is finer and smoother than concrete sand, often used for mortar or plaster rather than for concrete production. Play sand, on the other hand, is incredibly fine and soft, generally designed for children's play areas. This type of sand, entirely unlike concrete sand, is unsuitable for structural purposes. Finally, river sand is a naturally occurring material, meaning it varies in coarseness and quality, whereas concrete sand is artificially produced and is a great way of recycling products.
Reliable Suppliers of Quarry Products in Glasgow
If you think concrete building sand could be right for your next project, our team at WM Thompson & Son can provide you with the high-quality products you’re after. As experts in quarrying services, our concrete products are perfect for groundwork and building projects. Explore our website today to learn more about us and the quarry products we have on offer. Alternatively, for a quote on our services, contact us directly.
