Different types of sand explained

Aggregates. It’s a broad term that covers granular materials used in construction: sand, grit, gravel, limestone, granite, right through to various decorative stones and chippings.

These materials tend to be bought and sold in large batches, often intended for the purpose of a specific building project. 

As you’d expect, aggregates have a wide range of uses so it’s important to be aware of where different materials are best utilised, both in construction and as decoration. We’ll be looking closer at one of the most widely used aggregates in the building trade – sand. 

Different sand; different uses 

Building sand

Sand is an essential component when it comes to mixing mortars, which means trade quality building sand is absolutely crucial as part of the initial construction stage. 

Mix with cement and water to make bricklaying mortar. We stock both 25kg and bulk bag options, you can buy our building sand here.

Building Sand Features 

• Multi-purpose

• Finely graded

• Red       
  

Grit sand

This is a coarse, sharper sand ideal for floor screeds, block paving or laying under flagstones. Grit sand has a slightly larger grain size than other types of sand, which means it’s also slightly heavier. 

Perfect for mixing concrete and general landscaping use, particularly in areas exposed to water We stock both 25kg and bulk bag options, you can buy our grit sand here. 

Grit Sand Features

• Ideal base for flagging, paving and artificial grass.

• Coarsely graded

• Brown 
  
  

Dry Pavior Sand

Also known as ‘Paver’ or ‘Block Filling’ sand, this kiln-dried silica sand is commonly used to fill joints between paving slabs, enabling a close and tight bond. It actually contains silicon dioxide, hence the name. 

This is a fine sand that can also help to prevent the appearance of any unsightly weeds that may be sprouting up on your front drive or patio. We stock both 25kg bags and bulk bags, you can buy our dry pavior sand here

Dry Pavior Sand Features

• Very finely graded

• For use in block paving

• Kiln-dried
  
  

Plastering Sand 

This is a clean, washed river sand that’s specifically intended for rendering and plastering use. 

It’s also known as Leighton sand by some, a reference to the quarry where a vast quantity of this type of sand is found.

We stock both 25kg and bulk bag options, you can buy our plastering sand here. 

Plastering Sand Features

• Ideal for plastering and rendering

• Finely graded

• Red
  
  

If you’d like to speak to one of the team, please get in touch at sales@georgehill.co.uk, give us a ring on 0161 627 2020.