Choosing materials
Sharp sand, building sand and plastering sand explained
4 min read
What is the difference between sharp sand and building sand?
Sharp sand is coarse and angular, which gives strength in screeds, concrete and paving beds. Building (soft) sand is finer and more workable, which suits mortar for bricklaying and pointing. Plastering sand is finer still and washed, for a smooth render or plaster finish.
Sharp sand
Also called grit or concreting sand. The coarse, angular grains interlock, which is why it is used in concrete, floor screeds and as part of a bedding mix under paving. It is not suitable for bricklaying mortar on its own — the mix would be harsh and hard to work.
Building sand
Often called soft sand. The fine, rounded grains make a smooth, plastic mortar that trowels well, which is what you want for laying bricks and blocks and for pointing. Used in concrete it would weaken the mix.
Plastering sand
A fine, washed and screened sand with low clay content, for render and plaster coats where the finish must be smooth and free of staining particles.
Kiln-dried and jointing sands
Kiln-dried sand is for brushing into the joints of block paving. Resin and polymeric jointing products are alternatives for paving joints and have their own instructions on joint width and slab type — follow those rather than a general rule.
Why it matters
Using the wrong sand shows up as weak mortar, shrinkage cracking, staining or paving that moves. If you tell us what you are building, we will confirm which sand the job calls for and roughly how much you need.
Not sure what to order? Send your measurements through our quote form and we will work the quantities out with you, or call the yard on 01483359553.