When we think of building strong and durable structures, we often think of materials like concrete, steel, and wood. But one material that often goes unnoticed is sand. Sand plays a critical role in creating strong and durable structures, and it is an essential component of many construction materials. In this article, we will explore the role of high quality sand in building strong and durable structures.
Where is sand used in construction projects?
Sand is used in construction projects in many ways. It can be used to create many different types of concrete and mortars, and is typically used in formwork, slate, granite, concrete, porcelain, plaster, and brick for buildings. It can also be used to construct public works like tunnels, refurbish work in railway facilities, demolish masonry, and abrasively clean concrete.
It’s more common to find coarse river sand in construction and is used as screed to level out floors and as a bedding sand for paving. Bulk filling sand is used for raising levels, filling gaps and holes, paving, and asphalt. Your construction quality will depend greatly on the quality and purity of the sand being used. If sand is mixed with other materials, it can wear quickly, and need replacing sooner.
Building strong concrete with quality sand
One of the most important uses of sand in construction is as a component of concrete. Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, and aggregate, with sand serving as the aggregate. The sand helps to fill the voids in the mixture, providing additional strength and stability to the concrete. When combined with the right amount of water and cement, the concrete sets and hardens to form a solid structure that can withstand significant loads and stress.
The strength of the concrete depends on the quality and purity of the sand being used. If sand is mixed with other materials, it can wear quickly, and need replacing sooner.
Concrete is used in many construction projects, including buildings, bridges, roads, and dams. It is a versatile and durable material that can be used in many different ways. For example, it can be used to create walls, floors, and ceilings, as well as to form the foundation of a building. It can also be used to create decorative elements, such as statues and fountains.
How good quality mortar is made from sand
Sand is used to make mortar for brickwork by mixing it with cement and water. Mortar is a mixture of sand, cement, and water that is used to hold bricks in place. The sand in the mixture provides a strong bond between the bricks and the mortar, ensuring that the structure is stable and secure. It is important to choose the right type of sand for mortar, as some sands can contain impurities that weaken the bond and reduce the strength of the structure.
When mixing mortar, sand is an essential component. At the initial construction stage, high-quality building sand is crucial. This is the most popular choice of sand when it comes to bricklaying. It is a soft sand, but when mixed with cement and water, it creates a perfect mix. The right mortar will need the right sand, and in bricklaying, builders’ sand is most used. While it is possible to use other sands, such as plastering sand or even artificial sand, bricklayers will prefer using builders’ sand, as it creates a mortar that is pliable, flexible, and fit for purpose
Creating plaster finishes using sand
Plastering sand, sometimes called plasterer’s sand, is a fine-grained sand that has been washed to remove all silt, salt, and clay within it. This is done to give it a smooth finish and to reduce both cracking and shrinking when dried. Sand provides a smooth surface for the plaster or renders to adhere to, resulting in a professional finish. Sand is very absorbent, which helps to create a strong bond between the plaster or render and the surface it is applied to. Plasterers sand is used to make plaster, as the name implies. Plasterers sand is finer than regular sand, and it contains binders that help to hold the plaster in place. In addition, plasterers sand is also highly absorbent, which helps to keep the plaster work dry and free from defects
Find the right sand from a trusted Perth sand supplier today
Sand plays a crucial role in creating strong and durable structures. From its use in concrete and mortar to its role in providing a smooth finish for plaster, sand is an essential component in the construction industry. When choosing sand for your next construction project, it is important to select a high-quality sand from a reliable supplier to ensure that your structure will be strong and durable for years to come
CRI Sands are a leading provider of premium sand in Perth, with a focus on top-quality products and sustainable operations.
Get in touch today to buy quality sand, or with any queries about the superior clean sand and washed white sand products.