Sand

The main difference between sharp sand and building sand is the size and shape of the grains, which determines how each type of sand behaves. Sharp sand is typically used for mixing concrete and laying paving slabs whereas building sand is primarily used for bricklaying mortar.

Yes, you can use building sand instead of sharp sand, but only in certain situations. It is not advised that you use building sand for concrete mixes, however you can use building sand instead of sharp sand for applications such as bricklaying, pointing and rendering.

Sharp sand is the best choice for laying paving slabs due to its drainage properties. The coarse profile of sharp sand means that it helps to create a firm, well-draining layer beneath your paving slabs, whereas building sand is too fine to achieve the same results.

Use building sand for mortar and pointing, and use sharp sand for rendering. Building sand is great for mortar  as its spreads and bonds well. For pointing, building sand will allow you to create a traditional mortar finish. For rendering, sharp sand is commonly used for the base coat.

Washed sand simply means sand that has been washed with water during processing to remove unwanted fine material such as clay, silt and dust. Washed building sand results in a more predictable mix which leads to better consistency.

Due to drainage requirements, the best sand to use under artificial grass is sharp sand. Sharp sand underneath your artificial grass will provide good drainage and a smooth base. Building sand underneath artificial grass is not recommended as it is finer and can retain more water.

Yes, you can use sharp sand to top dress or level a lawn. Sharp sand is suitable when you are making minor corrections, however for general levelling, a top dressing mix would be preferred.

Combining sharp sand with topsoil and compost as a mixture can create faster results.

A typical 800kg bulk bag of sand from Mick George will require roughly 250kg of cement to create 600-700 litres of mortar, at a ratio of 4:1 sand to cement mix.