Yes, building sand is suitable and commonly used for block paving projects.
Understanding Building Sand
Building sand, also known as builder's sand or construction sand, is a type of sand used widely in the construction industry. It is a versatile material known for its fine grains and consistency, making it ideal for mixing with other materials like cement and water to create mortar or concrete, as well as for use as a bedding layer.
Applications of Building Sand
Builder's sand has a wide range of uses in construction and landscaping. According to industry uses, builder's sand and the construction materials it helps to create can be used for a huge range of building applications, such as laying patios, block paving and concrete paving, plastering and rendering work, bedding pond liners, and many other general building processes.
Here are some common applications:
- Mortar production: Mixing with cement and water to create mortar for bricklaying and blockwork.
- Concrete mixing: As an aggregate component in certain types of concrete.
- Bedding layers: Providing a stable base layer for paving, such as patios and block paving.
- Rendering and plastering: Used in mixes for finishing walls.
Here is a summary of applications based on common usage:
| Application Type | Role |
|---|---|
| Patios | Suitable for laying |
| Block Paving | Used for laying and as a bedding layer |
| Concrete Paving | Suitable for laying |
| Plastering | Component in plaster mixes |
| Rendering | Component in render mixes |
| Pond Liners | Used for bedding |
| General Building | Used in various construction processes |
Using Building Sand for Block Paving
Specifically for block paving, building sand is typically used as the crucial bedding layer upon which the blocks are laid. This layer serves several important functions:
- Levelling: It provides a flat, even surface for the blocks to rest on.
- Flexibility: It allows for minor adjustments when laying the blocks.
- Drainage: While not the primary drainage layer (that's usually the sub-base), the sand layer contributes to water movement beneath the surface.
After the blocks are laid onto the compacted building sand layer, a different type of sand, often kiln-dried sand, is brushed into the joints between the blocks to lock them in place. However, the initial bedding layer is where builder's sand proves highly effective due to its workability and fine composition suitable for creating a smooth, consistent base.
