Sand is one of the crucial ingredients for construction, hence choosing the right one would make much more sense than using any type and then suffering the consequences later. But unless you know what options you have; it is not easy to differentiate between different types of sand for construction.
In this article, we look at the common options available from the manufacturers that are used in most places. There are three types of sand that have proven to be most useful for construction purposes. Each one has their own properties and uses. Here’s a short take at each one of them:
River Sand
One of the most common types of sand that people use in most places, mainly due to it being available so readily compared to other types. River sand can generally be found near the river side.
More often than not, this sand type is grey in color and the grain particles are mostly round. Even though it’s available naturally, it is still superior to some other types of sand used for construction. In most places, this type of sand is mostly used during the process of plastering, pavements, and so on.
Pit Sand
Like the name suggests, this type of sand is generally obtained from digging deep pits in various places. Compared to other types of sands, the sand particles of pit sand are coarser and have sharp edged grains.
Pit sand is considered one of the best types to be used for concrete construction since its grains do not contain any salt and are jagged making them ideal for the purpose. This sand generally has an orange-red color, which makes it easier to identify from other types.
M-Sand
Also known as artificial sand, M-sand is one of the best alternatives to river sand that you can find in the market. Manufacturers usually produce this type of sand in their factories by crushing granite rock.
However, there are some manufacturers who instead use basalt rock for M-sand production. An effective method to produce M-sand is by using a crushing technique that involves cutting edge technology and state of the art machineries for rock hit rock method to crush the stones or rocks.
Compared to other types of sand available in the market, M-sand is much smoother and stronger material for construction. Since it is manufactured artificially, manufacturers have been able to produce it to withstand harsh conditions throughout the world. It offers higher strength, durability and leakproof build for a sturdy build.
How to Choose the Right Option?
Though there are more than one type of sand available for construction, you should always look at your construction requirements before choosing a type of sand. But in general cases, you should avoid sand materials that may contain organic materials in them.
Further, try to look for a manufacturer that offers your sand without any impurities such as salt or iron. Sand containing alkalies is also not ideal for best construction builds. And finally, pay attention to the slit size of the sand, which should be extremely low in an ideal sand product.
When choosing a sand type for home construction purposes, it is important to look at three key factors. These include the quality of the sand, how much it costs you to obtain, and how easily can it be obtained, i.e., its availability.
Local availability is a big factor when it comes to choosing the right sand material for construction. Most sand manufacturers would suggest you to go with M-sand, as it is built with precision and durability in mind.
