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Ask your QuestionI am just about to lay a patio and have been sent Grit/Concrete Sand instead of Sharp Sand. Can this be used to create a Mortar mix or do I need to add additional softer sand?
Asked by Michael on 30th May 2020Best Answer
"Grit sand is better for patio as will dry with harder base lay a full bed under slab"
Answered on 30th May 2020 - Member since Feb 2020 - report"Ideally you would use soft sand or you could use pave joint"
Answered on 5th Jun 2020 - Member since Feb 2016 - report"You ideally need sharp sand as it will take longer to break down so will last longer. Mix it with cement and water at a 5 to 1 ratio. 5 parts sharp sand 1 part cement and water as required.
Builders sand is easier to use but breaks down, ballast creates gaps under the slab and can lead to more broken slabs whilst laying."
"I would personally order a softer sand as it would probably make it easier to lay ."
Answered on 2nd Aug 2020 - Member since Jul 2019 - report"Grit sand made with cement makes for a good base to lay slabs on as it sets solid like concrete, all you have to ensure is that you get full coverage of the flag laid"
Answered on 28th Jun 2020 - Member since Sep 2017 - report"Yes this would work but if exceptionally gritty try adding some building sand to the mix."
Answered on 8th Jun 2020 - Member since Jan 2020 - report"You need to use sharp sand as concreting sand is too harsh, if you are laying natural stone each one will need sealing first before laying"
Answered on 10th Jul 2020 - Member since Apr 2020 - report"Yes it can, make your mix as 4 sand to one part cement"
Answered on 30th May 2020 - Member since Feb 2020 - report"No I wouldn't use grit and concrete I would always lay on sharp and and cement mix"
Answered on 26th Jun 2020 - Member since Jul 2019 - report