Sharp sand Vs builders sand

Question

I'm laying a patio and have heard mixed opinions on which sand I need to use. What sand or mixture should I be using with the cement to lay 
paving flags?

Michael · Accepted Answer

It should be sharp sand but a lot of hard landscapers use a mixture of both.
Building is great for ease of laying the slabs and the moisture will give good grip to the slab, but, it breaks down faster over time.
Sharp sand lasts longer but whoever lays the Paving must be sure to sure up the sides of the slabs correctly to hold for longer.
I prefer a 3:1 ratio 3 parts sharp sand to 1 part building sand (plus cement).
Mike Silvey Paving and Landscaping

Gareth · Answer

Personally I wouldn't lay slabs on a wet cement mix, make sure level is correct and lay a base of sharp sand and place slabs on, either is a jointing compound for pointing, or a cheaper option use a semi dry mix of 9 parts builders sand to 1 part cement... The pointing will hold the slabs in place once it's set! if using the cement mix method make sure you brush it in to gaps quick or it will stain your slabs... If you do lay slabs on cement mix beet to lay it with a dry mix! Best of luck and take your time

Martin · Answer

Only use building sand if you're doing a wet mix use sharp sand if you doing screed mix I would recommend a full bed with building sand

Steven · Answer

You should use sharp sand and cement 4to1 ratio for laying flags

Mark · Answer

Sharp sand for patios and soft sand you use for brick work

Chris · Answer

It should be sharp sand with cement building sand is for making mortar for laying bricks

Christopher · Answer

6 sharp sand to 1 part cement

Sharp sand helps with griping the slabs

Nathan · Answer

Sharpe sand and a 5 to 1 mix. 5 sharpe sand and 1 cement.

Chris · Answer

You should be using sharp sand in a dry mix with cement.

Michael · Answer

Stay away from building sand to lay directly on it won’t last ! You can do I mix of 3.2.1 but no more than that I’d recommend 
4 sharp
2 building 
1 cement

Sharp sand Vs builders sand

Follow Us

Cookies

Manage Cookies

Essential cookies

Analytics & Tracking

Advertising