If you’re planning to build a house in South Africa, choosing the right sand is an essential part of the process. Sand is one of the most important building materials, and the right type of sand can make a significant difference in the quality and longevity of your home. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the types of sand available in South Africa and what you should consider when choosing the right sand for your house construction.
Types of Sand Available in South Africa
River Sand
River sand is a naturally occurring sand found in riverbeds. It is a fine-grained sand that is well-rounded and has a smooth texture. River sand is commonly used for building purposes in South Africa, including house construction, because it is readily available and affordable. However, river sand is not ideal for concrete and mortar as it contains high levels of impurities, which can weaken the structure over time.
Plaster Sand
Plaster sand is a fine-grained sand that is commonly used for plastering and rendering. It has a smooth texture and is free of impurities, making it ideal for use in wall finishes. Plastering sand is also commonly used for laying bricks and blocks as it provides a smooth surface for the bricks to adhere to.
Building Sand
Building sand is a coarse-grained sand that is used for building purposes. It is commonly used for bricklaying, block laying and laying foundations. Building sand is ideal for construction because it is strong and provides good drainage. However, it is not suitable for plastering or rendering as it is too coarse.
Filling Sand
Filling sand is a coarse sand that is used for filling in areas where there is a void or depression. It is also commonly used for backfilling foundations and trenches. Filling sand is not suitable for construction purposes as it does not provide good drainage and is not strong enough to support a structure.
What Kind of Sand Should You Buy for Building a House in SA?
Strength
The sand you choose for construction should be strong enough to support the weight of the structure. Building sand is the best option for laying foundations and walls, while plaster sand is suitable for wall finishes.
Texture
The texture of the sand is also important. Plaster sand should be smooth and fine-grained, while building sand should be coarse-grained.
Drainage
The sand you choose should provide good drainage to prevent water from accumulating around the foundation. Building sand is ideal for this purpose as it allows water to drain away from the structure.
Impurities
The sand you choose should be free of impurities such as clay, silt and organic matter. These impurities can weaken the structure over time. Plaster sand is typically free of impurities, while river sand contains high levels of impurities.
Availability
The sand you choose should be readily available and affordable. River sand is the most commonly used sand in South Africa as it is readily available and affordable. However, it is not suitable for concrete and mortar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when building a house in South Africa, it’s essential to choose the right type of sand for your construction project. Building sand is the best option for laying foundations and walls, while plaster sand is suitable for wall finishes. Make sure the sand you choose is strong, provides good drainage and is free of impurities. By choosing the right sand, you can ensure the longevity and quality of your home.
