Beatsons Concrete Sand / Sharp Sand

Beatsons Concrete Sand, also known as Sharp Sand or grit sand, is a coarse, washed and screened sand for building and landscaping projects. Its gritty, angular texture compacts to a firm, free-draining base, making it ideal for bedding block paving, laying patio slabs and mixing concrete or floor screeds. It is available in an 850kg bulk bag covering approx. 10m² at 50mm depth (2 inches), or a handy 25kg bag covering approx. 0.3m² for smaller jobs and repairs. Choose next-day delivery or Click & Collect from your local Beatsons branch.

Beatsons Concrete Sand / Sharp Sand

Block paving sinking, patio slabs rocking, or concrete that crumbles? The problem is often the wrong sand underneath. Soft building sand holds water and shifts under load, leaving dips and ruts after the first winter. Beatsons Concrete Sand, also known as Sharp Sand or grit sand, has a coarse, angular grain that locks together when compacted and lets water drain through, giving your paving a firm, level bed that stays put.

Washed and screened to a larger grit than building or masonry sand, this gritty sand is used by trades and DIYers alike. It is the go-to bedding sand under block paving and patio slabs, and it is a key ingredient in concrete and floor screed mixes.

Key Features

• Coarse, washed and screened sharp sand with a gritty texture
• Compacts to a firm, stable and free-draining bed
• Ideal for block paving laying courses, patio slab beds, concrete and screeds
• 850kg bulk bag: approx. 10m² at 50mm (2 inch) depth
• 25kg small bag: approx. 0.3m² at 50mm depth, perfect for repairs and small jobs
• Delivery available, or Click & Collect from your local branch

Common Uses

• Block paving: spread, lightly compact and screed as a loose laying course. Do not add cement.
• Patios: mix with cement to create a full mortar bed for paving slabs.
• Concrete: combine with cement and gravel for bases, footings and shed or garage slabs.
• Floor screeds: mix with cement for a strong, level sub-floor.

Coverage Guide

Coverage figures are approximate and based on a loose depth of 50mm. Actual coverage varies with moisture content and how firmly the sand is compacted, so we recommend ordering around 10% extra to allow for levelling and wastage. Need a different depth? Try our Aggregates Calculator.

Handling & Safety

Like all natural sands, sharp sand may contain small amounts of respirable crystalline silica. Avoid breathing dust, and wear gloves and eye protection when handling. When mixing with cement, follow the cement manufacturer's safety advice, as wet cement can cause skin burns. Bulk bags weigh around 850kg and cannot be moved by hand, so make sure your delivery spot is firm, level and accessible.

Why Buy From Beatsons?

Beatsons is rated Excellent on REVIEWS.io, with customers regularly highlighting quick next-day delivery, helpful drivers and branch staff, and competitive prices on building materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between sharp sand and building sand?
Sharp sand is a coarse, angular, washed sand that compacts firmly and drains well, making it ideal for paving beds, concrete and screeds. Building sand is finer and softer, suited to bricklaying mortar.

How much sharp sand do I need?
One 850kg bulk bag covers approx. 10m² at 50mm depth, and one 25kg bag covers approx. 0.3m². Multiply your area (m²) by your depth (m) to get the volume, then allow around 10% extra for levelling and wastage.

Should I mix cement with sharp sand under paving?
See our porcelain slab installation guide here: https://www.beatsons.co.uk/blog/2026/09/laying-porcelain-slabs-on-sand-vs-concrete/

Please note all prices are website prices only! They may vary from the branches.

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