Using the wrong type of sand for construction or landscaping can compromise the strength of a mortar mix, cause pavers to shift, or create drainage problems in a garden bed. At Martins Building & Landscape Supplies, we stock a full range of sands to suit every application — from fine Sydney sand for rendering to coarse Nepean sand for concrete. This guide explains what each sand type is used for, so you can order with confidence.
Why the Right Sand Type Matters
Sand differs in grain size, washing grade, clay content and mineral composition. A sand suited to bricklaying has different properties to one suited to concrete or paving. Using the wrong grade can weaken structural mixes, cause joint failure in paved areas or create compaction issues in earthworks. Getting it right from the start saves money and rework on site.
Types of Sand Available at Martins BLS
| Sand Type | Also Known As | Best Applications | Grain Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney Sand | Beach sand, Newcastle sand | Rendering, plastering, tiling, screeding | Fine |
| Nepean Sand | Washed river sand | Concrete mixes, paving base, drainage | Coarse |
| Coarse Wash Sand | Concrete sand | Structural concrete, heavy-duty mixes | Coarse |
| White Bush Sand | Bricklaying sand | Mortar for bricks, light-coloured joints | Medium |
| Yellow Bush Sand | Building sand | Mortar for hidden or rendered walls | Medium |
| Fill Sand | Bulk fill | Trenches, sub-base, site levelling | Variable |
| Uni Sand (Dried) | Jointing sand | Paving joint fill, landscape edging | Fine, kiln-dried |
Martins stocks sand in 20kg bags or bulk quantities — from 1-tonne bulk bags to truck and dog loads.
Sydney Sand: Fine Washed Sand for Rendering and Plastering
Sydney sand is a triple-washed, fine-grained sand used primarily in rendering, plastering and tiling applications. Its clean, consistent grain size gives smooth mortar mixes and a workable consistency for finishing work. It's also suitable for screeding under tiles and as a base for fine-grade paving applications.
Nepean Sand and Coarse Wash Sand: For Concrete and Paving
Nepean sand is a washed river sand with a coarser grade that makes it ideal for concrete mixes and paving base applications. It provides good drainage characteristics and interlocks well in structural mixes. Coarse wash sand takes this further — it's the preferred sand for heavy-duty concrete and structural applications where a stronger aggregate blend is required.
Bush Sand: White and Yellow for Bricklaying
Both white bush sand and yellow bush sand are used in bricklaying mortar. White bush gives a lighter, cleaner joint finish — preferred for face brickwork where the mortar is visible. Yellow bush sand is the cost-effective choice for mortar in walls that will be rendered or hidden from view.
Fill Sand: Bulk Supply for Earthworks
Fill sand is designed for high-volume applications where structural integrity is less critical: trench backfill, sub-base preparation, site levelling and bulk earthworks. Available in large quantities for civil and commercial jobs, it's the most economical sand option for landscapers and builders who need to shift volume.
Dried Uni Sand: Paving Joint Fill
Uni sand (also called jointing sand) is a kiln-dried, fine-grade sand used to fill the joints between pavers. Its dry, free-flowing consistency allows it to work its way deep into joints, locking pavers in position and resisting weed establishment. It's a key finishing step for any paved driveway, path or courtyard.
Bags or Bulk: Which Quantity Should You Order?
All Martins sands are available in 20kg bags for smaller residential jobs. For landscapers, builders and larger projects, order in 1-tonne bulk bags or loose tipped for better value per tonne. Not sure how much you need? Call our team and we'll help you work it out before you order.
Related Products & Pages
For technical specifications on sand for concrete, refer to Standards Australia (AS 2758.1) or visit Concrete Institute of Australia for guidance on mix design.
Frequently Asked Questions: Construction Sand
What type of sand is used in construction?
It depends on the application. Coarse wash sand and Nepean sand are used in concrete. Bush sand (white or yellow) is used in bricklaying mortar. Sydney sand suits rendering and plastering. Fill sand is used for bulk earthworks. Using the correct grade for each application ensures the right strength and workability.
What is the difference between Sydney sand and Nepean sand?
Sydney sand is a fine, triple-washed sand used for rendering, plastering and tiling. Nepean sand is coarser — it's washed river sand suited to concrete mixes and paving applications. The key difference is grain size and the applications each is rated for.
Can I use fill sand for paving?
Fill sand is not recommended as a paving base or bedding layer. It has inconsistent grain size and insufficient compaction characteristics for paving work. Use Nepean sand or coarse wash sand as a sub-base and uni sand for joint filling.
How much sand do I need for a paving project?
As a general guide, a 30mm bedding layer beneath pavers requires approximately 0.03 cubic metres of sand per square metre. A 40m² patio would need around 1.2 cubic metres of bedding sand. Our team can help calculate the right quantity for your specific job.
What sand should I use for rendering?
Sydney sand (fine washed sand) is the standard choice for rendering. Its clean, consistent fine grain produces a smooth, workable mortar that spreads evenly and adheres well to masonry surfaces.
Do you deliver sand in bulk to Western Sydney?
Yes. Martins BLS delivers sand across the Sydney metropolitan area, including Western Sydney, Parramatta, Penrith, the Hills District and Blacktown. We can supply 20kg bags, 1-tonne bulk bags or loose tipped truck loads to suit your project requirements.
What is the difference between white bush sand and yellow bush sand?
Both are used in bricklaying mortar. White bush sand produces a lighter coloured joint, making it the preferred choice for face brickwork where the mortar is visible. Yellow bush sand is more economical and suits hidden or rendered masonry work.
Need Sand for Your Project?
We stock Sydney's full range of construction and landscaping sands in bags or bulk, with same-week delivery across the metro area.
