Washed Concrete Sand
Coarse washed sand (ASTM C-33 gradation)
Coarse, washed sand with uniform gradation. The standard bedding sand for pavers and flagstone, a key ingredient in concrete mixes, and clean enough for pipe bedding.
Where it shines
- ✓ Paver and flagstone bedding layer
- ✓ Concrete and mortar mix ingredient
- ✓ Pipe bedding and trench backfill
- ✓ Chicken coop and animal pen flooring
- ✓ Clean sandbox fill (when specified as play-grade)
Not the right choice for
- ✕ Joint filling between pavers (use polymeric sand)
- ✕ Play-grade sandbox (unless specifically sold as washed play sand)
- ✕ Fine finishing under tile or thin-set applications
What is washed concrete sand?
Washed concrete sand is coarse, sharp-edged sand that has been washed to remove silt, clay, and organic material and screened to a consistent gradation — typically meeting ASTM C-33 for concrete aggregates.
The “washed” part matters. Unwashed sand carries fines that weaken concrete, clog paver bedding, and cause settlement. Once washed, you get a clean, predictable material that pours and compacts the same way every load.
Where washed concrete sand shines
- Paver bedding — the 1-inch layer directly under pavers and flagstone. The coarse grain lets you screed to a consistent level and the sharp edges interlock to resist shifting.
- Concrete and mortar mixes — it’s literally what the C-33 spec exists for.
- Pipe bedding — clean enough not to damage pipe, consistent enough to support it uniformly.
Where it’s the wrong choice
Don’t use concrete sand as paver joint filler — pavers need polymeric sand between joints that hardens after installation. And despite the “sand” label, it’s not safe as a sandbox filler unless separately certified as play sand.
Ordering tips
- Bring the product spec if you’re doing concrete work to a specific mix design. We can confirm our source meets it.
- Order 10–15% extra for paver bedding — screeding always eats more than you think.
- Keep it dry if possible. Wet concrete sand is heavy and harder to place uniformly.
Coverage
1 ton of washed concrete sand covers about 100 sq ft at 2" depth. A standard 1" paver bedding layer over 100 sq ft needs roughly 0.5 tons.
Material Calculator — Washed Concrete Sand
Estimate only — add 10–20% for compaction loss on structural material. Ask us for a firm quote before ordering.
Request a Quote for 3.2 Tons →Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between washed concrete sand and mason sand? +
Grain size. Concrete sand is coarse and sharp — great for bedding pavers and mixing concrete. Mason sand is finer and smoother — meant for mortar between bricks and blocks. Using the wrong one creates workability and strength problems.
Can I use washed concrete sand for pavers? +
Yes, for the bedding layer under pavers. For the joints between pavers you want polymeric sand, which hardens and resists weeds and washout.
Is washed concrete sand the same as play sand? +
No. Concrete sand has sharp edges and may contain fines unsuitable for play. Play sand is specifically washed and graded for child safety. Ask specifically for play sand if that's what you need.
How much sand do I need under pavers? +
Standard paver installation calls for a 1-inch bedding layer of washed concrete sand over a compacted road base. A 100 sq ft patio needs about 0.5 tons of bedding sand.
Get a quote for Washed Concrete Sand
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