What is sharp sand?

Sharp sand, also called grit sand or coarse sand, is a angular-grain aggregate washed to remove fine particles. It differs fundamentally from soft sand (building sand) in grain size and shape. Where soft sand has fine, rounded particles suited to bricklaying mortar, sharp sand has larger, jagged grains that bind together more firmly and allow water to drain.

In paving work, sharp sand serves two critical functions. First, it forms the bedding layer directly beneath concrete flags, porcelain tiles, or natural stone slabs. The coarse texture allows the sand to support and lock the slab in place without shifting. Second, it is mixed into mortar for pointing joints between slabs, where its angular grains create a stronger, more durable bond than soft sand alone.

The drainage properties matter as much as the structural ones. Soft sand can trap water beneath slabs, leading to frost heave in winter or subsidence in wet conditions. Sharp sand lets water pass through, preserving the stability of the finished patio or path. Contractors working on patio installation and repairs specify sharp sand because it resists compaction and weathering better than alternatives.