Plastering Sand Bulk Bag

What is Plastering Sand?

Plastering sand, often called rendering sand or fine mortar sand, is a carefully selected aggregate characterised by its fine, consistent grain size. Unlike sharper sands, it contains minimal coarse particles and impurities, having been meticulously washed and sieved. Typically sourced from quarries or sea beds, its quality directly impacts the final plaster or render's:

• Texture: Ensures a smooth, uniform surface ideal for painting or wallpapering.
• Workability: Allows for easier mixing and application, adhering well to surfaces.
• Compactness & Durability: Contributes to a strong, crack-resistant finish once dried.
• Consistency: Reliable grading ensures predictable results batch after batch.

Please Note: The quality of the sand will always remain the same, but the weight might vary due to moisture content. This sand is sourced from sea beds, and excess moisture might be present in the bags.

Weight may vary by +/- 5%. 

Applications

• Internal Plastering: Ideal for both backing coats and achieving smooth final skim coats (when mixed with appropriate plaster).
• External Rendering: Perfect for creating durable, weather-resistant external wall finishes (scratch coats, float coats, top coats).
• Repair Work: Suitable for patching and repairing existing plaster or render.
• Fine Mortars: Can be used for specific pointing tasks requiring a finer joint finish.
• Floor Screed: Sometimes used as a component in finer floor screeds (check specific requirements).
• Decorative Uses: Can be blended with decorative aggregates for landscaping features (though less common than coarser sands for this).

Benefits

• Achieve a Smooth, Professional Finish: Fine grading minimises imperfections, perfect for decoration.
• Excellent Workability: Easy to mix to a smooth, pliable consistency for straightforward application.
• Consistent Quality: Washed and graded for reliable performance bag after bag.
• Enhanced Durability: Contributes to a strong plaster or render surface resistant to cracking.
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for various internal and external plastering and rendering tasks.
• Convenient Bulk Bag Delivery: Cost-effective supply for projects of all sizes.

How to Mix Plastering Sand for Best Results

(Safety Note: Always wear appropriate PPE, including dust mask (FFP3), eye protection, and gloves when handling sand, cement, and lime.)

Disclaimer: The mixing information provided is intended as general guidance only. Mix ratios and required consistency can vary depending on the specific application, other materials used (cement, lime, additives), substrate conditions, and prevailing weather. Always consult manufacturer instructions for proprietary products and seek professional advice if unsure.

Typical Mix Ratios (by Volume):

• General Render/Plaster (Cement based): 1 part Cement : 4-6 parts Plastering Sand
• Traditional Render/Plaster (with Lime for workability): 1 part Cement : 1 part Hydrated Lime : 6 parts Plastering Sand
• Internal Finish Plaster: Often requires specific bagged plaster, but sand may be used in backing coats (check plaster manufacturer's guidance).

Mixing Steps:

• Measure: Accurately measure out your dry ingredients (sand, cement, lime) onto a clean mixing board or into a mechanical mixer.
• Dry Mix: Thoroughly combine the dry ingredients until the colour is uniform throughout.
• Add Water: Gradually add clean water, mixing continuously. Start with less water and add more as needed.
• Achieve Consistency: Mix until you reach a smooth, creamy, workable consistency – it should hold its shape on a trowel without being sloppy or overly stiff.
• Use Promptly: Mix only enough material that can be used within the recommended working time (usually around 1-2 hours).

Understanding Bulk Bag Weight

Plastering sand is a natural material, typically sourced from quarries or dredged seabeds. Due to varying moisture content inherent in these sources and potential rainfall during storage/transit:

• Weight Variation: Please note that the actual weight of your bulk bag may vary by +/- 5% from the stated target weight (e.g., around 850kg +/- 5%). The volume and quality remain consistent.