Most people do not know there is a different type of sand for plastering. Usually, river sand that occurs naturally is used for any type of plastering work. While for bricklaying, normal sand is widely used to give your building walls an aesthetic appeal or a protective covering, it is better to use plastering sand. Plastering sand is different from building sand. It is finer-grained and clean that can be used for internal and external rendering.
What is plastering sand?
Plastering sand is fine-grained sand that is washed to remove salt, clay, and other dirt from within it. The grains are smooth and round, with no sharp edges. So, when it is used, there is a lower risk of salt stains or atmospheric moisture absorption and gives a smooth finish to where it is applied. Since when dried, it neither shrinks nor cracks, it is a preferred choice over the normal sand for rendering.
Where can you use the plastering sand?
Plastering sand is predominantly used in construction works mainly for two reasons, rendering and plastering. It is primarily used when mixing plaster for walls.
Plastering: The sand is used for making an even coating of mortar mixtures on the underlying brickwork and the ceiling of the house. The smooth and attractive finish this plaster renders; makes it easier to paint and apply tiles or wallpaper. Since the plastering sand is already washed, it reduces the risk of moisture absorption. When applied, it gives a crack-free and consistent finish. It can be used to fill up cracks.
Rendering: In terms of construction, rendering is about forming a coat on the exterior walls of a building. If you are using coarse or gritty sand to lay the bricks and give strength to the building, you must use finer sand for the finishing coat. It not only gives attractive look but also protects it from fire and water.
When to mix plastering sand in mortar?
For any construction work, you need to create a mortar mixture. It is nothing but a mixture of sand, cement, and water. But, for different areas, you need the ingredients in varied proportions. The sand you will select will also differ. Harsher sand is suitable for bricklaying purposes, Plaster Sand can be used to make plastering and rendering of preferably the internal walls. It will give a smooth finish with a flat surface that will be later easier to paint over.
