Aggregates

Concrete sand, often referred to as washed concrete sand or washed all-purpose sand, is a coarse aggregate primarily used in concrete mixtures. It's characterized by its:
Coarse, Sharp Grains: The individual sand particles are angular and larger than those found in masonry sand, typically ranging from 0.02 to 0.19 inches (0.5 to 5 mm) in size. This angularity provides excellent interlocking capabilities within a concrete matrix.
Washed Cleanliness: As the name suggests, concrete sand undergoes a washing process to remove impurities like silt, clay, and organic matter. This cleanliness is paramount because these fine particles can weaken the bond within concrete and lead to cracking.
High Silica Content: It's generally composed of a high percentage of silica, contributing to its hardness and durability.
Color Variation: The color can vary depending on the source quarry, often appearing in shades of gray, tan, or brown.
Primary Uses:
Concrete Production: This is its most significant application, providing bulk and strength to concrete for foundations, slabs, pavements, and precast concrete products.
Asphalt Mixes: Used as a fine aggregate in asphalt for roads and driveways.
Pipe Bedding: Provides a stable and permeable base for underground pipes.
Drainage Systems: Can be used in certain drainage applications due to its good permeability.

Masonry sand, also known as mortar sand or brick sand, is a finer, more consistent sand specifically designed for use in mortar and stucco applications. Key characteristics include:
Fine, Uniform Grains: Unlike concrete sand, masonry sand has smaller, more rounded particles, typically ranging from 0.002 to 0.08 inches (0.05 to 2 mm). This consistent, fine texture is essential for creating a smooth, workable mortar.
Controlled Sieve Analysis: Masonry sand is carefully screened to ensure a specific particle size distribution, which is critical for consistent mortar strength and workability.
Minimal Impurities: While also washed, the focus is on removing very fine silts and clays that could compromise the bond of the mortar.
Consistent Color: Often a light tan or off-white, though variations exist based on the geological source.
Primary Uses:
Mortar for Masonry: The primary use for laying bricks, blocks, and stones, providing the necessary bond and workability.
Stucco and Plaster: Essential for achieving smooth finishes and good adhesion in stucco and plaster applications.
Joint Sand for Pavers: Used to fill the joints between pavers, providing stability and flexibility.
Volleyball Courts and Playgrounds: Its fine, soft texture makes it suitable for these recreational areas.

Crushed angular rock from 1/2" to 1" (12.5–25 mm), washed to remove fines. Highly permeable for excellent drainage and very durable.

Primary uses: concrete aggregate, asphalt mixes, drainage systems, driveway/road base, backfill, and railroad ballast.

A blended, dense-graded material with a wide range of particle sizes (up to 1.5–2") down to fines. The fines allow it to compact tightly into a stable, dense base. Low permeability.

Primary uses: base material for roads, driveways and foundations, sub-base, and compacted fill.

A finer washed crushed stone predominantly around 1/2" (12.5 mm), with fines removed. Highly permeable with a smoother, more finished appearance than #57 stone.

Primary uses: French drains and pipe bedding, decorative stone, ready-mix concrete, and asphalt topping.

A well-graded, dense material similar to Class 4 but with stricter quality control — coarse aggregates (often up to 2"+) down to fines. Engineered to compact exceptionally well. Low permeability.

Primary uses: high-performance road base, building pads and foundations, structural fill, and sub-ballast.