What Is Concrete Sand and Why Does It Matter?
If you're a contractor pouring a driveway or patio in Roseville, or a homeowner tackling a DIY slab in the Sacramento area, choosing the right concrete sand makes all the difference. Concrete sand provides the coarse texture needed for strong, workable mixes that hold up to local weather and heavy use.
At Roseville Landscape Supply, we stock high-quality concrete sand that's washed and screened for consistent results on every job.
Concrete sand is a coarse, washed aggregate sand specifically graded for mixing concrete. Unlike finer sands, it features angular grains that interlock with cement and larger aggregates to create dense, durable concrete with minimal shrinkage.
Here in Roseville and the greater Sacramento area, where temperature swings and occasional heavy rains test concrete work, quality sand prevents common issues like cracking or weak spots. Low-quality or unwashed sand can introduce clay or silt that weakens the mix and leads to failures down the line.
Our concrete sand at Roseville Landscape Supply is:
- Washed and screened for consistency
- Free of clay, silt, and debris
- Ideal for driveways, patios, walkways, and foundations
- Perfect for structural projects that need to last
Concrete Sand vs. Mason Sand vs. Plaster Sand: Key Differences
We often get asked how concrete sand stacks up against other options we carry. Here's a clear breakdown:
| Sand Type | Grain Size & Texture | Primary Uses | Best For | Common Mistakes to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete Sand | Coarse, angular grains | Mixing concrete (with gravel/aggregates) | Driveways, slabs, patios, structural pours | Using it for mortar—too coarse for smooth finishes |
| Mason Sand | Finer, smoother | Mortar for block laying, brickwork | Masonry joints, under pavers | Substituting for concrete mix—lacks strength |
| Plaster Sand | Fine, washed | Stucco, plaster, or fine concrete finishes | Pool bases, paver leveling, filling low spots | Overusing in structural concrete—can cause weakness |
For most concrete pours in Roseville projects, start with concrete sand as the base. Pair it with plaster sand if you need a finer finish on top coats.
Recommended Aggregates to Pair with Concrete Sand
Strong concrete needs more than just sand. Combine our concrete sand with these aggregates we stock:
3/4" Crushed Rock — Angular pieces for excellent interlocking and strength. Ideal for driveways and heavy-load slabs.
3/8" Pea Gravel — Smooth, rounded option for workable mixes in patios or walkways where drainage matters.
1/2" Crushed Rock — Versatile for base layers or full mixes requiring compaction.
Standard Mix Ratio
A standard mix ratio for many projects: 1 part cement : 2 parts concrete sand : 3 parts aggregate.
Adjust based on your project specs, and always test a small batch first. For paver bases, consider our 3/4" AB2 Road Rock or Recycled Envirobase for stability before adding sand.
How Much Concrete Sand Do You Need for Common Roseville Projects?
Estimating materials saves time and money. Here are rough guidelines for typical Sacramento-area jobs (based on a 4-inch thick slab; scale up for thicker pours):
- 10x10 ft Patio (100 sq ft) → About 1-1.5 cubic yards of concrete sand (plus equal aggregate)
- 20x20 ft Driveway (400 sq ft) → 4-6 cubic yards of concrete sand
- Standard Sidewalk (3 ft wide x 50 ft long) → 1-2 cubic yards
Pro Tip: Factor in 10% extra for waste and compaction.
Need help calculating exact amounts? Use our Material Calculator to get precise estimates for your project.
Why Source Your Concrete Sand Locally in Roseville
Buying from a local yard like ours at 1801 PFE Rd means fresher materials, faster turnaround, and better support. We offer:
- Same-day delivery on orders placed early
- Free delivery on 4+ yards within 12 miles—covering Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, and much of the Sacramento region
- Easy pickup seven days a week at our yard
- Expert advice from our team who know local conditions
Local supply also ensures materials suited to Northern California soils and conditions. No long hauls that compact poorly or pick up contaminants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Sand in Roseville
1. What's the difference between concrete sand and fill sand?
Fill sand (like our 75% sand/25% concrete sand blend) works great for backfill or leveling, but concrete sand's coarser grade is essential for structural work.
2. Can I use concrete sand under pavers?
Yes—for joint filling or bedding, though mason or plaster sand often works better for finer leveling.
3. Do you deliver concrete sand on weekends?
Absolutely. We deliver seven days a week, including Sundays in surrounding areas.
4. How much aggregate should I mix with concrete sand?
A common ratio is 1:2:3 (cement:sand:aggregate) for standard 3,000-4,000 PSI concrete. Consult your plans for specific requirements.
5. Is your concrete sand washed and screened?
Yes—clean and free of debris for consistent mixing and professional results.
6. Can I pick up concrete sand the same day?
Visit our Roseville yard anytime during open hours; we load you quickly and efficiently.
7. What areas do you deliver concrete sand to?
All of Placer and Sacramento Counties, including Folsom, Auburn, Citrus Heights, and beyond. Check our delivery page for exact rates.
Get Started on Your Concrete Project Today
Ready to get started on your Roseville or Sacramento-area concrete project? Call Roseville Landscape Supply today at (916) 783-9177 for current availability and to request a bulk delivery quote.
Our team can help calculate exact quantities and recommend the right mix of sand and aggregates. Visit the yard or schedule delivery—let's make your pour a success.
