Concrete Sand (Torpedo Sand)

Torpedo Sand Overview

Torpedo sand (also sometimes called concrete sand) is a mix of coarse-grained sand and gravel typically no larger than ⅜”. That is why it is also called FA1 or FA2 (fine aggregate) sand. It is a natural sand most commonly used to create asphalt and concrete, but it can also be used for multiple landscaping applications too. Such projects include leveling pavement and building stone walls. Since it’s simple and coarse, and since it can drain well, it is a great product for backfill and subbase (backfill means you refill a hole with the material you dug out of it. Subbase refers to the layer of aggregate you lay on top of the native materials when building a road or sidewalk).

You can also mix torpedo sand with black dirt to make it easier to work with. Doing so will also allow for better drainage in your garden so that your plants’ roots don’t become oversaturated with water. Torpedo sand is great for your child’s sandbox because its coarseness prevents as much of it from washing away when it rains or when your child pours water into it.

When considering torpedo sand vs mason sand, keep in mind that torpedo sand is coarser than the latter because it contains gravel, whereas mason sand does not. Torpedo sand is also better to use for projects where you need better traction and drainage, such as paving patios and sidewalks. Mason sand, on the other hand, is better to use beneath swimming pools or in infill (what you use to fill the gaps when constructing something such as a wall).

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