Choosing the Right Paving Sand for Your Project
If you’re planning to lay pavers for a patio, driveway, or garden path, the question of ‘what type of sand is used for paving’ will no doubt arrise. Selecting the right type of sand is essential for achieving a durable, level finish. At Kincumber Sand & Soil, we help homeowners, landscapers, and tradies across the Central Coast choose the best paving sand for their projects—saving time, money, and hassle in the long run.
Using the wrong type of sand can lead to uneven surfaces, movement, and even structural damage. Let’s look at what makes paving sand different and how to choose the right blend.
Why Sand Matters When Laying Pavers
Sand serves two primary purposes in a paving project:
- As a bedding layer that creates a level, compactable surface to lay the pavers on.
- As a jointing material that locks the pavers in place once laid.
The type and quality of sand used in both stages can dramatically affect the outcome of your project. Poor-quality sand or incorrect particle sizes can compromise stability and allow pavers to shift or settle over time.
The Best Sand for Paving: Washed River Sand
For bedding pavers, the most commonly recommended product is washed river sand. This clean, coarse sand compacts well, allows for good drainage, and provides a stable base for pavers to rest on.
At Kincumber Sand & Soil, we supply high-quality washed river sand that’s ideal for:
- Patio and pathway installations
- Brick paving
- Stepping stones
- Courtyards and entertaining areas
We also stock sand in bulk and offer wholesale sand options for larger commercial or trade projects.
Jointing Sand: The Final Touch
Once your pavers are laid, a finer jointing sand—sometimes referred to as gap sand or kiln-dried sand—is swept between the joints to lock everything into place. This helps:
- Reduce movement and shifting
- Prevent weed growth
- Support weight-bearing strength
Ask our team about combining bedding and jointing sand in one convenient order to save time and streamline delivery.
How Much Paving Sand Will You Need?
For most paving jobs, a bedding layer of around 30–40mm thick is ideal. To calculate your sand needs:
- Measure the length and width of the area (in metres)
- Multiply to get your total square metres
- Multiply by 0.04 (for 40mm depth)
For example: A 10m² area x 0.04m = 0.4 cubic metres of sand needed.
Need help with quantities? Our team is happy to assist with estimates or point you to helpful online calculators.
Central Coast Delivery and Expert Advice
We provide fast, reliable sand delivery across the Central Coast and offer expert guidance on all things paving and landscaping. Our team knows the local terrain and drainage conditions, so you can feel confident you’re using the right product for your area.
Planning a bigger backyard upgrade? Don’t forget to explore our range of landscape products or check out our garden landscaping products for additional materials.
For additional industry insights and paving standards, browse resources at YourHome.gov.au and the Landscape Association.
Speak With the Paving Sand Experts
Need help selecting the right paving sand on the Central Coast? Contact Kincumber Sand & Soil today or call us on 02 4368 1252. We’ll help you get it right the first time.
