Pit sand and river sand are both used in construction, but they have some key differences:
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Source:
- Pit Sand: This sand is obtained from digging pits deep below the ground, typically from 1 to 2 meters. It is often found in areas where ancient river beds have been buried and is extracted from quarries.
- River Sand: This type of sand is obtained from river banks, river beds, and streams. It's washed and carried by flowing water over time.
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Texture and Appearance:
- Pit Sand: It usually has an angular grain texture. The grains are sharp and often course. The color ranges from red to orange, indicating the presence of a high amount of iron oxide.
- River Sand: It is generally finer, smoother, and more rounded due to the natural weathering and erosion process in the river. It tends to be more uniform in size and color, usually light brown.
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Cleanliness:
- Pit Sand: It often contains impurities like clay and silt, which need to be washed away before being used in construction projects.
- River Sand: It is usually more clean due to its natural washing process by river water, but can sometimes contain small amounts of silt and clay.
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Uses:
- Pit Sand: Due to its coarse nature, it is preferred for concreting purposes where binding needs to be strong.
- River Sand: Its fine quality makes it a good fit for plastering and other fine construction work.
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Cost:
- Pit Sand: It can sometimes be more economical because it is locally sourced and doesn't usually require extensive washing.
- River Sand: This can often be more expensive due to transportation costs and the higher demand for its superior quality.
Both types of sand have their specific roles in construction, and the choice between them depends on the particular requirements of the construction project.
