Torpedo Sand: What It Is, Uses and How Much to Order
Torpedo sand is a coarse, washed sand used mostly in concrete, as paver bedding and for drainage. The name is common in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and other Midwestern states. Grains run from fine up to about 3/16 inch, which makes it grittier than play sand or mason sand and better at draining water.
Sand calculator →What torpedo sand is
Most torpedo sand is natural sand dug from glacial deposits, then washed to remove clay and silt. Many suppliers sell it as their concrete sand, meeting the ASTM C33 grading for concrete fine aggregate. Others sell a slightly coarser blend under the same name. Because names vary from yard to yard, the safest way to buy is to ask what sieve gradation it meets.
Torpedo sand vs other sands
| Sand | Grain size | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| --- | --- | --- |
| Torpedo sand | Coarse, up to about 3/16 in | Concrete, paver bedding, drainage, coops |
| Concrete sand | Coarse (often the same product) | Concrete, bedding |
| Mason sand | Fine, uniform | Mortar, sandboxes, top dressing |
| Play sand | Fine, washed, screened | Sandboxes |
| Manufactured sand | Crushed rock | Concrete, asphalt |
See mason sand vs concrete sand and manufactured sand for more detail.
Common uses
- Concrete: mixed with cement, stone and water.
- Paver bedding: a screeded 1-inch layer over a compacted base; see how deep should paver base be.
- Under above-ground pools: a smooth, compacted pad.
- Drainage: around pipes and in septic systems where specified.
- Chicken coops and runs: many keepers like it because it dries quickly and sifts clean. Compare with gravel for a chicken run.
Using it in a chicken coop
- Clear old bedding and level the floor.
- Spread torpedo sand 2 to 4 inches deep inside the coop and deeper in the run if drainage is poor.
- Sift out droppings with a litter scoop or a hardware-cloth sifter every few days.
- Top up as needed and replace when it starts to smell.
How much to order
Find the volume in cubic yards and multiply by the supplier's weight. Many yards figure roughly 1.3 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard depending on moisture.
Example (made-up numbers): a coop run 10 by 20 feet, 3 inches deep, is 10 × 20 × 0.25 = 50 cubic feet, or about 1.85 cubic yards. At an assumed 1.4 tons per cubic yard, order about 2.6 tons. The sand calculator does the math with your numbers, and how much does a ton of sand cover gives a quick check.
Buying tips
- Ask whether it is washed and what gradation it meets.
- Look at the pile: it should feel gritty, not slick or muddy.
- Order a little extra for settling and spills.
- Bulk delivery usually beats bags for anything over about a yard.
Questions people ask
What is torpedo sand?
A coarse, washed sand with grains up to about 3/16 inch, commonly sold in the Midwest. It usually meets the gradation for concrete fine aggregate.
Is torpedo sand the same as concrete sand?
Often, yes. Many suppliers use the names interchangeably for a coarse washed sand meeting ASTM C33. Some yards' torpedo sand is a bit coarser, so ask for the gradation.
Is torpedo sand good for chicken coops?
Many keepers use it because the coarse grains drain well, dry quickly and are easy to sift for droppings. Avoid very fine or dusty sand.
Can torpedo sand be used under pavers?
It is commonly used as a bedding layer under pavers because it drains and compacts well. It is not a substitute for a compacted gravel base.
How much does a cubic yard of torpedo sand weigh?
Weight depends on moisture and gradation. Many suppliers figure roughly 1.3 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard. Ask for the yard's figure.
Is torpedo sand good for a sandbox?
It is coarser and less soft than play sand. Some families use it, but washed play sand is designed to be finer and gentler for children.
Related guides
- Mason sand vs concrete sand
- Manufactured sand
- How much does a ton of sand cover
- How deep should paver base be
- Gravel for a chicken run
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