What Is Ballast Used For?
Ballast is a mixture of sand and coarse aggregate commonly used as part of a concrete mix.
It is used for a range of general building and groundwork applications where concrete is required.
Advice by Andrew Tsaroulla, Director of TSAR Building Supplies
Last updated: 10th October 2026
What Is Ballast?
Unlike a product containing only sand or only stone, ballast combines fine and coarse aggregate.
Cement and water can then be added in the appropriate proportions to form concrete for the intended application.
Where Is Ballast Commonly Used?
Ballast may be used for:
Concrete bases
Paths
General groundwork
Foundations where specified
Other concrete work
The concrete mix and specification should suit the job being carried out.
Ballast vs Building Sand
Building sand is finer and is commonly associated with mortar and bricklaying.
Ballast contains coarse aggregate and is generally used for concrete rather than normal bricklaying mortar.
What Does TSAR Supply?
TSAR supplies ballast within its bulk and maxi bag ranges.
You can also find cement, sharp sand, building sand and other aggregates.
What Other Materials Might Be Required?
Concrete and groundwork projects can also require:
Cement
Ballast
Aggregates
MOT Type 1
Related Building Advice
Sharp Sand vs Building Sand → future page
What Is MOT Type 1 Used For? → future page
Need Ballast?
Send TSAR the quantity required and your delivery postcode.