Listed below are some definitions and explanations of the terms that are used on this web site.

Bunker Sand:  Sand that has physical properties that are acceptable for golf course bunkers (sand traps).

Color:  Laboratories measure the color of sand by comparing it to the Munsell Color Chart. 

Cu:  see Uniformity Coefficient

D15:  the particle diameter below which 15% of the particles (by weight) are smaller

D85:  the particle diameter below which 85% of the particles (by weight) are smaller

Gravel:  A loose or unconsolidated deposit of pebbles cobbles or bolders.  Particle size is greater than 2 mm.  

Greens Mix:  Mixture that usually consists of sand and peat that is put in place for the purpose of growing a golf green.  Mixes may contain any number of other inorganic (soil, ceramics, etc.) and/or organic amendments (compost, etc.)

Rootzone:  The area of soil including the surface and immediately below the surface where the roots are found.

Rootzone Mix:  Mixture that usually consists of sand and peat that is put in place for the purpose of growing turf grass or other plants.  Mixes may contain any number of other inorganic (soil, ceramics, etc.) and/or organic amendments (compost, etc.)

Rootzone sand:  Sand that has physical characteristics that indicate it may be used in a turfgrass rootzone.

Sand:  A loose material consisting of small mineral particles, or rock and mineral particles, distinguishable by the eye.  Grains vary from spherical to angular.  Particles range in size from 0.05 to 2.0 mm.

Topdress Sand:  Sand with a particle size that indicates it would be a suitable topdress material.  Note - topdress sand should be similar in size to the rootzone or greensmix that it is being applied on.

Uniformity Coefficient (Cu):  An indicator of the distribution of particle sizes in a particular sand or gravel

for sands -      Cu = D60/D10

for gravels -   Cu = D90/D15

USGA:  United States Golf Association

USGA Sand:  Sand that has physical properties that meet the USGA Recommendations for a Method of Putting Green Construction.

For more information feel free to contact us at info@sandfinder.com.