Sandbag ballast vs. flood- Blog 50

We get asked a lot about the difference between a sandbag that is used as a ballast, and a sandbag that is used for flood control. Red on for the details!

Sandbags Used as Ballast:

Purpose: These sandbags are primarily used to add weight or stability to structures or equipment. For instance, they might be used to keep down tents or gazebos, stabilize moving trucks or trailers, or serve as counterweights in construction or theatrical setups.

Design: Ballast sandbags are often made from durable, sometimes UV-resistant, materials to withstand outdoor conditions. They might come in various sizes, but they typically have handles or loops for easy handling and placement. The sand inside these bags is usually packed tightly or even sewn shut to prevent sand from spilling out, ensuring that the weight distribution is consistent.

Usage: The focus here is on the weight of the bag rather than its ability to absorb or block water. The bags are meant to be placed in a way that they don't need to be moved frequently, providing long-term stability.

Sandbags Used for Flood Control:

Purpose: These sandbags are specifically designed to prevent or mitigate flooding by creating barriers that block or redirect water flow. They are commonly used during heavy rains, river overflows, or coastal storm surges.

Design: Flood control sandbags are generally made from burlap or polypropylene, which allows some water to seep through but slows down the flow significantly. They are often filled on-site, meaning they are not pre-packed but filled according to need. This allows for flexibility in placement and use. The sand might not be as densely packed, which helps in creating a more effective water barrier by allowing the bags to mold together when stacked.

Usage: These bags are meant to be deployed quickly. They are usually stacked in layers to form walls or dykes that can either redirect water or contain it in specific areas. The bags might be filled only two-thirds to allow for some settling and interlocking, enhancing the seal against water.

Key Differences:

Material: Ballast bags might use sturdier, long-lasting materials, while flood control bags are often more disposable, focused on immediate need rather than longevity.

Filling: Ballast bags are pre-filled and designed for static weight distribution, whereas flood control bags are typically filled on-site, with sand possibly less densely packed.

Function: While ballast is all about adding weight for stability, flood control is about managing water flow, requiring bags that can work together to create a barrier.

Handling: Ballast bags often have features for ease of handling over long periods, while flood control bags are designed for quick deployment in emergencies.

This distinction ensures that each type of sandbag is used effectively for its intended purpose, whether that's stabilizing equipment or protecting against water intrusion. 

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