answersLogoWhite

0

All About Sandbags

User Avatar

Anonymous

11y ago
Updated: 9/18/2019

Most of us are familiar with sandbags in the movies. They feature prominently in most war and action films, since they are a cheap and inexpensive way to give soldiers and heroes something to hide behind in a firefight. However, most sandbag use is domestic, and is intended to protect against water and flooding as opposed to enemy bullets. As such, it is important for any homeowner to know about sandbags and the difference between a good sandbag and a bad one, especially if they live near a river or in a flood-prone area.

The typical modern sandbag is a step up from the burlap sacks that were used as late as the 1700s to protect against floods and storms. Made out of a thick nylon weave, these bags usually hold about 50 pounds of dry sand, although there are smaller ones which hold as little as 10 pounds for when detail work is needed. A good sandbag will have a tight weave and firm material that cannot easily be torn or cut. The tight weave should be such that when the sandbag is picked up by the top or in some cases even the handles, that no sand leaks out of the bag. Sandbags that are tied off at the top should have steady, secure ties, such as zipties or nylon rope. In general, sandbags are sold empty in large lots, and purchasers should always examine a few sample ones from the lot before purchasing. Sandbags need to be made cheaply and in large quantities, so if they have a bad stitch or poor weave, or have begun to dry rot, then they may be unable to hold the sand.

When using sandbags, it is important to overlap them like bricks so that their weight and mass can plug the holes and gaps between them. It is generally considered that a wall of sandbags intended to prevent a flood be at least three bags thick, more if the flooded river is very powerful or the wall needs to be taller. When using sandbags to prevent erosion, it is often possible to get away with a wall of bags, which is a single bag thick, since they will be backed up by advancing dirt and gravel. Sandbags are not a permanent solution and they should be inspected regularly, since most of them begin to degrade and break apart in sunlight.

Sandbags sand bag bags flood prevention retaining wall

User Avatar

Wiki User

11y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

How do you make sandbags in left 4 dead?

You can't make sandbags.


"I know sandbags are used for levees, but what are some other uses"?

Sandbags can be used to fortify just about anything. The military has used sandbags as temporary field fortifications for a long time. Sandbags have also been used in miniature versions as ammunition for certain weapons. Sandbags are used as a prop in yoga classes.


What is One 6 foot collapsible bin revetment is equivalent to approximately sandbags?

2,500 sandbags


Where are sandbags found in Harvey,IL area?

Usually you can obtain sandbags from your local fire stations.


Who feels sandbags?

anees


What rhymes with sandbags?

handbags


What color are sandbags?

Yellowish


What stops a flood best between metal brick sandbags or wood?

Most people use sandbags I think


Why are sandbags used during a flood?

Sandbags are used during a flood to block out water. People use choose sandbags during a flood because they are easy to use, really cheap and really effective.


What were sandbags used for World War 1?

The military has used sand bags for many years to absorb shock and projectiles. Sand disipates energy so when a bullet hits it, the shock is spread out among all the grains and the bullet stops. Soldiers hide behind sandbags to protect themselves. Sandbags can also protect buildings from the shock wave of bombs.


How do you prevent levees from failing?

sandbags


How far will 9MM penetrate into sand bags?

the 9mm will penetrate sandbags a number of feet. however, if there is sand in the sandbags then merely inches...