What Are Sandbags Made Of? Sandbag Material Explained
Sandbags are primarily made from woven polypropylene and burlap. Woven polypropylene is highly durable and water-resistant, making it ideal for long-term flood defense. Burlap offers a more traditional, biodegradable option, though itโs less durable. These materials balance performance and cost-effectiveness, which is why they are widely used.
Other material options are also available, and we will dig into them all below.
What material are sandbags made of?
So, what are sandbags made out of aside from the two options mentioned above? Sandbags are often crafted from popular materials like hessian (burlap and jute) and UV-protected woven polypropylene, with some options also available in PVC. These materials are chosen to help create an effective, durable flood control structure in emergencies.
Canvas Sandbags
Canvas sandbags are another option for creating an effective flood barrier. Although heavier than hessian or polypropylene, the canvas is a strong, durable material that many teams and builders consider a practical choice in an emergency.
They work well when filled with sand or a mix of soil and clay, though their weight may require extra manpower to lay and stack correctly.
Hessian (Burlap/Jute) Sandbags
Sandbags made of burlapโa type of hessian typically including juteโare a common, natural option. They are biodegradable and cost-effective, making them a favorite among gardeners and emergency teams. When filled with sand or clay, they help create a temporary barrier to control floodwater.
However, prolonged exposure to rain and direct sunlight can cause these bags to degrade so that they might be best used for short-term flood defense in milder weather conditions.
PVC Sandbags
PVC sandbags offer an extra level of waterproofing and are particularly useful in situations where floodwater is expected to rise rapidly. They create a tight, secure barrier and are used to build temporary flood defenses near rivers or vehicle storage sites.
While they are robust and effective in emergencies, they can be heavier and less flexible than other materials, which might make them harder to stack quickly.
Reinforced Woven Polypropylene Sandbags
This polypropylene variant features extra reinforcement for added strength and durability. Ideal for high-pressure flood events, these sandbags are engineered to create a robust barrier with minimal degradation over time. They are particularly useful when calculating the exact material per foot to build a secure structure.
Their improved resistance to weather makes them a top choice for long-term flood control.
UV-Protected Woven Polypropylene Sandbags
These sandbags are made from durable polypropylene that is UV-protected to withstand direct sunlight and harsh weather. They are easy to use and ideal for long-term flood control, creating a robust structure that holds up well even when filled with sand or gravel.
Their strength makes them the best option for defending against flooding on a major scale, although they are a plastic solution and not biodegradable.
Vinyl Sandbags
Vinyl sandbags provide a strong and resilient barrier that is especially useful in severe flood conditions. They are designed to withstand the force of rushing water and create a nearly impervious layer against floodwater intrusion.
While not as common as other materials, they are a good option for areas where extra protection is needed, such as near major water bodies or on flood-prone sites.
Industry-specific use cases
Our sandbags and materials cater to a wide range of industries. Here are key use cases:
- Flood Defense: Our flood defense sandbags are made from UV-protected woven polypropylene and PVC. These materials are engineered to resist prolonged exposure to water, maintaining their strength and durability even during heavy rain and flood events. By using our sandbag calculator, you can accurately determine the number of bags needed to secure your property during heavy rain events.
- Construction & Infrastructure: Reinforced woven polypropylene sandbags are the best option for construction and infrastructure projects. They hold up exceptionally well under heavy loads, ensuring stability when used to support machinery, vehicles, and building materials. Their robust construction makes them ideal for critical sites where durability is key.
- Military & Defense: Heavy-duty sandbags enhanced with hybrid fabrics are preferred for their added strength and ballistic protection in military and defense applications. These sandbags are used for fortifications and defensive bunkers, effectively absorbing impact forces and providing a secure barrier against both floodwater and external threats.
- Erosion Control & Agriculture: Burlap (hessian) sandbags are popular for erosion control and agricultural uses. They break down naturally over time without harming the environment, making them an eco-friendly choice for temporary flood barriers along riverbanks and in fields. Their biodegradability supports soil restoration and minimizes long-term environmental impact.
Miscellaneous options
There are several alternatives to sandbags for those on a tighter budget or looking for creative, cost-effective solutions. You might consider DIY approachesโsuch as using old canvas or repurposed plastic sheetsโto create makeshift barriers.
These methods can be very effective when combined with proper techniques, like learning how to stack sandbags correctly. For those interested in a hands-on approach, check out our guide onย how to make sandbags for flooding to build your own barrier and enhance your flood defense.
At Palmetto Industries, we provide top-quality PP sandbag material
At Palmetto Industries, our PP sandbags are engineered to perform at a superior level. Made from UV-protected, durable polypropylene, our sandbags are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, offer excellent bulk availability, and provide long-lasting flood control.
We ensure that our products are rigorously tested so you get a consistent, reliable barrier that cheap alternatives simply cannot match.
While inexpensive sandbags might seem attractive initially, they often lack the strength, UV resistance, and durability necessary for effective flood defense. In contrast, our professional-grade sandbags deliver superior performance and maintain their integrity under continuous stress, making them the best option for those serious about protecting their property.
Browse our sand bags for sale today and experience the difference quality makes.
Sandbag Material FAQ
By Purvis King
Bringing over 35 years of textile and flexible packaging experience to Palmetto, Mr. King earned his Bachelorโs Degree in Mathematics and Physics from Augusta College in 1985. He is skilled in all aspects of manufacturing and engineering of flexible, woven polypropylene plastics. In his free time Mr. King enjoys playing disc golf with his two sons and enjoying the outdoors.
