I have read that a small amount will get sucked up but you can then let it settle in the bucket (or whatever you use) and tip out the water, returning the sand to the tank.

I've also read that sand is much easier to keep clean as the debris sits on top instead of working it's way down as it does with the gravel. Apparently you also need to make sure you "disturb" the sand all over the tank on occasion to prevent the build up of pockets of anaerobic bacteria.

I heard about a sand that is black called Tahitian moon sand. It's said to look very good in a tank, very natural.

Keep us up to date on your sand venture as there are others of us here that are interested also :)