FallingSand isn't a block. It's an entity. The reason they don't rotate is because rotating the block model on the entity wasn't implemented. This isn't technically a "bug", as Mojang never intended to allow FallingSand entities to rotate. While it would be nice to see it in game, it's more of a "requested feature".
Then spam create it where you want these "barriers".
Invisible block interaction using testforblck ~~ ~ air
This is a useful feature. I don't know why anyone would want this removed.
You are using an outdated resource pack. This is not a Minecraft issue. This is your issue. Switch to default until the resource pack gets updated.
That's just how redstone works. If you directed power into it with a repeater, it would emit the signal.
Redstone blocks only propagate power to adjacent blocks, it doesn't pass through like repeaters.
This "bug" is useful. It allows you to make compact t flip-flops.
Why are the numbers inconsistent?