ou’ll find building aggregates used in construction, landscaping, and various home improvement projects around the UK. At J Keane Plant Hire, we know how useful it is to understand the different types of materials that are used in these industries so that you can understand what to purchase for various projects.
As a result, we’ve written this article to explore the main types of building aggregates, including topsoil, sand, chippings, dust, and crushed concrete, whilst providing practical insights into their applications.
Top Soil
Top Soil is the uppermost layer of soil, it’s usually rich in organic matter and nutrients, which makes it ideal for gardening and landscaping. It’s commonly used to improve the quality of planting areas, create new lawns, and fill raised beds.
Topsoil is also beneficial for levelling uneven surfaces in your garden. When selecting topsoil, we recommend that you ensure it is of good quality, free from weeds, and suitable for your specific gardening needs.
Builder's Sand
glass, build garden paths and beyond. Where it’s most important is the construction industry. It’s a critical material used almost constantly in all wet trade construction techniques. From concrete to blockwork and rendering all the way to roof ridge lines, you’ll need sand throughout a build.
We’ve listed a few different types of sand below to help shed some light on the various grades:
- Sharp Sand: Also known as grit sand, it is used in concrete mixes, laying paving slabs, and rendering.
- Building Sand: This fine sand is ideal for bricklaying and plastering.
- Red Sand: Common in certain regions, red sand is preferred for bricklaying due to its excellent bonding properties.
When choosing sand for your project, consider the specific requirements to ensure the best results.
Chippings
Chippings, also known as gravel or stone chippings, are small pieces of crushed stone. They’re probably most popular for use in driveways, pathways, and as decoration in gardens. Chippings provide good drainage, reduce weed growth, and due to the variety of different colours and stone types, they can add aesthetic appeal to an outdoor space.
There are various types of chippings available, such as granite, limestone, and slate, each offering different colours and textures to suit your design preferences.
Crushed Concrete
Crushed Concrete is a recycled aggregate made from demolished buildings and roads. One of the greatest aspects of this type of material is that it’s an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to natural aggregates. Crushed Concrete is used in various applications, including sub-base for driveways, roads, and pathways, as well as in drainage systems.
Its use helps reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners and builders.
Local Aggregates
Depending on your location, specific types of aggregates may be more readily available. For example, red sand, which is best used for bricklaying, is commonly found in certain regions. You can find large amounts of red sand pockets throughout the UK, particularly in the South.
These local aggregates can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly due to reduced transportation distances. When planning your project, we advise sourcing aggregates locally to support regional suppliers and reduce your carbon footprint.
Get In Touch With J Keane Plant Hire for Quality Building Aggregates
Whether you need sand for some bricklaying, or chippings for a new driveway, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with one of our team to discuss your project and book a delivery at your convenience.
