If you’re looking to spruce up your garden, build a driveway or get stuck into a new DIY project, chances are you’re going to become very familiar with aggregates. These materials like gravel, sand and crushed stone help lay the foundation (literally!) for almost any outdoor project. But with so many types out there, how do you know which one’s right for you?

We’ve got you covered – this guide is here to help. Whether you’re a seasoned landscaper or just starting out, knowing the different types of aggregates and how to use them will make your life a whole lot easier. And if you need a hand with picking the right materials, our team has got you covered with everything from sharp sand to golden gravel and beyond.

What Exactly Are Aggregates?

In simple terms, aggregates are materials like gravel, sand, crushed stone and even crushed recycled materials. They’re used in landscaping, construction and DIY projects to make sure your garden paths, driveways or foundations stay solid and look good for years to come.

Aggregates come in different shapes, sizes and colours – some are rough and chunky, others smooth and decorative. The key to getting the right one for your job is understanding their purpose. With this in mind, let’s break down some of the most popular types.

Types of Aggregates You’ll Be Using

Sharp Sand

Sharp sand, sometimes called concreting sand, is a popular one for many projects. It’s a gritty, coarse sand with angular particles, which makes it perfect for creating a stable base or mixing with cement for concrete.

What Can You Do With Sharp Sand?

• Mix it into concrete: Need a strong foundation for your patio or driveway? Sharp sand is a must for mixing with cement to create concrete.
• Level out areas: Whether you’re laying block paving or creating a solid base for a garden feature, sharp sand gives you a level surface.
• Improve drainage: Sharp sand is great at helping water flow through the soil – handy if you’re dealing with soggy spots in your garden.

At Hales Sawmills, we offer the best quality sharp sand to make sure your projects stay strong and stable!

Golden Gravel

Golden gravel is just what it sounds like – a golden-toned gravel that’s perfect for adding a bit of style to your garden. It’s smooth and rounded, which makes it perfect for decorative purposes or for creating a solid, stable surface for paths and driveways.

What Can You Do With Golden Gravel?

• Driveways & Pathways: Need a gravel driveway or a charming garden path? Golden gravel is a perfect choice for that classic, natural look.
• Decorative Landscaping: This gravel adds a bit of elegance to garden beds, around water features, or even as ground cover.
• Weed prevention: Spread it over your garden beds, and it’ll help keep weeds at bay while adding a nice touch to your outdoor space.

Golden gravel is all about style and practicality, and we stock plenty of it at Hales Sawmills. It’s a top choice for any outdoor project where you want that pop of colour.

Type 1 MOT (Crushed Stone)

Type 1 MOT is a crushed stone material that’s often used as a sub-base for heavy-duty projects like driveways, roads or even pavements. It’s made from a mixture of stone, limestone and granite, and it’s brilliant for creating a strong, durable base that won’t shift over time.

What Can You Do With Type 1 MOT?

• Roads & Driveways: This aggregate is perfect for any project where you need a solid foundation. It locks together well and creates a strong, stable surface.
• Paving: If you’re laying block paving or flagstones, Type 1 MOT gives you the solid base you need for a long-lasting result.
• Landscaping Foundations: This stuff is also great for providing a solid base under larger landscaping features like patios or garden paths.

If you’re working on something that needs to bear weight or withstand heavy traffic, Type 1 MOT is your go-to. 

Pea Gravel

Pea gravel is a small, smooth gravel that’s often used for decorative purposes. It’s not just pretty; it’s practical too. The smooth, round stones make it comfortable to walk on, and it’s great for areas that need to drain well.

What Can You Do With Pea Gravel?

• Garden Features: Want to add a bit of style to your flower beds or water features? Pea gravel is a fantastic way to do it.
• Paths & Patios: Its small size makes it easy to spread and walk on, which is why it’s often used for garden paths and patios.
• Drainage: Pea gravel allows water to flow freely through, making it great for places that need to drain well, like under decking or in garden beds.

Pea gravel is super versatile and can be used for everything from decorative touches to functional drainage.

Slate Chippings

Slate chippings are flat, natural pieces of slate that come in a range of colours – from purple to green. They’re a stylish choice for anyone looking to add a modern, natural touch to their outdoor space.

What Can You Do With Slate Chippings?

• Borders & Edging: Slate chippings make a stunning border around flower beds or garden features.
• Ground Cover: They’re great for mulching, as they help retain moisture in the soil while giving a clean, finished look.
• Decorative Paths: If you’re looking for a modern, sleek path, slate chippings are a beautiful option.

Gravel

Gravel is one of the most commonly used aggregates, and for good reason. It’s super versatile, comes in various sizes and works well in a whole range of projects. Whether you need a pathway, driveway or just a decorative feature, gravel’s your friend.

What Can You Do With Gravel?

• Driveways: Gravel’s loose structure makes it ideal for driveways, and it’s easy to maintain over time.
• Landscaping: You can use gravel in flower beds, along borders or in water features for a natural, textured look.
• Drainage: Just like the other aggregates, gravel’s great for allowing water to flow through and not pool.

Gravel is a reliable and budget-friendly option for almost any landscaping project. If you’re after quality gravel, look no further than Hales Sawmills.

Why Choosing the Right Aggregate is So Important

The type of aggregate you choose can make or break your project. If you’re looking for strength, durability or simply something decorative, picking the right one will help your project last longer and look better. It also makes a huge difference to the ease of installation. For example, sharp sand is perfect for mixing with concrete, while golden gravel’s ideal for decorative paths and driveways.

Why Shop at Hales Sawmills?

At Hales Sawmills, we’ve got all the aggregates and landscaping supplies you need to make your projects shine. From sharp sand and golden gravel to pea gravel and slate chippings, we stock a wide range of materials to suit every job, big or small. Plus, our team is always on hand to offer advice and ensure you get exactly what you need.

If you’re not sure what to pick, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re happy to chat through your options and help you find the perfect materials for your project.

Whether you’re working on a driveway, garden path or any other project, the right aggregate is key to getting it right. Browse our range of aggregates and landscaping supplies online or in store today. We’re here to help, and we’ve got everything you need to get started on your next big project.