What is Construction Aggregate?

During construction processes, plenty of materials are used. Aggregates are materials used during construction that are commonly made up of sand, gravel, crushed stone, concrete or shingle. Typically, they are used to provide hard surfaces, protect pipes, or fill holes or voids. They are also used in water filtration and sewage treatment processes.

Different types of aggregates each serve different purposes, as most building materials do. Specific aggregates are suited to specific jobs but don’t worry if you don’t know which are suitable for which. Here’s a quick low-down.

One of the most commonly used aggregates in building work is sand. This is because it can be used in so many different ways. Soft sand is perfect for bricklaying, pointing, paving and building walls whereas sharp sand is ideal when it comes to laying block paving slabs and cobbles. Additionally to this, plastering sand can also be used for plastering and re-pointing brickwork. Many builders find that a superior finish is achieved when using sand aggregates and it is, therefore, a very popular choice.

Ballast is another aggregate. It has a thicker material than sand and consists of a mix of gravel, stone and sand. It’s the ideal concrete to cement fence posts and fix foundations and can be used for general building work. It is also frequently using for roofing.

Ballast aggregates are readily available and are popular to use due to their aesthetically pleasing texture. When used for roofing, it also helps to improve energy efficiency. Furthermore, it’s a well-known fact that rocks don’t burn so it’s incredibly fire resistant and it’s incredibly sustainable because it can be removed and reused.

Pea shingle is one of the most popular aggregates for driveways, landscaping and paths because as well as well as being an incredibly reliable material, it also reduces weed growth – meaning there is one less thing for homeowners to worry about.

Other advantages of using this aggregate include the fact that it needs less resurfacing, it has incredibly long-lasting properties and will more than likely last until someone decides to change it. It’s easy to maintain and also environmentally friendly.

If you have any further questions about aggregates, please get in touch.