Choosing the Right Aggregates for Your Construction Project
Aggregates are the backbone of almost every construction project — from laying a stable base for a new driveway to forming the sub-base for a commercial development. But with so many types on the market, how do you know which one to order?
Here’s a quick guide to the most commonly used aggregates and what they’re best suited for.
MOT Type 1
The industry workhorse. MOT Type 1 is a crushed stone aggregate that compacts tightly to form a stable, load-bearing base. It’s the go-to material for sub-bases under roads, driveways, patios, and car parks. It meets the specification set by the Department of Transport (hence the name) and is tested to ensure it compacts correctly and drains properly.
Best for: Driveways, patios, footpaths, road construction, car parks.
Sharp Sand (Grit Sand)
A coarse, angular sand used for making concrete and mortar. Its gritty texture creates strong bonds and helps with drainage, which is why it’s also popular for laying block paving and as a base layer under slabs.
Best for: Concrete mixes, screeding, laying paving, drainage projects.
Ballast
A pre-mixed blend of sharp sand and gravel, ballast is ready to go straight into the mixer for making concrete. It’s a convenient option for foundations, footings, and general concreting where you don’t need precise control over the mix ratios.
Best for: General concreting, foundations, fence posts, shed bases.
20mm Shingle (Gravel)
A clean, washed gravel commonly used for drainage and as an exposed aggregate in concrete. The rounded stones allow water to pass through freely, making it ideal for soakaways, French drains, and land drainage systems.
Best for: Drainage, soakaways, exposed aggregate concrete, decorative finishes.
Topsoil
Not an aggregate in the strictest sense, but often delivered alongside them. Quality screened topsoil is essential for finishing gardens, landscaping, and any project that needs a fertile growing layer.
Best for: Landscaping, turf laying, garden beds, backfilling.
Need Aggregates Delivered?
Paverose Hire supplies and delivers a full range of aggregates to construction sites across Essex, London, and the South East. Whether you need a single load for a small job or ongoing supply for a large development, we can help. Get in touch for a quote.
