Aggregates and Sand

Aggregates and Sand

Aggregates constitute about 75% of a concrete’s mass. They are a mixed assortment of gravel and sand and make up a large portion of the final concrete product. Their contribution determines the final quality of the concrete. Their dynamic use makes them suitable for creating many structural wonders, from stunning landscapes to robust pavements.

Whether crushed concrete or exposed aggregate concrete, these materials are used to add many designs and artistic touches to exteriors, especially the landscapes of gardens and lawns. Practicality and sophistication go hand in hand with these materials. They are a great way to give uplift and strength to structures. At the same time, they come in many textures and patterns that fit seamlessly into any setting.

Aggregates in Landscaping

The use of aggregates is quite common in landscaping and many homeowners choose them for their driveway surfaces. Aggregates can give a contemporary finish or add a touch of vibrancy with a colour scheme, making them quite popular. They uplift gardens to new heights by crafting sophisticated walkways and are even used to cover the beds of a lawn or garden. Aggregates also work great with water features. Exposed aggregate concrete is particularly ideal for driveways, as they impart a beautiful texture to the ground.  

Sand in Landscaping

The use of sand in landscaping is a great match for the outdoors. They add beauty and functionality to the setting while being cost-effective and durable. Sand has diverse usage in the outer enclave and can be utilised for edging the beds in a lawn or creating hardscape features. Paving sand and builders sand are great materials for establishing a foundation for other landscaping projects.

Types of Aggregates

• Exposed Aggregate concrete

Perhaps the oldest form of aggregate that is still widely used today is exposed aggregate concrete. It is made up of a top layer of concrete which, when removed, exposes the underlying gravel or sand. Different shapes and sizes of the gravel can be used to create unique textures in exposed aggregate. It is ideal for decorating the driveways and never fails to look classy with its timeless appeal. Aggregate concrete also has many practical advantages which makes it quite popular to use.

• Scoria

Best suited for landscaping and related drainage works, scoria is a porous and durable rock. It provides high-temperature insulation, which makes scoria rock great for gas barbecue grills and similar products. It has a high surface area and weight. Another important property of scoria is that it packs strength into the concrete and creates durability.

• Granite

Granite is the best solution for high-grade concrete and comes in a variety of colours and sizes. Ideally suited for decoration purposes, many homeowners use it frequently in their outdoor spaces. Granite is a product of quartz and mica crystals which give the final colour of the rock. It creates a higher density concrete. Through the partial replacement of sand with dust, the microstructure of the cement matrix is compressed, which increases the strength of the concrete.

• Limestone

Commonly used for road-building projects, limestone creates a strong and robust base that can easily endure the weight of oncoming vehicles. Made up of broken down sedimentary rocks, it is a popular construction material. As a source of calcium, it combines with ground clay to yield a product called clinker, which is then pulverized with a source of sulphate, like gypsum. It is then combined with water, sand, and crushed rock to create concrete.

• Gravel

Gravel is sourced from eroded rocks and cutting down bits of stone. Though it is not as strong as granite, it is more cost-effective and contains less radioactive content. Crushed gravel is ideal for road construction purposes or making play areas in the home. 

Types of Sand

• Paving Sand

Paving sand is very fine and devoid of moisture. It is frequently used to fill up the joints of block paving and other paving purposes. It helps to keep the paved structure robust and rigid. Additionally, paving sand is resistant to water and hinders paving from moving or becoming loose. Unlike other sands, it enables a close and tight bond and is composed of a kiln-dried silica sand material.

• Builders Sand

To provide bulk and power to construction materials, builders sand is frequently used. It is commonly utilised alongside asphalt and concrete. Builders sand is soft, which makes it ideal for laying bricks, pointing applications, plastering, and general building usage. Owing to its soft texture, this sand is spread over surfaces used for sports like volleyball.

• Plaster sand

Plaster sand is fresh, eroded river sand that is perfect for rendering and plastering. It is sometimes referred to as Leighton sand. It is an excellent source for setting pavers and filling holes or low spots in the lawn. It is a very fine grade of sand and improves the strength of concrete, which is imperative for building powerful foundations and structures.

If you’re searching for the right aggregates and sands to suit your needs, browse the ArchiPro website to get a quote today.