5 Types Of Aggregate And Its Uses

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25 Oct

How to build the perfect gravel garden

A gravel garden is an excellent low maintenance option that is relatively easy to prepare and design. Follow these guiding steps and you’ll have the perfect gravel garden in no time! How to prepare the ground for a gravel garden Before you think about laying any gravel, you’re going to need to prepare the ground correctly: Remove all plants, including weeds, from the area that your gravel garden will take up. If you want to keep any of the plants you remove, make sure that you don’t sever their roots and place them in planting pots for temporary storage whilst you finish your gravel garden. Add manure or compost in order to improve the fertility of the soil. Dig around 10cm deep using a rake or till in order to mix the compost and soil together. If you encounter any large stones, set them aside – you might want to incorporate them as a decorative stones in your gravel garden! Dig and install a border to separate your gravel garden from the rest of your lawn. You should look to dig around 10-15cm deep and install your edging so that it’s level with or just above the ground - this will help with drainage. Please note that this step is only necessary for dense soil types, such as clay. Install a weed membrane. Simply measure the area required and cut the weed membrane to size, leaving around 7.5cm overlap on each edge of your gravel garden. You should then weigh the edges of the membrane down using rocks or landscaping staples. How to create your gravel garden Choose the garden gravel you want to use. Check out your local gravel suppliers to select the type of gravel you want to use for your gravel garden. Please note that around 40kg of 20mm gravel will cover one square metre at 2 inches deep. If your gravel garden is unevenly shaped, then measure a square around it and save leftover gravel for filling in any holes that appear later in the year. Place your plants in the desired positions. Once you’ve grouped your plants into the desired locations on your gravel garden, cut individual squares into the membrane large enough for each plants' roots once the flaps are folded back. Then, place the plants into their allotted section and fold the flaps back over the top of the soil before watering generously. Lay the gravel. Before you begin spreading your gravel, make sure that you place your focal points first, such as any large rocks or pots, wherever you want them. After these have been placed, you can commence spreading the garden gravel evenly over the membrane using a rake. Follow these steps and you'll be left with the perfect gravel garden to show off to your friends and family. We are your leading local gravel suppliers in Dorset. Browse our range of products online, available for delivery and collection, or contact our team today with any enquiries on 01258 857465.

30 Nov

Why you should consider driveway gravel

Your driveway is the first thing that a guest will encounter when approaching your home, which is why you want it to look good. Installing driveway gravel is a great cost-effective way to leave an impression and has a host of other benefits too. Attractive Driveway gravel looks more natural compared to alternatives such as tarmac and brick, which can run the risk of looking industrial. Driveway gravel holds a rural charm which can add a lot of character to both countryside and city homes. The addition of driveway gravel seems to compliment nature rather than suffocate it. We supply a broad range of driveway gravel in a range of colours and sizes, which means that chances are you’ll find the right gravel to compliment your home exterior in our store. Cost-effective Driveway gravel is the most pocket-friendly option for filling driveways around. Not only is the installation of driveway gravel quick and cheap, it will also save you money in the long run, as maintenance costs are incredibly low. Unlike tarmac or brick, driveway gravel will not crack, and outside of rarely filling in holes with more low-cost gravel, it will last forever. Weather Resistant Other driveway options, like concrete and tarmac, react negatively to dramatic changes in temperature like frost, heavy rain and intense sunlight. Severe weather will often cause them to crack, especially when they cover a large surface area and they will end up fading in colour over time. This is why driveway gravel is a fantastic option, as it is pretty much impervious to the weather and requires no extra drainage assistance. All in all, driveway gravel is a fantastic option when it comes to laying your driveway that should not be overlooked. To find out more about the range of products we offer, from building materials and decorative stones to shingle & gravel and driveway materials, contact our team today on 01258 857465 or take a look at our special offers!

12 Jun

How to create a low-maintenance garden

Are you getting tired of moving the lawn and weeding? Are you looking for a more low-maintenance garden this summer? There are many of us who love to idle away the hours tending to our gardens, but there are also many of us who dread the onset of summer, as our gardens require a lot of maintenance. Typically, the most dreaded garden tasks tend to be mowing the lawn and weeding, which needs to be done on a weekly basis over the summer. If you are looking to curtail your time in the garden, why not consider creating a low-maintenance gravel garden? If the thought of weeding fills you with dread, then why not consider replacing your earth borders with gravel for an attractive but easy maintenance garden. To create a gravel garden, you need to: Clear the designated area Remove the existing planting from your borders or from the designated area. If you want to keep some or all the plants, then place them to one side. The Edge You will be looking to place your gravel where the lawn borders meet your current planting space. Here, you will need to add an edge, such as an monoblock mowing strip. This will provide you with a nice rounded curve which will compliment your gravel layout. Preparing your borders Once your edging has been done, you can then prepare your borders. Start by digging over the borders to introduce air into the soil which will make it easier to work with. Take this as an opportunity to improve the health of your soil. If your soil is looking quite heavy, then you can look to add some peat free compost which will help break it up a bit. You might want to add a granular fertiliser too at this stage. Don’t forget to rake through the soil so that it is spread evenly to avoid any bumps in the gravel. Laying membrane Further to preparing your borders, you can now start to lay out your membrane, in most instances, you can utilise weed membrane which is a fabric woven matting which essentially blocks out light to weeds and will keep the soil separated from the gravel. The membrane also allows water to pass through the woven material and into the soil. Border planting You can now take the plants that you wish to include in your new gravel garden and place them in your position of choice. You will find that it is best to plant in pockets of gravel where you can create small islands of plants surrounded by gravel. Here, you can also plant through the membrane, simply cut a cross in the membrane which is large enough to accommodate the plant and place the plant in the soil. Once the plant is immersed in the membrane, fold back the edges of the membrane so that it seals around the plant. Lay down the gravel Now you can start dressing the membrane with gravel, you can opt for either small piece of gravel or larger pieces of gravel. At MB Wilkes, we have a wide range of gravel and shingle that are suitable for gardens, walkways and driveways. You may want to consider 2-6mm shingle gravel which is a light golden flint shingle gravel or go a little larger with 10mm ravel which is approved by the National Trust. MB Wilkes provides gravel and shingle up to 40mm. Get decorative Once your gravel is in place, you can look to accessorise your new gravel layout with garden ornaments. You can also look to add texture by incorporating different textures and colours to add interest. Whether you go for an all-over gravel garden, or you just incorporate some gravel to parts of your garden, this will certainly reduce the maintenance of your garden, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the summer! To find out more about the range of products we offer, from building materials and decorative stones to shingle & gravel and driveway materials, contact our team today on 01258 857465 or take a look at our special offers!

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17 Mar

Why should you invest in recycled aggregate?

Throwing good money at materials that end up in landfill? There's a smarter way to build. So, why should you buy recycled aggregates rather than always reaching for brand-new materials? Whether you're tackling a driveway, laying drainage, or working on a larger landscaping project, the costs and environmental impact can quickly add up, and sourcing the right materials at the right price isn't always straightforward. Recycled aggregates offer a practical, cost-effective solution that more and more homeowners and contractors are choosing. At MB Wilkes, we supply a fantastic range of recycled aggregates in Dorset directly from our family-owned quarry, so you get quality materials and honest advice all in one place. Read on to find out why recycled aggregate could be the ideal choice for your next project. What Can Recycled Aggregates Actually Be Used For? Recycled aggregates are far more versatile than many people realise, making them a brilliant choice for a wide range of domestic and commercial projects across Dorset and beyond. Driveways and Pathways Recycled aggregate is a popular choice for driveways and paths, offering a solid, hard-wearing surface that handles regular foot and vehicle traffic with ease. It compacts well, drains effectively, and gives a neat, practical finish. It's a cost-effective alternative to virgin materials without any noticeable drop in performance. Drainage Projects One of the most common uses for recycled aggregate is drainage. Whether you're installing a soakaway, improving surface water management, or working on a larger drainage scheme, recycled material performs brilliantly. Its angular, irregular texture helps water filter through efficiently, reducing the risk of waterlogging in gardens, driveways, and construction sites. Sub-Base and Groundwork Before any surface goes down, you need a reliable foundation beneath it. Recycled aggregate is widely used as a sub-base material for patios, driveways, and construction projects because it compacts firmly and provides excellent load-bearing support. It's a practical, dependable option that gets the groundwork right from the start. Landscaping and Garden Projects Recycled aggregate isn't just for heavy-duty construction work. It works wonderfully in garden landscaping too, from filling raised beds to creating informal paths and borders. If you're looking for a low-maintenance, budget-friendly material that still looks tidy and well-considered, recycled aggregate is well worth exploring for your next outdoor project. The Environmental Impact of Using Recycled Aggregates Sustainability is something we all think about a little more these days, and the materials you choose for your project can make a real difference. Recycled aggregates are produced by reprocessing construction and demolition waste that would otherwise end up in landfill, which is a fantastic way to give existing materials a second life. By choosing recycled over virgin aggregate, you're also helping to reduce the demand for new quarrying activity, which in turn lowers the energy used in extraction and transportation. Less quarrying means less disruption to the natural landscape too. For contractors and homeowners alike, it's a practical way to reduce your project's carbon footprint without sacrificing performance or quality. At MB Wilkes, we're proud to offer recycled aggregate products that support a more sustainable approach to building and landscaping right across Dorset. SuDS Compliance Sustainable Drainage Systems, or SuDS, are increasingly required in new builds and renovation projects, and recycled aggregate plays a useful role in meeting those requirements. Its natural permeability allows surface water to drain through gradually, reducing runoff and the risk of localised flooding. For anyone navigating planning requirements around drainage, it's a genuinely practical material choice. Reduced Haulage Impact Sourcing your recycled aggregates locally makes a difference beyond just convenience. Shorter delivery distances mean fewer lorry movements on local roads, lower fuel consumption, and a reduced carbon footprint compared to importing virgin materials from further afield. Because we supply directly from our Dorset quarry, so you benefit from efficient, local delivery that keeps unnecessary haulage to a minimum. Additional Benefits of Buying Recycled Aggregates In addition to being a sustainable choice, there are other benefits of recycled aggregates that make it easy to see why so many homeowners and contractors are choosing them as their go-to material for all manner of projects. Significant Cost Savings As you might expect, the cost of buying recycled aggregate is more affordable than using brand new. It’s far less expensive to use recycled aggregate and if you buy local, you’re also saving money on transportation costs. You can save a lot of money by investing in recycled aggregate and there isn’t too much of a noticeable difference between buying new and buying second-hand. No Compromise on Performance A common concern is whether recycled aggregate is as reliable as new material. In most applications, including sub-base, drainage, and pathways, it absolutely is. Recycled aggregate is robust, hard-wearing, and fully capable of meeting the demands of everyday use. You get the performance you need at a price that makes far more sense for your budget. Readily Available and Quick to Deliver Sourcing materials shouldn't slow your project down. At MB Wilkes, we hold good stock levels of recycled aggregate, so you're not left waiting around. With our fully equipped fleet of tipper trucks and grab lorries covering Poole, Bournemouth, and across Dorset, we can efficiently deliver materials to you, keeping your project moving at a steady pace. Compliance and Planning For contractors working on formal projects, material specifications matter. Recycled aggregates frequently meet the same regulatory and engineering standards as virgin materials, making them a viable option where compliance documentation is required. Choosing a reputable, established supplier like MB Wilkes means you can have confidence in the quality and consistency of every load, which is exactly what specification work demands. Why Choose MB Wilkes for Your Recycled Aggregate? We've been supplying quality aggregates from our family-owned quarry in Dorset for over 60 years, and recycled products have become an important part of what we offer. Here's why customers across the region trust us: Direct From Our Quarry: No middlemen, just straightforward pricing and consistent quality you can rely on every time. Competitive Prices: We keep our costs fair because we believe quality materials should be accessible to everyone, from homeowners to large contractors. Expert Advice on Hand: Not sure which recycled aggregate is right for your project? Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help you make the right call. Fast, Reliable Delivery: Our fully equipped fleet covers Poole, Bournemouth, and the wider Dorset area, getting materials to you when you need them. Flexible Quantities: Whether you need a small load or a bulk delivery, we can accommodate your requirements without any fuss. As one of the UK's leading suppliers of landscaping and aggregate products, we bring genuine expertise and a commitment to excellent customer service to every order, no matter the size. Get Your Recycled Aggregates in Dorset Choosing the right materials doesn't have to be complicated, and at MB Wilkes, we make the whole process as straightforward as possible. As a family-owned quarry supplying Dorset for over 60 years, we combine competitive prices with the kind of honest, helpful service that keeps our customers coming back time and again. If you're ready to place an order or simply want to talk through your options, give our friendly team a call on 01258 857465. Alternatively, you're welcome to get in touch via our contact form and we'll get back to you promptly. Whatever your project, we'd love to help you get it right.

21 Jan

How Much Sub-Base Do I Need for My Project?

Ever stood in your driveway with a tape measure, wondering if you're about to order way too much material or nowhere near enough? If the first question that comes to mind is “how much sub-base do I need?”, then hopefully this blog will have you covered. We're going to answer that question with a simple, reliable formula that takes the uncertainty out of ordering. And you can trust that we know what we’re talking about. At MB Wilkes, we've been supplying sub-base materials across the UK for over 60 years, offering both delivery and quarry collection so you can get exactly what you need, when you need it. Understanding Sub-Base and Its Uses Sub-base is the unsung hero of any solid construction project. It's the compacted foundation layer that sits beneath your finished surface, distributing weight evenly and preventing your driveway, patio, or pathway from cracking, sinking, or shifting over time. Skipping the use of sub-base materials can lead even the most beautifully laid paving to eventually fail. We recommend it for driveways, patios, garden paths, shed bases, and any foundation work where long-term stability matters, making it an essential first step in groundwork that simply can't be skipped. Common Types of Sub-Base Material When you're choosing between sub-base aggregates, the two main options you'll encounter are MOT Type 1 and MOT Type 3, each designed for different applications depending on the load requirements of your project. MOT Type 1 consists of crushed concrete or limestone, like our Type 1 Mendip, that's been carefully graded to create a dense, stable base when compacted. It's the workhorse of sub-base materials, ideal for driveways, heavy-duty patios, and any area that'll bear significant weight from vehicles or foot traffic. The angular particles lock together beautifully under compaction, creating a solid foundation that won't shift. MOT Type 3 (often called scalpings), such as Type 3 Limestone, is a finer material made up of smaller crushed stone and dust. While it still provides excellent compaction, it's typically used for lighter applications like footpaths, shed bases, or as a blinding layer over MOT Type 1. It's also brilliant for filling gaps and levelling surfaces before your final paving goes down. How Much Sub-Base Do You Need – The Simple Formula So, onto the question of “how much sub-base do I need for type 1?” The sub-base calculation couldn't be more straightforward. Take your area in square metres Multiply by your depth in millimetres divided by 1,000 Multiply that result by 2.2 to get the tonnes you'll need Equation: Area (m²) × Depth (mm ÷ 1,000) × 2.2 = Tonnes That 2.2 figure represents the density of compacted sub-base, converting your volume into actual weight for ordering purposes. Bear in mind that materials typically compress by 25–30% when a plate compactor is used. It is standard industry practice to add 5–10% extra to the final tonnage to account for uneven subgrades or spillage during the work. Alternatively, you might be asking “how much sub-base do I need for type 3?”. In short, the calculation remains the same, you simply adjust the density from 2.2 down to 1-8 – 2. Step-by-Step Calculation Example Let's work through how much sub-base you’ll need for a typical driveway measuring 20m² at 100mm depth. First, we calculate 20 × (100 ÷ 1,000) × 2.2, which gives us 20 × 0.1 × 2.2. That works out to 4.4 tonnes. Since our bulk bags typically hold around 850kg each, you'd need approximately seven bags to cover this area comfortably, allowing for a bit of overage during compaction and levelling and some wastage. Recommended Depths for Different Projects Understanding how much sub-base you need depends entirely on what you're building and the load it'll carry. Different applications require different foundation depths to perform properly over time. Driveways and Vehicle Access: Aim for a driveway sub-base depth of 150-200mm to support the weight of cars and regular traffic without settling or rutting. Patios and Footpaths: A patio sub-base depth of 75-100mm provides sufficient support for pedestrian use whilst keeping material costs reasonable. Shed Bases: Between 75-100mm works well for garden buildings and lighter structures that won't experience heavy loading. Heavy-Duty Applications: For commercial drives or areas with frequent heavy vehicle access, go for 200mm or more to ensure long-term durability. Ordering Your Sub-Base from MB Wilkes If you’re asking yourself, “how much sub-base do I need?” and you’re still unsure, we’ll be happy to advise you. Either way, ordering from us couldn't be easier. We offer bulk bag (850kg) deliveries for smaller residential projects like patios and paths, which are perfect when you need precise quantities and easy handling. For larger builds such as driveways or extensive groundwork, loose loads delivered by the tonne offer better value and faster coverage, letting you tackle substantial areas without constantly restocking materials. Our Sub-Base Material Options We stock a comprehensive range of sub-base materials to suit every application. Our MOT Type 1 limestone and crushed concrete options provide that rock-solid foundation for driveways and high-traffic areas, compacting down beautifully to create a level, stable base. For lighter projects, our MOT Type 3 scalpings offer excellent value while still delivering the compaction you need for paths and shed bases. Each material is quality-checked and ready to perform exactly as it should, giving you confidence in your groundwork from the very first layer. Delivery and Collection We deliver across our coverage area with flexible scheduling to match your project timeline. Minimum order quantities apply for delivery, so do give us a ring to discuss your specific requirements. If you're a trade customer or need materials immediately, you're welcome to collect directly from our quarry using our weighbridge service, which means you can load up and get straight back to site without waiting for delivery slots. Tips for Ordering the Right Amount Even with an accurate calculation, there are a few practical considerations that'll help you order the perfect quantity of sub-base aggregates for your project without ending up short or with too much leftover: Add 5-10% Extra: Compaction always uses more material than you'd expect, and uneven ground or small wastage during installation means a buffer ensures you won't run out mid-project. Round Up to Full Bags: If your driveway sub-base depth calculation gives you 4.4 tonnes, order five bags rather than four to account for variations in coverage. Consider Access: Tighter spots or areas with awkward levels might require more material for proper compaction, so factor in your site conditions. Account for Edging: Your patio sub-base depth extends slightly beyond the finished surface, so measure generously rather than cutting it fine. Get Your Sub-Base Delivered Today Now you've got the formula and know exactly what you need, it's time to get your project moving. Calculate your requirements, then give us a call on 01258 857465 or fill in our contact form to place your order. As one of the UK's leading suppliers with over 60 years of family-owned expertise, we deliver quality sub-base materials at competitive prices straight to your site. Order today and let's get your groundwork sorted.

13 Nov

How can soils and aggregates stop flooding?

If you're wondering how to stop garden flooding, whether you're a keen gardener or managing farmland, we've got a straightforward seven-step plan that works brilliantly. British weather can be unpredictable, and those heavy downpours are inevitable, but improving your soil structure makes all the difference. At MB Wilkes, we know a thing or two about soils and aggregates. Following these seven simple steps will help reduce flooding risks and keep your outdoor space in top condition, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your garden or growing successful crops year after year. 1. Minimise Tillage So, how does soil prevent floods? It all starts with tillage. When you minimise soil disturbance, you're helping it develop better structure and aggregation, which means it acts like a natural sponge during heavy rainfall. Well-structured soil absorbs and retains water brilliantly rather than letting it run off and cause flooding. Reduced tillage also preserves organic matter, which is fantastic for improving water-holding capacity and overall soil health. The more organic matter your soil contains, the more water it can store, keeping your garden or farmland protected during those inevitable British downpours. 2. Limit Farm Traffic If you're wondering how to stop a clay garden flooding, timing your farm traffic makes a real difference. Heavy machinery like tractors and combines compacts the soil, reducing pore space and making water infiltration much harder. Compacted soil behaves like a hard surface, increasing runoff during rainfall and worsening flooding risks. By limiting traffic to dry periods and avoiding movement when conditions are wet, you'll maintain better soil structure that absorbs water more effectively. It's a straightforward step that protects your soil's natural drainage capacity and keeps your land in better condition year-round. 3. Manage Drainage Proper drainage management is essential for preventing flooding in both rural and urban settings. A well-designed drainage system redirects water flow away from vulnerable areas that are prone to waterlogging, protecting your soil and plants from excess moisture. Whether you're managing a large farm or a residential garden, effective drainage prevents water from accumulating in problem spots and causing damage. By channelling water to appropriate areas, you maintain healthier soil conditions and reduce the risk of standing water that can harm crops, plants, and landscape features during periods of heavy rainfall. 4. Use Cover Crops, Green Manures and Mulches Knowing how to stop garden flooding often comes down to what you plant between your main crops. Cover crops, green manures, and mulches are brilliant for improving soil structure and reducing water runoff. As they decompose, they add valuable organic matter that helps soil absorb more water, preventing surface flooding during heavy rain. These protective layers also shield bare soil from rainfall impact, minimising crusting and allowing better water infiltration. Here's what they offer: Enhanced soil structure and water retention Reduced surface runoff and erosion Improved organic matter content Better water penetration during downpours 5. Use Grass Leys to Improve Organic Matter Grass leys (fields planted with grasses and legumes) are fantastic for enriching soil and great if you’re wondering how to stop garden flooding naturally. As these plants decompose, they add organic matter that creates better soil structure capable of holding more water during heavy rainfall. The extensive root networks they develop promote soil aggregation while reducing compaction, leading to improved water infiltration and storage. Well-structured soil equipped with this organic boost handles excess water far more effectively, significantly reducing surface flooding risks. It's a natural, sustainable approach that benefits both your soil health and flood prevention efforts. 6. Use Plants with Large Roots Another trick if you’re wondering how to prevent your garden from flooding is to use plants with large roots. Large roots create natural channels within the soil, improving structure by increasing pore space and reducing compaction. This enhanced structure allows better water infiltration, meaning your soil holds more water instead of letting it run off and cause flooding. Deep-rooted plants also absorb water from lower soil layers, preventing surface accumulation while helping recharge groundwater. During periods of heavy rainfall, these plants actively remove water from the surface, offering natural flood protection that works alongside the soil's improved drainage capacity. 7. Try Agroforestry Agroforestry combines trees or woody shrubs with crops or livestock on the same land, creating a sustainable system that's brilliant for those wondering how to stop garden flooding. The tree roots work similarly to large-rooted plants, creating channels that improve soil aggregation and increase water infiltration. These established root systems enhance soil structure while the trees themselves absorb significant amounts of water, which is particularly helpful during prolonged wet periods. It's an integrated approach that benefits your land in multiple ways, from improved drainage and reduced flooding risks to better soil health and increased biodiversity across your property. Bonus Tip On the subject of how to stop surface water flooding in problem areas, there’s one more step you can take, and that’s to use specific aggregates. Drainage aggregates like our Cerney Gravel, crushed rock (think Basalt Chippings), or porous materials like our Type 3 Limestone create pathways for water to infiltrate quickly, reducing surface runoff and standing water accumulation. We stock quality drainage materials that offer: Rapid water infiltration through porous structure Temporary storage during heavy rainfall Controlled, gradual water release Prevention of flash flooding and uncontrolled runoff These aggregates are a practical solution for gardens, driveways, and farmland prone to waterlogging. Need Drainage Solutions? MB Wilkes Are Here to Help At MB Wilkes, we deliver quality drainage aggregates across Dorset. Whether you need bulk supplies for farmland or smaller quantities for your garden, no order is too big or too small for our family-run business. With over 60 years of experience and competitive prices, we make it easy to get exactly what you need, delivered straight to your site. Give us a call on 01258 857465 or complete our contact form if you have any questions or concerns.

5 types of aggregate and their uses

Shingle

Scottish pebbles

Slate

Granite chippings

Honey marble

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