Sub Base Aggregate Guide

At Bullimores Sand and Gravel, we supply construction aggregates to a range of clients, from leading civil engineers and building contractors to small independent builders and self-builders. All of whom have come to rely on the quality of our aggregates and our customer service.

We supply the construction sector with aggregates suitable for use as a sub base, and our sub base aggregates have been widely used in several high-profile projects.

Contents

• What is a sub base?

• Which aggregates are used in a sub base?

• Different types of sub base aggregates and their uses

• How to calculate the amount of sub base material needed

What is a sub base?

A sub base is a layer of crushed aggregate that forms a robust, load-bearing base layer for applications such as pathways, pavings, patios and the construction of roads. 

The role of the sub base is to evenly distribute the weight of the application layer and any weight placed upon it.

Which aggregates are used in a sub base?

There are several aggregates suitable for use as a sub base. We stock large quantities and supply in bulk for each of the following.

• Type 1 recycled
• Type 1 limestone
• Type 1 ballast
• All in ballast (when mixed with cement)
• Scalpings

Different types of sub base aggregates and their uses 

Choosing the best sub base is essential for any construction project. Understanding which primary or recycled aggregate to use is important but can sometimes be challenging.

Here’s a list of sub base aggregates and their uses.

Type 1 limestone

Suitable for: hardstandings, building sub bases, car parks, footpaths, driveways, roads, highways and patio areas.

Type 1 limestone is a sub-base aggregate made from crushed limestone. It is an MOT type 1 (clause 803 highways specification) approved grade aggregate, meaning it meets the grading of Type 1 and can be used to construct all roads and highways. 

Type 1 Ballast 

Suitable for: hardstandings, building sub bases, car parks, footpaths, driveways, roads, highways and patio areas.

• Type 1 Ballast, also known as MOT Type 1, is made up of different materials like limestone and crushed concrete and varies in size from 0-10mm Ballast & 0-20mm Ballast to dust.

Besides infrastructure, the ballast is also used as a stability-aid for boats, submarines, ships, and even race cars.

Type 1 recycled (Recycled)

Suitable for: hardstandings, building sub-bases, roads, paths, patios and driveways.

Type 1 recycled is recycled hardcore crushed at 40mm down to dust, containing concrete to create an easily compacted recycled aggregate. 

With plenty of concerns amongst businesses and consumers surrounding the environment, the pressure lies on the construction sector to use more materials that are made sustainably. As a result, recycled aggregates are becoming the go-to, popular, cost-effective alternative.

While recycled aggregates are cheaper to purchase, they remain the same standard as new aggregates with no compromise on quality.

Scalpings (Secondary)

Suitable for: driveways, pathways and landscaping projects

Our scalpings are a limestone product similar to MOT type 1, but it does not meet the MOT highways specification due to the higher clay content. Scalpings are ideal for pathways and driveways, compounds, hardstanding, to fill potholes and as a general fill aggregate.

All in ballast (when mixed with cement)

Suitable for: hard standing, building bases and foundations

Our all in ballast is a pre-mix of washed aggregate and coarse sand. Mixing the aggregate with cement produces a strong coarse, grade concrete suitable for foundations, hard standings and building bases. Available in 10 & 20mm grade.

How to calculate the amount of sub base material needed

The depth (thickness) of your sub base depends on that area’s usage. As a rule, we recommend using the following guide:

• Patios, garden paths: 75-100mm
• Driveways, public footpaths: 100-150mm
• Heavy uses: 150-225mm
• Highways: 150mm +

To get an estimate of the amount of aggregate to order, go online and use our sub-base calculator to instantly determine how much material you’re likely to need.

Contact Bullimores

Our minimum order quantity is only 5 tonnes per load. You can place an order by calling our Corby office on 01536 216487 or request a fast-track quote online.

Our broad network of quarries and depots spanning Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire means we can deliver aggregates to those areas using our fleet of liveried trucks to distribute our products on time.

We have a modern fleet of grab and tipper trucks and a plant hire division ready to serve.

If you need advice on your project, please call our friendly team on 01536 216487, who will be happy to help.