A Simple Way To Choose The Right Aggregate
Choosing aggregate should be easy. Recycled aggregates are made from screened and crushed materials such as concrete, brick and asphalt. Primary aggregates are quarried stone such as limestone or granite. Both have clear roles.
In this guide we explain MOT Type 1, 6F2, pipe bedding and more. We give simple uses, typical depths and quick quantity examples. We also flag when recycled is perfect and when primary is better. Expect benefits like lower cost, strong sustainability and local availability. All products are produced and supplied under tight quality control for compliance and consistency.
See our full range on Aggregates and size your job with the Aggregates Calculator. A R Richards is a family-run business with 40+ years’ experience, modern plant and fast delivery across Shropshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire and the Midlands.
Quick Product Glossary: MOT Type 1, 6F2, Pipe Bedding And More
MOT Type 1: A compactable sub-base used under driveways, patios, paths and roads. Available as primary (limestone/granite) and recycled Type 1. Recycled Type 1 meets performance needs for many domestic and commercial jobs.
6F2: A coarse recycled capping made from crushed concrete/brick. Ideal for bulk fill, building up levels, farm tracks and temporary haul roads. 6F5 is a similar grade, often with a slightly wider size range. Sharp Sand: Washed, angular sand for laying courses and general building. Ballast: Mix of sand and gravel for making concrete. Gravel/Decorative Stone: Used for drainage or finished surfaces where appearance matters.
We produce recycled aggregates using modern Crushing Solutions. We also undertake on-site or off-site screening to create consistent grades.
Recycled Vs Primary: Performance, Cost And Sustainability
Recycled aggregates are produced by processing suitable demolition arisings through screening and crushing, then grading. Quality checks remove contaminants and keep sizes consistent. This delivers a reliable, repeatable product that compacts well and drains as intended.
Choose recycled for most sub-bases, capping, general fill and many drainage jobs. Specify primary where the design demands a particular rock type, tight tolerances, or a high-spec visible finish. Using recycled materials cuts carbon, reduces waste to landfill and often reduces cost—especially with local supply and fewer haulage miles.
To see how we ensure quality, visit Our Recycling Processes. If you need arisings removed before backfilling, our Muck Away team can clear spoil efficiently.
This image was generated with AI and may not always represent the product or service exactly.
MOT Type 1 Explained: Uses, Depth And Quantities
Use MOT Type 1 as the sub-base beneath driveways, patios and paths. Typical compacted depths: 100–150mm for patios/paths and 150–200mm for domestic driveways. Increase on weak ground. Compact in layers for a tight, even base.
Example 1: Driveway 50 m² at 150mm. Convert 150mm to 0.15m. Volume = 50 × 0.15 = 7.5 m³. Use the Aggregates Calculator for tonnes. Add 5–10% for wastage.
Example 2: Patio 20 m² at 100mm. 0.10m depth. Volume = 20 × 0.10 = 2.0 m³. The calculator allows for density and moisture. For laying advice on paving, see our patio guide and plan your delivery to suit ground conditions.
6F2 Capping And Bulk Fill: When It’s The Smart Choice
6F2 is a coarse recycled aggregate, usually 75mm down to fines. It is excellent for raising levels, capping soft ground and forming temporary haul roads or farm tracks. It is not a finishing sub-base; follow with Type 1 for a tighter top if needed.
Example 1: Farm track 30m × 3m × 150mm. Convert depth to 0.15m. Volume = 30 × 3 × 0.15 = 13.5 m³. Example 2: Shed base capping 6m × 4m × 100mm. 0.10m depth. Volume = 6 × 4 × 0.10 = 2.4 m³. Compact in passes with a roller or heavy plate. Aim for slightly moist material for best compaction.
Want to see it made? Read our Crushing 6F2 update for a behind-the-scenes view of production.
Pipe Bedding And Drainage Stone: Keeping Services Protected
Pipe bedding protects services. Choose clean, rounded stone to the size your spec or local authority requires: commonly 10mm, 20mm or 40mm. Rounded, washed stone reduces point loading and avoids damage to pipes and ducts.
Typical build-up: a level bed below the pipe, side support to the springline, then surround to the crown. Example: 30m trench, 300mm wide, 150mm bedding. Convert 0.15m depth. Volume = 30 × 0.30 × 0.15 = 1.35 m³ for the bed; add surround volume if needed. Use drainage stone for soakaways and French drains.
See our merchant range for pipe bedding, coils, chambers and geotextiles within our Drainage products. Always follow the utility or engineer’s specification.
Which Aggregate For Your Job? Quick Selection Guide
- Driveways, Patios, Paths: MOT Type 1 sub-base. Finish with your chosen paving. Depth 100–200mm depending on loads and ground.
- Shed Bases, Extensions, Footings Support: 6F2 to build up and stabilise soft spots, then Type 1. Use sharp sand where specified.
- Farm Tracks, Yards, Gateways: 6F2 or 6F5 to raise and firm up. Top with Type 1 if a tighter running surface is needed.
For finishing touches, consider topsoil, sleepers and edging so surfaces stay stable and tidy.
This image was generated with AI and may not always represent the product or service exactly.
Step-By-Step: Measure Up And Use The Aggregates Calculator
Step 1: Measure length, width and depth. Convert millimetres to metres (e.g., 150mm = 0.15m). Multiply L × W × D for volume in m³.
Step 2: Choose your product in the calculator. Density varies with material and moisture, so results are estimates. Round up and add 5–10% contingency for settlement, trimming and waste.
Step 3: Decide on bulk bags or loose loads. Bulk bags suit tight access and smaller projects. Loose tipped loads are cost-effective for larger volumes. Plan safe access and firm ground for delivery vehicles.
Install It Right: Compaction, Drainage And Common Mistakes
Compact in layers of 50–75mm. Use a plate compactor for small areas or a roller for larger works. Material should be slightly damp, not soaked. Too dry or too wet reduces compaction.
On weak or clay soils, lay a geotextile to separate sub-grade and aggregate. Install edge restraints to stop movement. Keep your falls and levels so water runs away from buildings and hardstanding.
Avoid mixing capping and sub-base layers. Do not lay in very wet conditions. If in doubt, hire the right plant and take your time to achieve a firm, even base.
Costs, Sustainability And One-Provider Convenience
Price depends on product, volume, haulage distance and access. Recycled aggregates often cost less than primary and carry fewer transport miles. Ordering locally helps cut carbon and lead times.
Using one provider saves hassle. A R Richards can supply aggregates, remove spoil, and provide skips or waste collections for the whole project. We also run modern plant for efficient loading and compaction on site.
For businesses, our total waste management approach keeps sites tidy, compliant and cost-effective while improving recycling rates.
Order Today: Fast Local Delivery Across The Midlands
Ready to go? Send your measurements, get a quick quote, and book delivery. Our modern fleet and multiple depots mean fast local service across Shropshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire and the wider Midlands.
If you’re unsure what to order, our friendly team will help you choose the right product and quantity. You can also visit our yard to see materials before you buy.
With 40+ years’ experience, A R Richards delivers quality aggregates, reliable logistics and straight answers.
FAQs
Is Recycled Type 1 As Good As Primary For A Driveway?
Yes, for most domestic driveways. It compacts well and meets performance needs. Specify primary if your design calls for a particular stone or tight aesthetic control.
What Depth Of MOT Type 1 Do I Need?
Paths and patios usually need 100–150mm compacted. Domestic driveways often need 150–200mm. Increase on weak or wet ground.
When Should I Use 6F2 Instead Of Type 1?
Use 6F2 for capping and bulk fill to build up levels or stabilise soft spots. Finish with Type 1 for a tighter, smoother sub-base.
Which Pipe Bedding Size Should I Choose?
Follow your spec or local authority guidance. Common sizes are 10mm, 20mm and 40mm rounded, washed stone. Bigger pipes often need larger bedding sizes.
How Do I Convert My Measurements To Tonnes?
Calculate volume in m³ (L × W × D in metres). Use a calculator that applies the right product density. Add 5–10% for wastage.
Can You Deliver Bulk Bags And Loose Loads?
Yes. Bulk bags are tidy for smaller jobs or tight access. Loose tipped loads are ideal for larger volumes and better value per tonne.
Do You Cover My Area?
We deliver across Shropshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire and the Midlands. Contact our team for availability and lead times in your postcode.
