Every construction project requires a combination of many key elements to be a success. For any construction or landscaping project, the use of aggregate in construction and in construction materials is essential.
Aggregates are an incredibly important building block for the construction of various types of structures such as housing, roads, and infrastructure.
From sand to crushed gravel and carrstone, aggregates ensure that structures last for many years and maintain their appearance. Their versatility, strength, and durability make aggregates an essential raw material for all types of projects.
Whether you’re planning a build yourself or want to learn more about the world of aggregate in construction, our guide can help you. We’ll be exploring the role of aggregates, how they’re produced, and the different types of aggregates in the construction industry.
What are Aggregate in Construction Materials?
Aggregates are the materials used for construction or building applications, such as gravel, sand, or crushed stone. They’re fundamental elements of construction that play an incredibly important role in the building of roads, homes, and other infrastructure.
Historically, aggregates can be traced back to the Roman Empire. When aggregates are produced using raw materials, they’re known as primary or quarried aggregate. Aggregates that are produced using other construction materials or demolition waste are known as recycled aggregates. Each type of aggregate offers its own advantages and is best suited to specific applications.
While aggregates may not be the most exciting thing about construction, modern society simply wouldn’t exist without them, since they play a key role in growth and urbanisation.
How are Aggregate in Construction Materials Produced?
The main sources of aggregate in the UK are sandstone, limestone, and igneous rock. These rocks are processed to produce the sizes required for various types of construction and landscaping projects.
First, aggregates are extracted from a quarry through the process of quarrying, using an excavator. They may also be extracted from building sites, such as demolished buildings, to produce recycled aggregates.
After being excavated, aggregates are much larger than the size required for construction projects. So, the next stage of processing is aggregate crushing, where these large pieces of extracted aggregates are broken down into smaller particles.
Different-sized aggregates are required for different types of projects and purposes. Through a process called screening, they’re separated based on size and appearance.
Lastly, depending on the type, the aggregate materials may be washed to remove any impurities and ensure that the final product is clean and ready for use.
Once the final aggregate is ready, it can be used in various construction applications, from foundations for the homes we live in to the roads we drive on.
The Different Types of Aggregate in Construction Materials
There are many types of aggregates in construction, each with its own uses and purposes.
Let’s take a look at some of the different types of aggregate in construction materials:
1) Primary Aggregate
Primary aggregates, or natural aggregates, are raw materials that are extracted from a quarry or sourced from natural deposits. This type of aggregate hasn’t undergone any processing aside from crushing, and includes materials such as rock, gravel, and sand.
Primary aggregate is valued for its predictable performance and adherence to strict industry standards. Typically chosen for its high quality, primary aggregate is often used for applications like concrete production and road construction.
2) Secondary Aggregate
Secondary aggregates are the by-products of other industrial processes that haven’t been previously used in construction, such as slag from steel production.
3) Recycled Aggregate
Recycled aggregate is derived from reprocessing materials that were previously used in construction. These materials (such as concrete, bricks and asphalt) are collected from demolition sites, crushed, and then screened to create recycled aggregates.
While using recycled aggregate is a cost-effective and sustainable choice, you need to ensure that recycled materials meet the necessary construction standards for your project.
With a growing need for sustainable construction practices, using recycled aggregates is a great way to reduce waste and build sustainably.
For High-Quality Aggregates, Contact Middleton Aggregates
With its strength, durability, and variety of properties, aggregate has played a crucial role in construction for many years. However, choosing the right aggregate in construction materials is an important decision that ensures the success of your project.
If you’re unsure about which aggregate you need for your project, or you’re looking for a reliable aggregate supplier, we can help.
At Middleton Aggregates, we offer a large selection of high-quality aggregates, fill materials, and plant hire services for various types of construction and landscaping projects.
Situated in Blackborough End, King’s Lynn, with multiple outlets located across Norfolk, we’re well-prepared to serve the Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire areas.
We pride ourselves on providing not just high-quality aggregates, but also professional advice, reliable deliveries, and a friendly service. Whether you’re undertaking a large commercial development or a small DIY project, our industry expertise makes us your go-to supplier for all your aggregate needs.
For more information on our products and services, visit our website or contact us to find out more.
