At Cheshire Soils, we’re proud to supply high-quality construction aggregates to builders, landscapers, and contractors across Altrincham, Manchester, and throughout Cheshire. Aggregates are essential in almost every type of construction project – whether it’s creating strong foundations, improving drainage, or enhancing landscaping projects.
But what exactly are aggregates, and which ones should you use for your project? Here’s our quick guide.
What Are Aggregates?
The term aggregates covers a wide range of construction materials including sand, gravel, crushed stone, and recycled alternatives. These materials form the backbone of construction projects, offering strength, stability, and durability.
Common Uses of Aggregates
Aggregates are used across a variety of applications such as:
- Concrete and road construction
- Brick making and block paving
- Drainage and bedding
- Sub-bases and capping layers
- Backfill and landscaping
Types of Construction Aggregates
Recycled Aggregates
A sustainable, cost-effective choice made from reprocessed materials like concrete, brick, and hardcore. Recycled aggregates help reduce landfill use and are available in a range of densities and colours.
Granite
Durable and attractive, granite is widely used for block paving, concrete, and decorative landscaping such as driveways and pathways.
Limestone
Popular for road construction, concrete, and as a soil neutraliser, limestone is a versatile aggregate with multiple uses.
Sandstone
Strong and weather-resistant, sandstone (including gritstone) is commonly used in building projects and asphalt.
Demolition Waste
Recycling demolition waste offers an eco-friendly solution, creating aggregate from brick, hardcore, and concrete for reuse in construction.
How Are Aggregates Produced?
Aggregates are either quarried directly from the earth using controlled processes, or made by recycling demolition waste. Materials are typically crushed, screened, and graded to produce different sizes and qualities suitable for construction needs.
Popular Aggregate Materials in Cheshire
- Type 1 Sub-base (MOT Type 1): Crushed to 0-40mm, ideal for roads, driveways, and pathways.
- 6F2 / 6F5 Capping: A 0-75mm crushed material, perfect for development platforms and heavy-duty bases.
- Building & Grit Sands: Used in bricklaying, screeding, ducting, and rendering.
- Pipe Bedding: Screened to 10mm–20mm for excellent drainage around pipes.
- Clean Stone: Coarse aggregate, perfect for drainage and bedding.
- Clay (Engineering Clay): Impermeable, used for pond lining, water features, and brickmaking.
Cheshire Soils – Supplying Aggregates Across Cheshire and Greater Manchester
At Cheshire Soils, we supply a wide range of construction-grade aggregates for domestic and commercial projects across Altrincham, Manchester, Cheshire, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re laying a new driveway, building a foundation, or improving drainage, we can provide the right materials for the job.
✅ Looking for aggregates in Cheshire, Manchester & The North West?
Contact Cheshire Soils today to discuss your project needs. We’ll supply the right materials, on time, at competitive prices.
Need help with your project?
Call: 0161 302 2765
Email: info@cheshiresoils.co.uk
Suite 1, Unit 2, Edward Court, Altrincham Business Park, WA14 5GL
