How To Determine What Type Of Aggregate You Need For Your Project

Aggregate is one of the most useful materials there is when it comes to building projects of all shapes and sizes. From garden paths to skyscrapers, aggregate is used in everything but it is important that you get the right type of aggregate for your needs. There are dozens of different types of aggregate that each come with their own benefits and negatives. Before you buy your next load of aggregate, consider what you are going to use it for by going through these three key features and then choosing which one is the best for your project.

Size 

Aggregate can be extremely fine, such as sharp sand, or it can be very thick, like ballast. Between these two extremes are many other options but it all comes down to what you intend to use it for. If your aggregate is merely decoration or being used for agricultural purposes, then you may want to look at a more fine variety. If, on the other hand, your aggregate is being used as the base in construction projects such as roads, foundations, or trench fills then you want something a little bit bigger that can handle the rigors of a more intense workload. 

Insulation

Insulation is not often considered when you choose the type of aggregate you want, but it can play a big role. Insulative aggregate can stop the entire building from flexing too much in the hot or cold, which can be a real problem in more extreme weather areas. It can also simply stop buildings from becoming too cold or too hot at any given time. There are certain types of specially manufactured aero aggregates that are made from recycled plastic which are great for insulation, and generally, the larger the aggregate is the better it will be for insulation purposes.

Price

Price should be considered when choosing your aggregate. After all, there are many different types of aggregate that all can kind of do the same job, so why not choose the cheaper alternatives. If your project does not need to adhere to strict building guidelines and is more of a passion project that you are completing in your home or backyard, then a cheaper option is perfectly fine. However, if you want your project to last for decades and to meet all the expectations that the company who commissioned you expect, then you should spare no expense in your aggregate and go for the higher quality variants.