When managing water in construction and landscaping projects, selecting the right type of aggregate is essential. At Mainland Aggregates, we provide both quarried drainage aggregates and permeable aggregates, each serving distinct purposes. Understanding the differences between these types of aggregates will help you choose the best option for your project’s requirements.

Quarried Drainage Aggregates

Quarried drainage aggregates are specifically selected and processed to facilitate efficient water drainage. These aggregates are primarily used in traditional drainage systems where the goal is to rapidly remove excess water from the site to prevent flooding and water damage.

Key Features of Quarried Drainage Aggregates:

1. Effective Water Removal: Designed to create channels that efficiently direct water away from the construction site.

2. Various Sizes and Grades: Available in different sizes and grades to suit specific applications, ensuring effective drainage.

3. Applications: Commonly used in drainage trenches, French drains, and foundations where proper drainage is crucial for maintaining structural integrity.

Selecting the correct size and grade of quarried drainage aggregates is vital to ensure proper functionality. Incorrectly chosen materials can lead to inadequate drainage, causing potential issues such as erosion, structural damage, and waterlogging.

Permeable Aggregates (SuDS)

Permeable aggregates are essential for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). They manage water effectively by allowing it to infiltrate the ground slowly, thereby preventing both immediate surface flooding and the overwhelming of drainage systems.

Key Features of Permeable Aggregates:

1. Slower Runoff: Permeable aggregates slow down water runoff, enabling it to infiltrate the ground gradually rather than rushing into drainage systems. This reduces the immediate load on drainage infrastructure.

2. Natural Infiltration: Water percolates through the gaps between the aggregates and into the underlying soil, mimicking natural processes. This allows the ground to absorb water gradually and helps replenish groundwater levels.

3. Flood Prevention: By controlling the rate at which water enters the ground and drainage systems, permeable aggregates help prevent surface flooding. The ground absorbs water more evenly over a longer period, reducing the risk of flooding.

4. Reduced Surface Water: Gradual infiltration lowers the amount of surface water, minimising flood risk in areas where permeable aggregates are used.

At Mainland Aggregates, we offer a range of permeable aggregates, including Type 3 MOT, 2-6mm Clean Stone, 4-20mm Clean Stone, and 1-4mm Joint Filling Aggregate. These are ideal for creating effective and environmentally friendly drainage layers.

Choosing between quarried drainage aggregates and permeable aggregates depends on your project's specific needs. For projects requiring rapid water removal, such as traditional construction foundations, quarried drainage aggregates are the best choice. For projects focused on sustainable water management and reducing environmental impact, permeable aggregates are ideal.

At Mainland Aggregates, we are committed to providing high-quality materials and expert advice to help you select the best solution for your drainage needs. Whether you need efficient water removal or sustainable drainage solutions, we have the right aggregates for you. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements and benefit from our nationwide delivery service.