Decorative aggregates are stones and gravel of different sorts used to decorate an outdoor space.
They are often used for landscaping, in both commercial and residential outdoor areas, and can also serve as an alternative to mulch. Decorative aggregates make your driveway, garden, driveway, or any other outdoor space beautiful while keeping it unique and professional.
Over time, decorative aggregates have become very popular among property owners. This shouldn’t come as a surprise considering their varying uses and advantages. If you are new to decorative aggregates, intend to use it for your outdoor space, or are generally curious about the cause of its growing popularity , read on, and all your questions will be answered.
Types Of Decorative Aggregates
There are a variety of decorative aggregates on the market. Choosing a suitable stone makes a lot of difference in your outdoor space. Here are some of the most common types of decorative aggregates:
Stone Chippings
Stone chippings are the smallest type of decorative aggregates. Also known as gravel, stone chippings can range from 8 to 20 mm in size and are versatile and cost-effective. Stone chippings are divided into black ice gravel, flamingo gravel, and white polar chippings. They often come in both angular and rounded forms.
Slate Chippings
These give a more natural finish and are often used as an alternative to stone chippings. Slate chippings are usually tiny and angular in shape. They can be used to add a subtle addition to an outdoor project. Examples of slate chippings include plum and green slate and several others in between.
Cobbles
Cobbles are the largest type of decorative aggregate. They are large, measuring between 50 and 150mm, and round in shape. Known as reminiscent of the seaside, cobble can be used to line the perimeters of ponds, paths, and flowerbeds. Examples of cobbles are Rainbow and Belgian Cobblestone.
Pebbles
Similar in shape, and due to their rounded edges, are the safest to use between
chippings and gravel. Pebbles offer identical functions to gravel and chippings.
Why Are Decorative Aggregates Becoming Popular?
There isn’t a fixed answer to this question as there are several reasons why these decorative stones are becoming popular for outdoor landscaping. However, below are some of the most common reasons:
Low Maintenance
In addition to making an outdoor space beautiful, decorative aggregates arelow maintenance. Once used, they require little to no maintenance, and this has made these decorative stones quite popular among both residential and commercial property owners.
Flexibility
One of the major selling points of decorative aggregates is that they are pretty flexible and versatile. Decorative aggregates can be used for several outdoor projects, making them quite functional and popular.
Inexpensive
Decorative aggregates are budget-friendly and, in addition to getting the work done, they add beauty and colour to your property. Plus, they can be used for walkways and driveways, and contacting an experienced aggregates supplier like Hanson to get the work done.
Water Control
When installed correctly, decorative aggregates help control rainwater during rainfall. These stones provide natural drainage and prevent water from gathering into puddles on hard landscaping.
Long-lasting
Decorative aggregates are cost-effective and very durable. These stones don’t get damaged by rain, snow, or any adverse weather conditions.
Variety
Another primary reason decorative aggregates are becoming quite popular in outdoor spaces is the variety of stones available. These stones come in several sizes and colours , which means that there is something to suit every style.
Uses Of Decorative Aggregates
Decorative aggregates are ideal for adding details to space and are flexible. There are several ways these decorative stones can be used such as :
Driveways
Decorative aggregates such as small chippings are incredibly cost-effective for covering a driveway aesthetically and practically.
Ponds
This water feature makes a stunning addition to any home. With a decorative base, ponds
constructed using decorative aggregate have a more pleasing appearance to the eyes. Additionally, they can be used to create a natural-looking walkway around the pond.
Paths
Paths are essential in outdoor spaces, particularly gardens. Decorative aggregates can create unique garden paths and organise the garden look, making it easy for visitors to see certain features of your outdoor space.
Weed Control
Decorative aggregates like pebbles and gravel help reduce weed growth in your outdoor space. Weeds can be troublesome but the use of decorative stones can reduce the amount of time spent weeding.
Flooding Prevention Measure
Flooding can be a real pain and can damage property. Decorative aggregates like pebbles and chippings can be used to make your outdoor space less susceptible to flooding, allowing water to move freely between the stones, improving drainage..
To Create Unique Focal Point
Decorative aggregates add detail to an outdoor space. They can be used to create unique focal points in outdoor spaces in your garden, for instance. This makes them ideal for highlighting the uniqueness of your outdoor space. Additionally, decorative aggregates can hide less desirable aspects of your outdoor space.
Aside from the uses mentioned above, decorative aggregates can be used in various creative and exciting ways around outdoor spaces.
Choosing the Best Decorative Aggregate for Your Outdoor Space
There are several types of decorative aggregates, so choosing the right one can be overwhelming. If you find yourself debating which decorative aggregates work best for an outdoor project, the following suggestions might come in handy:
Choose The Right Size
Depending on the project, the size of decorative aggregates matters a lot. Smaller chippings are best for walking areas and are great for fitting in gaps and spaces around edges. Cobbles, pebbles, and rockery stones work better as features.
Consider The General Look
You should go for decorative aggregates that complement the landscaping and architecture of your house. Chippings give a striking look. Therefore, they can be used in a contemporary garden, while decorative aggregates like Cotswold Buff fit into a more traditional garden scheme. As a general rule, use no more than three to four decorative aggregates so your outdoor space doesn’t look too busy in colour and texture.
Determine The Number Of Decorative Aggregates Needed
How many decorative aggregates would you need to get the project done? If you are not sure of the quantity required, you can get the opinion of an expert aggregates supplier. The quantity usually ranges from bulk bags to poly-bags or even something smaller or bigger, depending on your needs.
Finally, once this decision has been made, you can contact decorative aggregates suppliers, begin a delivery plan, and get the project started.
Conclusion
Who can blame them for becoming popular? Whether used in driveways, gardens, or landscapes, decorative aggregates are incredibly adaptable and provide several advantages to an outdoor setting.
They improve the aesthetics of your property and are less expensive to maintain, so utilising them is a win-win situation.
