Curious about what are your options for driveways aggregate? Choosing the right type of aggregate can make a big difference in how your driveway looks and performs. Here's a beginner-friendly guide to help you decide.
Choosing the Right Aggregate for Your Driveway
Driveways come in all shapes and sizes. Some are short and flat, while others are long or have slopes. Because of this, the best type of aggregate depends on how your driveway is used and what you want it to look like.
If you’re after something easy to look after, crushed stone is a good option. It stays in place and can handle heavy cars. For a more stylish look, you might like pea shingle or colourful gravel, which can match your garden or house. Resin-bound gravel is neat and tidy and doesn’t move around, but it usually costs more and needs a professional to install it.
In the end, it’s all about what suits your needs best. Some people care most about looks, others want something that lasts a long time, and some just need something affordable.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Driveway Aggregate
Before picking your driveway surface, it’s important to think about a few key things. First, how often do cars use it? If it gets a lot of traffic, the surface will need to be strong and long-lasting. Areas with heavy rain will benefit from aggregates that drain water well.
Another thing to think about is the slope. On a steep driveway, some loose stones might move out of place, so a more stable option may be better. You should also think about how much care you’re happy to give it. Some aggregates need raking and topping up. Others, like resin-bound gravel, don’t need much work at all.
Lastly, your budget matters. There are options to suit all price ranges. Deciding what’s most important to you—looks, strength, or low upkeep—will help guide your choice.
Popular Driveway Aggregate Options
There are lots of choices when it comes to aggregates for your driveway. Gravel is a favourite for many people. It’s easy to find, affordable and comes in different sizes and colours. Pea shingle is another option. It’s made from small, round stones that give a smooth finish, but they can shift around a bit more easily.
Crushed stone is a good option if you want something that stays put and gives extra grip underfoot. For a smoother, more modern look, resin-bound gravel works well. The stones are mixed with a special glue so they stick together. It doesn’t scatter, but it does cost more and needs to be installed by a professional.
Each type of aggregate has its own benefits, so it’s worth looking at samples or speaking to your supplier about what works best for your space.
Installation Considerations for Aggregate Driveways
Installing a driveway takes more than just pouring stones on the ground. First, the ground needs to be cleared, levelled, and often topped with a strong base layer to stop the top layer from sinking or moving. Loose stones like gravel or shingles might need edges or borders to keep them in place.
For resin-bound driveways, a flat surface is prepared and then the mix of stones and resin is spread out evenly. It needs time to dry and set before being used. While it takes more effort to install, the result is smooth and low maintenance.
No matter which type you choose, a well-installed driveway will last longer and be much easier to look after.
Maintenance Tips for Aggregate Driveways
Looking after your driveway doesn’t have to be difficult. Over time, you might notice some stones moving or sinking. A quick rake can help even things out. It’s also good to sweep away leaves and dirt to keep it looking neat and to stop moss from growing.
Weeds can sometimes pop up between stones, but pulling them out early or using a weed barrier can help. If you see any thin patches where the stones are wearing away, it’s easy to top them up with more of the same type.
Resin-bound driveways usually need less attention, but you should still check for cracks or damage—especially after cold winters. With a little care, your aggregate driveway can stay looking smart and working well for many years.
Looking for reliable aggregate suppliers in Reading, Wokingham and surrounding areas? Click below to find trusted professionals offering quality sand, gravel, crushed stone, and recycled materials for your construction needs.
