Aggregates

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Aggregates

Aggregates are the foundation of every successful paving, concrete, or landscaping project. From the sub-base that goes beneath your patio to the sharp sand that beds your slabs and the ballast that makes your concrete, choosing the right aggregate for the job matters as much as the surface material above it.

George Davies Turf stocks a range of construction-grade aggregates for trade and domestic customers across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and the surrounding areas. Available in 850-950kg bulk bags for delivery or as a loose scoop collection from our St. Albans branch, our aggregates are consistently graded and ready for the job.

All bulk bags are delivered by crane-equipped vehicles and placed where you need them on site. Contact our team for help calculating the right material and quantity for your project.

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DRIVERS YOU CAN RELY ON

High-quality products are only half the story at George Davies; expert delivery and after-care are just as important. From your first enquiry to the moment your aggregate arrives on site, every customer is looked after by our friendly, experienced team.

Local, Fast & Reliable Deliveries

We deliver across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and the surrounding areas, operating from our branches in St. Albans and Olney.

Delivery Slots & Lead Times

  • Standard lead time for online orders is three working days
  • Need it sooner? Get in touch and we will always try to help
  • Deliveries are made Monday to Friday, 7:00am to 5:00pm
  • We send a text message to the number provided at checkout on the day of delivery
  • Bulk bags are delivered by our Manitou telehandler (approx. 2.2m / 7ft wide), please ensure clear vehicle access to your site
  • Bags are placed on your driveway, hardstanding, or kerbside as agreed at the time of order

Precision Placement on Site

Our experienced drivers deliver using our Manitou telehandler, which works like an offloading forklift and can place bulk bags precisely where you need them, even in tighter access situations. Let us know of any access restrictions when you order and we will do our best to accommodate. Alternatively, collect a loose scoop direct from our St. Albans branch if you have a trailer or suitable vehicle.

For full delivery information including areas covered, visit our Delivery page.

What is the difference between sharp sand and building sand?

Sharp sand (also called grit sand or coarse sand) has a coarser, more angular grain than building sand. This makes it the better choice for bedding paving slabs, mixing mortar for heavy slabs, and drainage layers. Building sand is finer and softer, used mainly for bricklaying mortar and pointing. If you are laying paving, always use sharp sand in the bedding layer.

What is MOT Type 1 and what is it used for?

MOT Type 1 is a crushed limestone aggregate graded at 0-40mm that compacts to form a dense, load-bearing sub-base. It is the standard material used beneath driveways, patios, paths, block paving, and any hard-standing area where a solid foundation is required. It conforms to Highways Agency Clause 803 specification. Lay it at a compacted depth of 100mm for pedestrian areas, or 150-200mm for driveways and areas subject to vehicle traffic.

How much aggregate do I need for my project?

This depends on the material, the depth you are working to, and the area you need to cover. As a guide: one bulk bag of MOT Type 1 covers approximately 7-9m² at 100mm. Sharp sand covers around 19-21m² at 25mm (standard paving bedding depth). Ballast covers approximately 6-7m² at 100mm for a concrete pour. Granite dust at 50mm covers around 10.5-12m² per bag. If you would like us to calculate the right quantity for your project, get in touch and our team will work it out for you.

Can I collect aggregates rather than having them delivered?

Yes. A loose scoop collection is available from our St. Albans branch, Monday to Friday, 7:00am to 5:00pm. This is a popular option for landscapers and builders with a trailer, tipper van, or grab lorry. It works well if you need a smaller quantity than a full bulk bag or want to avoid a delivery lead time. Contact us to arrange your collection time and we will have it ready for you.

What mix ratio should I use for ballast and cement?

For general-purpose concrete (shed bases, paths, and light foundations), use 4 parts ballast to 1 part cement. For structural footings or areas carrying heavier loads, use a 3:1 ratio. One 850-950kg bulk bag of ballast mixed at 4:1 requires approximately 9 bags of 25kg cement. Always add water gradually to achieve a workable consistency without weakening the finished concrete.

What is granite dust used for?

Granite dust (also called crusher dust or granite fines) is a fine, angular aggregate used as a surface material for garden paths and driveways. Its particles bind together under compaction and rainfall, creating a stable, low-maintenance surface without the need for resin or binder. It is also used as a levelling layer under artificial turf, and as a jointing material between large stepping stones. Lay it at 50-75mm depth over a compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base for the best result.