Decorative aggregates explained

'Decorative aggregates' is a term used to describe all sorts of different stone that can be used to transform an outdoor space. This includes garden gravel but can also include the likes of driveway shingle, garden stones, cobbles and pebbles, rockery stones, and slate and granite chippings.

Decorative aggregates, including garden gravels, can have a multitude of different uses in your outside spaces. Here are just a few of them:

Gravel: a hugely versatile choice

Gravel is one of the most popular forms of decorative aggregates and one of the main reasons for this is the multitude of different ways it can be used. Some gravels are designed to look as attractive as possible, whilst others have a more practical appeal. Of course, there are also gravels that combine both of these properties, offering hard-wearing durability along with a great appearance to enhance your outside space. Gravels that are popular for both looks and durability include the likes of Autumn Gold Flint 8-12mm, Golden Gravel 10-20mm, Premium Quartzite Pea Gravel 10mm, and Cornish Stone 8-25mm.

Gravel for driveways

One of the most popular reasons that people buy gravel, and any sort of decorative garden aggregate, is to create a driveway or resurface one that is already there. It offers a really practical and cost-effective option, especially if there is a big area to cover.

If you are going to buy gravel for a driveway, there are a couple of things that you should think about when you are making your choice. First of all, consider how deep you want your gravel to be. If you are using 10mm gravel, you probably want to go for a depth of around 40mm-50mm. If you opt for 20mm gravel, this will go up to 50mm-60mm.

Another thing to consider is the shape of the gravel that you need to use. In general, angular shapes will work best. This is because the chippings will fit more tightly together than more rounded stones. This will make the surface you create firmer under your vehicle or when you walk on it. This is also important if you want to do as much as possible to prevent your gravel from sliding downhill. It is also worth noting that the smaller the pieces of gravel are, the tighter they will fit together.

We make it as easy as possible to decide on the gravel you need by listing sizes on our website and also telling you about the shape of the garden gravel and chippings you are interested in.

Another thing to consider when creating a driveway is the durability of the decorative aggregates you choose. Slate, for example, may look attractive, but it can break under heavy loads such as vehicles. You also need to think about the location where you are planning to position your gravel. A porous, light-coloured stone may look like it will brighten up a shady area, for example, but it may also attract algae and so may be a bad choice if you don’t want the hassle of regular maintenance.

Decorative aggregates to complement each other

As explained, gravel is just one type of garden aggregate and there are many that would make just as welcome additions to your garden space, such as garden stones and cobbles. There are also many ways in which you can make use of other decorative garden aggregates to complement and complete a gravelled garden look. A few ways in which other decorative aggregates can work with gravel include:

Garden stones and cobbles can top gravel to add a more structural appearance to some areas. This is a particularly popular approach when creating a Japanese-inspired space, for example. Large rockery stones can be used to represent islands, while raked gravel is used to create a depiction of water in the surrounding area.

Garden cobbles and stones are also useful for edging paths and specifically marked out gravel areas. This not only finishes off the appearance of an area but can also be useful in preventing the gravel from moving around.

Take a look at our range of decorative aggregates at Decorative Gardens today.