Choosing the Right Construction Aggregates
AWBS supplies sand and gravel, hardcore and specialist aggregates for a wide range of building, landscaping and drainage applications. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right materials:
- Building sand: Our mixed building sand is suitable for mortar, brickwork and paving, while soft building sand is commonly used for bricklaying and blockwork.
- Sharp sand: A coarse, gritty sand commonly used for concreting, floor screeds, external rendering and bedding paving slabs. Shop sharp sand.
- Ballast: A blend of sand and gravel used to make general-purpose concrete for shed bases, paths, foundations and securing fence posts. Shop 20mm concreting ballast.
- Hardcore and sub-base aggregates: MOT Type 1 hardcore compacts to form a solid sub-base for patios, driveways and concrete bases. MOT Type 3 is a similar free-draining option, making it suitable for permeable paving and other projects where drainage is important.
- Shingle and specialist aggregates: Pea shingle is a versatile option for drainage, backfilling and general landscaping, while limestone grits and granite aggregates can be used for bedding, surfacing and other groundwork.
- Self-binding gravel: Made from crushed limestone, our self-binding gravel compacts to create a firm, hard-wearing surface for garden paths, walkways and cycle routes.
- Gabion stone: Our Gabion Rock consists of large pieces of natural stone, ideal for filling gabion baskets to create retaining walls, support steep banks and build decorative landscaping features.
For further advice, read our guide to choosing the right aggregate.
Construction Aggregate Bag Sizes & Bulk Supplies
Whether you need a few bags for a DIY job or several tonnes for larger building work, AWBS offers flexible options to suit your requirements.
Our construction aggregates come in a choice of 23kg small bags, 450kg half bulk bags and 850kg jumbo bulk bags. Individual bags are handy for repairs and quick DIY tasks, with many included in our popular 5 bags for the price of 4 offer for even better value.
For larger projects, such as patios, driveways and shed bases, half bulk and jumbo bags are generally more economical. For added convenience, we can also arrange loose aggregate deliveries for bulk orders. Contact your local AWBS branch to discuss availability and get a quote.
How Much Aggregate Do I Need?
The amount of aggregate you'll need depends on the size of the area, the depth required and the material you're using. You'll also need to allow for compaction when calculating quantities of sub-base materials such as MOT Type 1 hardcore.
To work out the volume in cubic metres, multiply the length, width and depth in metres. You'll also find approximate coverage recommendations on our individual product pages to help you plan your order.
If you'd like some help with the calculations, try our online aggregate calculator to estimate how much you'll need. Just enter your measurements and the tool will do the maths for you.
Recycled Construction Aggregates
Looking for a more sustainable, budget-friendly alternative? Our AWBS Eco Range includes a number of recycled aggregates, including sharp sand, ballast and shingle.
Made from recovered building materials, these aggregates are processed for reuse, with options suitable for everything from pipe bedding and drainage to floor screeds, paving and light concreting work. They help reduce demand for newly quarried materials and are often more affordable too, making them a practical choice for many building and landscaping jobs.
Browse our recycled Eco Shingle and other Eco Range products to compare specifications and find the right option for your needs.
Why Buy Construction Aggregates from AWBS?
AWBS has been supplying building aggregates to trade customers and homeowners since 1988. As an independent, family-run aggregate supplier, we pride ourselves on offering competitive prices, dependable stock levels and friendly, knowledgeable service.
With our own aggregates bagging facility, we can supply a wide range of sand, gravel and hardcore products in different bag sizes, while keeping prices competitive.
Buying from AWBS is easy. Shop online or visit your nearest branch in Oxford, Yarnton or Swindon, where our team is happy to assist you. We offer free local aggregate delivery with no minimum spend for eligible local postcodes, using our own fleet of vehicles.
Check your postcode for free delivery, or contact your nearest AWBS branch for product advice, bulk orders or collection enquiries.
Construction Aggregates – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between building sand and sharp sand?
Building sand is generally finer and is commonly used for mortar, bricklaying and blockwork. Sharp sand has a coarser, grittier texture, making it better suited to floor screeds, concrete mixes and bedding paving slabs.
Which aggregate should I use for a patio or driveway sub-base?
MOT Type 1 hardcore is a popular choice for creating a firm, compacted sub-base beneath patios, paths and driveways. MOT Type 3 is an alternative for permeable paving systems where water needs to drain through. Learn more about SuDS-compliant paving options here.
How much construction aggregate will I need?
This depends on the area you are covering, the depth required and the type of material. Check the approximate coverage information on our product pages or ask our team at your local AWBS branch for help estimating quantities and choosing the right bag sizes.
Can I get free delivery of sand, gravel and aggregates?
Yes. AWBS offers free local delivery of sand, gravel and construction aggregates with no minimum order for eligible postcodes around Oxford, Yarnton and Swindon. Use our free postcode checker to see if your address qualifies.
Can AWBS supply loose aggregates for large projects?
Yes. We can arrange bulk aggregate supplies, including loose loads for larger building and landscaping jobs, subject to availability. Contact your local AWBS branch to discuss quantities, prices and delivery arrangements.
