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The Benefits of Kiln-Dried Hardwood Logs for a Warm and Eco-Friendly Home
It’s the season for a wood fire, ensuring your home remains warm and inviting becomes a top priority. One of the most efficient and environmentally friendly ways to achieve this is by using high-quality kiln-dried hardwood logs. At Mainland Aggregates, we pride ourselves on supplying premium firewood that guarantees optimal heat output and a ...Read more... -
Creative Ideas for Using Aggregates in Festive Outdoor Decorations
As the festive season unfolds, many of us look for ways to bring a touch of holiday magic to our outdoor spaces. Decorative aggregates are a versatile and cost-effective way to elevate your garden, driveway, or patio into a winter wonderland. From adding sparkle to lanterns to creating whimsical displays, here are some creative ideas to try this ...Read more... -
How to Prepare Your Garden Paths for Winter: A Guide to Gravel and Sand Maintenance
Winter can be tough on garden paths, with frost, rain, and ice causing wear and tear that can make them unsafe and unsightly. Proper maintenance, using gravel and sand, can keep your pathways functional and looking great throughout the colder months. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your garden paths are winter-ready. 1. Top Up Gravel for...Read more... -
Maintaining Your Gravel Pathways and Driveways: Tips for Longevity
Gravel driveways and pathways, with their rustic elegance, not only add a quaint charm to your property but also offer durability. However, the key to ensuring they last for years and retain their visual appeal is regular maintenance. At Mainland Aggregates, we're specialists in providing high-quality quarried aggregates and decorative ...Read more... -
The Role of Recycled Aggregates in Modern Infrastructure
In an era where sustainable solutions are not just encouraged but imperative, the construction industry has been evolving rapidly. One of the pivotal shifts in infrastructure development is the increasing use of recycled sub-base aggregates in road construction. With benefits ranging from robust strength to prolonged durability, these ...Read more... -
Investing Wisely in the Landscape of Your Home
With the multitude of surfacing materials available for driveways and pathways, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. However, decorative gravels and chippings that we at Mainland Aggregates supply remains a popular choice among homeowners, and for good reasons. Let’s dive into understanding why these chippings are not just a...Read more... -
How Much Rock Salt Should You Stock Up On for Your Home?
As winter slowly creep forward behind Autumn, households across the UK are gearing up to brace for the chilly months ahead. While insulating your home against the biting cold is crucial, ensuring safety in outdoor areas to prevent hazardous slips on ice or compacted snow is also important. The past winter marked the second consecutive year the UK ...Read more... -
How to Store Firewood This Winter
Storing firewood might seem like a straightforward task, but it has several conditions for proper storing. Improperly stored firewood could not only ruin the wood that you have carefully selected but may also be a safety risk to your home and family. We have created a helpful list ofthe best ways to store your Premium Kiln Dried Hardwood Logs from ...Read more... -
Choosing the Right Chippings for Your Yard
Decorative gravel and chippings are a fantastic and inexpensive option for sprucing up your garden or landscape, as well as eco-friendly. Pathways, borders and ornamental features can be truly transformed with the addition of the right gravel or chippings. Mainland Aggregates was a fantastic range of decorative gravel and chippings to choose from, ...Read more... -
The Advantages of Using Mulch in Your Garden
Mulching is a time-tested gardening practice that involves placing a protective layer of material on the soil surface around plants and in garden beds. This layer, known as mulch, offers a range of benefits that contribute to the overall health and productivity of the garden. From nourishing the soil to conserving moisture and controlling weeds, ...Read more... -
Sustainable Landscaping with Self-Binding Gravel and Path Toppings
Sustainable landscaping solutions have emerged as a vital aspect of modern outdoor design, and one such innovative solution gaining popularity is self-binding gravel and path toppings—a versatile and eco-friendly material that offers not only visual appeal but also a range of environmental benefits. In this article, we delve into the world of...Read more... -
Gardening with Sharp Sand
Gardening is a rewarding and therapeutic pursuit that allows us to connect with nature and nurture vibrant plant life. One essential factor that plays a significant role in the success of any garden is soil quality. Soil drainage is a crucial aspect that directly impacts the health and growth of plants. In this article, we will explore the benefits...Read more... -
How to Use Mainland Aggregates Gravel Calculator
Designing and creating a pathway can transform your outdoor space, adding functionality and aesthetic appeal. One important aspect of pathway construction is determining the amount of gravel needed for the project. Calculating the required quantity of gravel ensures you purchase the right amount and minimizes waste. Mainland Aggregates has a useful...Read more... -
How to Build Your Own Garden Patio
Building a garden patio is a rewarding project that can enhance your outdoor living space and provide an inviting area for relaxation and entertainment. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to build a garden patio: Plan and Design: Start by envisioning the desired size, shape, and layout of your patio. Consider factors such as sunlight, drainage...Read more... -
A Guide to Tree Barks
Tree bark serves numerous important purposes in nature for trees. Firstly, it protects the inner layers of the tree trunk from external elements like extreme temperatures, insects, and diseases. Tree bark also has many other uses commercially, such as the production of cork products, used in cooking like cinnamon bark, or used as a natural dye or ...Read more... -
Gravel Wonders: Unleashing the Aesthetic Power of Your Paths
Gravel is not just a staple for a solid base, but it also holds a transformative power that can dramatically enhance the aesthetics of your paths, driveways, and garden. Here at Mainland Aggregates, we pride ourselves in supplying a vast range of gravels designed not only to serve their structural purpose but also to beautify your surroundings.&...Read more... -
Road Planings/Sub Base: The Foundation of Every Great Road
When it comes to building a road that will withstand the test of time and the constant wear and tear of traffic, it all starts beneath the surface with the right sub base material. At Mainland Aggregates, we supply an array of road planings and sub base materials, all crafted to provide the sturdiest of foundations. One of our primary ...Read more... -
Permeable Aggregates (SuDS): The Sustainable Drainage Solution for Modern Landscapes
In the world of landscaping and construction, permeable aggregates (SuDS) are gaining momentum as a sustainable drainage solution. As we face increased urbanisation and greater climate awareness, the need for efficient and sustainable drainage systems has never been more important. That's where our Permeable Aggregates (SuDS) range comes into play....Read more... -
The Power of Mulching: How Bark Chippings Improve Soil and Plant Health
A lush, healthy garden starts with the soil. It's the foundation from which your plants draw their sustenance, and it plays a crucial role in their growth and vitality. One of the most effective ways to improve your soil and, consequently, the health of your plants, is through mulching with bark chippings. This seemingly simple practice can have ...Read more... -
Choosing the Right Garden Stones: Materials, Styles, and Placement
The artful use of garden stones can transform a plain outdoor space into a serene retreat or a vibrant display of colour and texture. They're incredibly versatile, offering both functional benefits such as improved drainage and aesthetic appeal. With so many materials and styles to choose from, picking the right garden stones can be a bit ...Read more... -
Gabion Baskets for Privacy and Sound Control: Creating a Tranquil Outdoor Space
Creating a peaceful, private outdoor space is a cherished goal for many homeowners. While there are various ways to achieve this, one often overlooked other option is the use of gabion baskets. These sturdy wire baskets, filled with stone or materials, serve not only as a unique design feature but also provide excellent privacy and sound control. ...Read more... -
How to Clean Granite Chippings: A Step-by-Step Guide
Granite chippings are a popular choice for landscaping and gardening projects. Their durability, low maintenance, and natural beauty make them a great option for paths, driveways, and decorative features. Although granite chippings tend to remain looking great for most of their lifecycle and often don’t need much TLC, after enough time ...Read more... -
Tarmac Planings: The Perfect Solution for Commercial Grade Projects
What are Tarmac Planings? Tarmac planings (or tarmac scalpings) are an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional tarmac. Tarmac planings are made up of recycled asphalt. These materials are ground down to form small pieces, which are then compacted to form a durable and long-lasting surface. Tarmac planings are an ...Read more... -
What Is Self-Binding Gravel?
Self-binding gravel is a type of decorative gravel that is designed to compact and bind together, forming a stable and long-lasting surface. Unlike traditional loose gravel, self-binding gravel is made up of a combination of small stones, sand, and clay particles that bind together naturally. This creates a firm and stable surface that is resistant...Read more... -
How To Lay Self Binding Gravel
At Mainland Aggregates, we offer a wide range of gravel in various sizes and colours. This includes our best-selling gravel such as the old english self-binding gravel and Cotswold self-binding gravel. Self-binding gravel has become a popular choice for low-maintenance and attractive driveways and garden paths. Unlike traditional loose ...Read more... -
How To Build Outdoor Features With Gabion Baskets
Gabion baskets are an excellent way to create unique and durable outdoor features. Whether you're looking to build a garden wall, a retaining wall, or a planter, gabion baskets can provide an attractive and long-lasting solution. Here's how to build outdoor features with gabion baskets. Choose the Right Size and Shape The ...Read more... -
MOT Type Sub Base: A Comprehensive Guide
MOT Type Sub Base is an essential component of many construction projects, particularly those involving roads, driveways, and other hard surfaces. This material provides a stable base upon which the final surface can be laid, ensuring durability and longevity of the finished product. In this article, we will explore what MOT Type Sub Base is, the ...Read more... -
How To Decorate Your Outdoors With Gabion Stone
Gabion stones can be used to seamlessly tie your home to your landscape. Whether you want to fully re-decorate your outdoor space or simply add something special to a part of your home, gabion stones could be the ideal solution. What Are Gabion Stones Gabion stones are commonly used to fill gabion baskets. Gabion baskets are steel ...Read more... -
Top 5 Most Popular Landscaping Materials For Driveways, Pathways, Gardens And Other Outdoor Space
Decorative aggregates are a popular landscaping material choice for driveways, pathways, gardens and other outdoor spaces. They can be used for a wide range of landscaping projects, from decorative plant borders to pebble mosaic garden pathways. Decorative aggregate's popularity are due to their versatility as well as the large selection of styles ...Read more... -
What Is The Best Driveway Surface To Have In The UK?
Are you considering upgrading the front of your home and wondering what the best driveway surface materials are? Whatever the reason for your driveway deliberation, you’ve come to the right place as we will be going over the pros and cons of each in this post. Why You Should Consider The Best Driveway Surface To Have In The UK When ...Read more... -
Mainland Aggregates Top Cobble Stone For Filling Your Pond
Picking the right type of rock, cobbles and gravel for your pond – and then using it imaginatively once you’ve made your selection – can make such a difference to the overall look and feel of your garden. When it comes to filling your garden pond if you want a really attractive end result, choosing your cobble stones carefully is ...Read more... -
The Best Ways To Fill Joints Between Paving Slabs
After all the time you’ve spent on your paving, the last thing you will want to see is unsightly gaps taking away from your hard work. Filling in the gaps between your paving slabs might seem like a tedious task, but it can make your patio, path, or driveway look a lot neater and more professional.What To Consider Before you get started with...Read more... -
How To Protect Your Driveway From Weeds
A driveway is an often overlooked area of the home, however a clean and tidy driveway can work wonders for the appearance of your property. Like all surfaces, driveways need care and maintenance to ensure they are looking their best. They need comparatively less work than other surfaces, but they can fall victim to the unwanted visitor; weeds. ...Read more... -
Easy Ways To Fill Your Gabion Baskets
Gabion baskets are steel wire mesh baskets usually filled with stones, that are commonly used in structural engineering for protecting shorelines, river banks and slopes from erosion. They can also be used for a variety of other landscaping features, from unique outdoor seating to natural garden borders. Most gabion baskets, also known as gabion ...Read more... -
5 Ways To Use Decorative Pebbles
Using pebbles as a way of landscaping is a really easy way of stamping some originality and personality into your al fresco décor without having to use a tremendous amount of artistic ability. It’s a given that some of us have that special flare for decorating, yet for the vast majority we simply don’t possess the vision to ...Read more... -
Types Of Sand Available Locally
If you live near a beach you might think you have easy access to as much sand as you can get your mitts on but actually, did you know you’d be breaking the law to remove sand and stones from beaches? However, it’s lovely to remain true to local roots, so, when in need of sand for garden projects and builds of your own, it is always ...Read more... -
Self binding gravel explained
Gone are the 80s and their pebble dashed buildings with stony, uncomfortable gravel paths, for it may have looked the part (on the path, I think we can universally agree the pebble dashed houses were forever a mistake) but it didn’t half get everywhere! Inside shoes and the cut knees of children falling, not to mention the treading in as it...Read more... -
What Exactly Is Railway Ballast?
A railway ballast is used as a bed for railway tracks. They provide not only stability to the tracks, but also will offer a great drainage system when in place and support for the loads carried by trains running over them. They are very cleverly engineered into place so that they possess another beauty and offer low maintenance by being tricky ...Read more... -
Why Silica Sand Is Safe For Horses
If you’re a horsey person, then you’ll know that a horse is more than just a pet. A horse is a member of the family, an extension of it in fact, and as you love your family more than anything else in the world, by the same token, that love is offered to your horse too. Once one gives their heart to their horse it is theirs ...Read more... -
Types Of Stone Available For Gabion Walls
You will find more and more, especially when visiting open gardens and nature reserves that the most a la mode way of producing a fast and effective stone wall for both home gardens and places of interest, is to choose a Gabion Stone basket wall. Wire baskets filled with Gabion Stones not only look attractive, but they serve such an important ...Read more... -
Deep Dive Into Cobbles
People often consider pebbles and cobbles to be one and the same but, actually, the differences are do mark one from the other. The way to detect which is which, is by measurement. A pebble will be sized between 0.16 and 2.52 inches according to Britannica, and a cobble will extend from that point to 10.08 inches. Cobbles are round and ...Read more... -
How to use MOT type 3
MOT type 3 is a sub-base material that consists of pure crushed granite, clean crushed concrete, limestone or basalt. This sub-base material might be 75mm or 40mm down depending on the quarried location. MOT type 3 sub base has been screened to create a reduced fines aggregate, making it one of the most widely used sub-bases when a product with ...Read more... -
What are gabion stones?
Gabion stones are one of the most commonly used materials to fill gabion baskets. Gabion stone is a natural way of filling gabion baskets to create an aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound gabion wall or structure...Read more... -
The uses of road planings
Also referred to as road scalpings, tarmac planings or road scrapings, road planings are a by-product of the resurfacing of roads and highways. These are created when the surface layer of tarmac is removed by a cold milling machine. The cold milling machine removes asphalt from the surface sub-base and then this material is ready to be recycled...Read more... -
What is self binding gravel?
Self binding gravel is a mixture of sand, clay and dust that is compacted to create a firm surface. This type of gravel is often used around woodland paths, heritage properties, stately homes and a variety of other areas...Read more... -
The best patio materials for a stunning garden
Whether you have a rental property or live in your forever home, keeping your garden looking its best is something that will give you joy and pleasure. After all, it is an important part of your home. You might be looking for ways to improve the look of your garden space or you may want to simply spruce it up a bit...Read more... -
Advantages and disadvantages of gabion baskets
Gabion baskets are steel wire mesh baskets most commonly used to create retaining walls in order to stabilise slopes and banks and offer protection against erosion. Also known as gabions or gabion cages, gabion baskets can also be used for a variety of other landscaping applications, from unique outdoor seating to natural garden borders. These are ...Read more... -
Many Uses of Sand
Sand is one of the most abundant materials that can be found on earth, offering an almost inexhaustible resource for landscaping, sport, glass manufacturing, water filtration and much more. We supply a wide range of quarried sand at Mainland Aggregates, helping to create a variety of landscapes and surfaces. Let’s take a closer look at the ...Read more... -
The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Firewood Expert
During the colder months of the year, a fireplace becomes an integral part of many homes, helping to create a warm and cosy environment. However, sourcing firewood logs can be a difficult job as there are many factors to consider...Read more... -
The Five Different Types of Driveways
Building an attractive and presentable driveway is key to creating a stunning home exterior. Your driveway is the first spot that people will see when approaching your house, so it is a key signifier of how the rest of the property will look. At Mainland Aggregates, we stock a variety of building materials that can be used to create your dream ...Read more... -
Firewood Logs – Your Questions Answered
With the winter quickly approaching, keeping warm is essential. However, with energy prices rising, households are looking to reduce their heating costs by opting for different ways of heating their homes. According to the Energy Saving Trust, a wood-burning stove can cut a home’s heating bill by 10%. So, it comes as no surprise that households ...Read more... -
Understanding Quarrying: An Animated Guide
Did you know that every year the UK quarries over 300,000,000 tonnes of aggregates? Or that there are 1300 quarries operational around the UK today? Quarries are incredibly important to many aspects of everyday life as aggregates provide the foundation for houses, roads, shops and farms...Read more... -
The Definitive Guide to Seasonal Landscape Maintenance
Did you know that landscaping can boost the resale value of a property? And that many home-buyers would try to knock a percentage off the price of a property if it looked unappealing from the outside? Good landscaping comes with many benefits for you and your home. However, whether you’ve created a beautiful and colourful gravel landscape or your...Read more... -
Why use gabion baskets for retaining walls?
Gabion baskets are one of the many materials used to create retaining walls. Unlike other materials, such as concrete and brick, gabions are highly permeable and are not vulnerate to drainage issues, so water cannot build up, start cracking and, eventually, collapse...Read more... -
Why Are Aggregates So Important in Construction?
Aggregates are incredibly versatile materials that are essential for our everyday life. From being used to manufacture the concrete used to construct buildings and other structures to being vital for landscaping, providing drainage, filling voids and enhancing outdoor spaces...Read more... -
Five Reasons why Granite is the Best Aggregate
Aggregates can be made from a wealth of different materials to fit the environment. From sand to slurry, ores and crushed rock, mined from the ground, there is a wealth of different aggregates. Despite the choice, there is one material that stands out – granite. But what makes granite stone so special...Read more... -
What are recycled aggregates?
The term recycled aggregates is given to construction waste that has been recovered, including asphalt, brick and concrete. These will be aggregates that have been recovered from demolition, construction and excavation waste. To repurpose these aggregates, these will be crushed, mixed and/or graded to meet different requirements...Read more... -
What To Consider When Choosing Surfaces For Your Horse
Making sure your horse is comfortable and safe is essential to maintaining its health, and your horse’s arena surface plays a big role in this. The arena surface can impact your horse’s comfort, health and athletic potential, so it is vital to choose the best possible riding surface...Read more... -
How to Create a Low Maintenance Garden
Gardens are one of the best features of a home. Just spending time in the garden alone comes with plenty of benefits. The Royal Horticultural Society shared a King’s Fund report on the health benefits of gardening which found that the benefits of gardening were diverse and broad, showing significant reductions in anxiety and depression as well as...Read more... -
The best decorative aggregates projects
At Mainland Aggregates, we have provided thousands of aggregates over the years. Our customers have used our aggregates to complete all kinds of projects, from decorative aggregates to enhance the look of outdoor spaces to quarried aggregates for practical purposes and even equestrian surfaces for horse arenas...Read more... -
Tips to create a gravel garden
A gravel garden is a great choice for any sized garden. These are relatively easy to take care of and will look as beautiful as standard gardens. The truth is that not everyone has the time to pull garden weeds every week and not everyone has the skills to take care of a green garden. Gravel gardens give anyone with a green thumb or not the chance ...Read more... -
Rail ballast – Your Questions Answered
Ballast is an essential part of traditional railway tracks. As Rail Technology Magazine explains, “In traditional railway track, the rails are supported and held apart by sleepers or ties, which rest on and are embedded in a coarse granular aggregate known as ballast...Read more... -
Advantages of using gravel as mulch
Mulching should be part of every gardener’s to-do list. Mulch is the name given to a layer of material that covers the soil. Mulching is most often used to protect plants but also has a variety of other benefits, including preventing weed growth, keeping soil moist and increasing its water holding capacity. All of this makes maintenance easier, ...Read more... -
Different types of gravel
Gravel is one of the most popular types of aggregates used for landscape projects for both residential areas and commercial spaces. It’s easy to use, versatile, affordable, low-maintenance and comes in a variety of sizes and colours. But the benefits don’t stop there. Gravel is also great for drainage as it allows water to drain quickly, ...Read more... -
Best-selling gabion stones
Gabion stones are rocks used to fill gabion baskets for a variety of gabion projects, from retaining walls to garden borders. Gabion stones vary in type of rock, colour and size. At Mainland Aggregates, we supply a variety of gabion stone to meet your project’s requirements...Read more... -
The Ultimate Front Garden Makeover
Have you recently moved into a new property and noticed that the entrance needs a spruce up? Perhaps you have been giving attention to your back garden but the front garden has been a bit neglected. Maybe, the front garden simply does not look as good as it once looked – it’s time for a change...Read more... -
9 Ways To Improve Your Patio
A paved patio area in your back garden provides the perfect space in which to enjoy your garden, indulge in al fresco dining, entertain guests, or simply relax with a good book. A patio is also easy to care for; paving stones can be swept to keep leaves and dirt at bay, and can be cleaned with a pressure washer to keep them looking their best...Read more... -
Horse Health And Happiness: Tips From Equestrian Experts
Owning a horse is undoubtedly incredibly fun and rewarding, but it’s also a big challenge and a long-term commitment. After all, the average horse lives for as long as 30 years, with the oldest ever horse living to the ripe old age of 52! That means you can expect to be caring for your horse for decades to come...Read more... -
Transform your Entrance with these Driveway Ideas
First impressions count, which is why having a good driveway is so important! A driveway isn't just a place to park your car, it's a part of your home and the first thing visitors will see when they stop by. Not only that, but it's also a great way to make your home stand out from others on the street and can even increase the kerb appeal ...Read more... -
The Importance of Using Geotextile Membranes
You might have heard the term “geotextile membrane” or “Terram membrane” be thrown around when speaking about building patios, driveways, streets and highways but why are these used and should you use them? ...Read more... -
What Size are Gabion Baskets?
Gabion baskets are versatile wire mesh boxes filled with either organic or inorganic materials, such as gabion stones, concrete or soil. The word gabion derives from the Italian word gabbione which means “big cage”. These can also be called gabion cages or gabions for short, and are sometimes misspelt gabien basket...Read more... -
What is Sharp Sand?
Sharp sand is a gritty, coarse sand that has slightly larger grains than builder’s sand. This sand features angular grains, not rounded like beach sand grains. This versatile sand can be used for a variety of applications, from paving applications to concreting applications and even to loosen clay soil alongside compost. At Mainland Aggregates, ...Read more... -
How to Choose Decorative Aggregates?
So, you want to enhance the look of your outdoors with decorative aggregates. However, after a quick Google search, you notice that there are countless types of aggregates to choose from… gravel, cobbles, pebbles, chippings, and the list goes on. This can quickly become overwhelming if you do not know what you are looking for. ...Read more... -
Add a Splash of Colour to Your Garden with Decorative Stones
Is your garden looking dull and lifeless? Has it seen better days? Maybe it’s time to give it some much needed attention. At Mainland Aggregates, we supply a wide selection of colourful decorative stones perfect to uplift the look of your outdoor space. ...Read more... -
What are Scalpings?
Road scalpings or road planings are produced as a result of the surface layer of a tarmac footpath or road being removed by a cold milling machine. These are low-cost aggregates that offer environmental advantages. Not only are road scalpings made of bitumen which is a natural resource but also, by using scalpings, waste is minimised. Plus, road ...Read more... -
Ways of Using Scottish Pebbles
Scottish pebbles are small, rounded decorative stones that are sourced from Scotland, typically from the beaches of the Scottish Highlands. Also called Highland pebbles or Caledonian pebbles, Scottish pebbles are naturally rounded and smooth due to erosion and come in a variety of colours that will stand out in wet conditions...Read more... -
What are Rubber Chippings?
Rubber chippings, also known as rubber mulch, are a type of inorganic mulch made from recycled rubber, such as rubber from recycled tyres...Read more... -
Which Slate Chippings to Choose?
Slate chippings are a great choice for a variety of landscape projects, from patios and plant borders to water features and more. These decorative aggregates are produced by crushing, screening and washing dug slates, creating a clean product of consistent grade...Read more... -
When to use MOT Type 1?
MOT Type 1 is a certified sub-base material that consists of crushed granite, gritstone, limestone or basalt. Also called Type 1 MOT or DOT Type 1, this sub-base features particles with excellent load-bearing qualities that range from 40mm down to dust, making them easy to compact...Read more... -
What is Rip Rap?
Riprap is the name in American English given to rock armour. Also called rip rap, rubble and shot rock, this type of coarse crushed rock is used to prevent scouring as well as water erosion, wave erosion and ice erosion. Rip rap can be found on rivers, streams and coastlines protecting structures against the power of waves by dissipating the energy...Read more... -
What Is The Best Mulch To Use?
Mulch can be found spread around gardens and other green spaces all across the country, and for a good reason. Mulch is used to retain moisture in the soil, control weed growth, prevent frost heaving in the winter, keep the soil cool during the summer, as well as make garden beds look beautiful...Read more... -
What To Do With Gabion Baskets?
Gabion baskets have been used all around the world for centuries. Ancient Egyptians used baskets filled with stone to protect the banks of the River Nile whilst, years later, Europeans used similar baskets to make military fortifications...Read more... -
Types of Geotextile Membranes
Also known as Terram membrane, a geotextile membrane is a type of protective fabric used in civil engineering and landscape projects. These are essential components when making driveways, land drains, paving, pathways and Equestrian arenas...Read more... -
Best-selling Decorative Stones
Decorative stones adorn gardens everywhere, and for a good reason. Decorating gardens and landscapes with stone and other decorative aggregates is versatile, affordable and low-maintenance. Whether you are looking for a way to enhance your outdoor space at a cost or want to add more colour to your garden space – decorative stones are a great ...Read more... -
Mot Type 1: Your Questions Answered
MOT Type 1 or Type 1 MOT is a popular type of sub-base used for highways, driveways, car parks and footpaths. This sub-base consists of limestone, gritstone or basalt and granite crushed to 40mm down to dust to create small particles easy to compact...Read more... -
Types of Landscape Sand
Sand is an abundant naturally-occurring material used for various applications across a multitude of industries, from being using to shape golf courses in landscaping projects to being the main component for making concrete, an essential construction material...Read more... -
Best-Selling Slate Chippings
Slate chippings, also known as Welsh slate, are versatile aggregates used for all kinds of landscape projects, from driveways and footpaths to water features and plant borders...Read more... -
How to Build a Gabion Wall
Whether you want to create decorative garden dividers or a unique front garden fence, a gabion wall will be a great choice for both these projects. Gabion walls are strong outdoor structures that not only provide a firm and permeable base but also add a natural element to any outdoor area when filled with organic materials, such as gabion stones...Read more... -
Gravel vs Shingle: What’s the Difference?
Knowing the difference between gravel and shingle will help you choose the right type of aggregate for your next landscape project. Whether you want to build a driveway using aggregates or want to add aggregates to your garden space to build a water feature, it is essential to know the difference between the different types of decorative aggregates...Read more... -
Mainland Aggregates Helps Local Prince’s Trust Project
At Mainland Aggregates, we are proud to have been recently involved with a local Prince’s Trust project. We donated bags of gravel and geotextile membrane to help renovate the garden of Holman House, a supported living shelter in Bedford...Read more... -
How to Choose the Right Sub-Base Type
Whether you are creating a patio, driveway or any other type of paving, adding the right sub-base is essential. A sub-base is the layer below the base layer that usually consists of crushed aggregates or recycled aggregates. This extra layer provides strength and support to the overlying surface. Plus, it helps to spread the load evenly over the ...Read more... -
Decorative Aggregates 101: Slate Chippings
Slate chippings are used in public and private garden spaces all across the country. These are versatile decorative aggregates that can be used to edge footpaths, create plant borders and more. Whether you have worked with slate chippings before or want to add slate chippings to your back garden – it’s only normal to have some questions. Today...Read more... -
What are Aggregates and How to Use Them?
Aggregates, pronounced ag-ruh-guhts, are a major component of asphalt and concrete. This material can be found in almost every part of our day-to-day lives, from highways and bridges to sidewalks and buildings. As Jamal Khatib says in Sustainability of Construction Materials, “Aggregate is the world’s number one non-fuel mineral commodity in ...Read more... -
The Benefits of Using Mulch
Mulch is an important landscape material. A freshly mulched garden looks stunning. However, mulching gardens and other outdoor spaces is done for more than decorative purposes. Whether you want to control weed growth or improve soil moisture – mulch is essential...Read more... -
Geotextile Membranes: Your Questions Answered
Geotextile membrane, sometimes misspelt as geo textile membrane, geotex membrane or geotech membrane, is an essential component for landscape projects but why is this? What is geotextile fabric and how to use it? Today, we are answering these and many other questions that you might have about geotextile membranes...Read more... -
Guide into Decorative Aggregates: Types of Decorative Aggregates
Are you curious to know more about the different types of decorative aggregates available? Are you looking to see which decorative aggregate is best suited for your landscaping project? Today, we are sharing the ins and outs of decorative aggregates and all the types that can be purchased online at Mainland Aggregates Ltd...Read more... -
Types of Welsh Slate Chippings
For centuries, slate has been used for roofing whilst thicker slabs have been also used for flooring, headstones and worktops. During the 19th century, the Penrhyn Quarry, located near Bethesda, North Wales, was one of the largest slate quarries in the world. Today, this quarry still produces slate albeit at a much-reduced capacity...Read more... -
Cobbles vs Pebbles: How to Choose the Right One for Your Landscape Project?
Both cobbles and pebbles are great additions to any outdoor space. It is impressive how much of an impact such small details can have on a space. Whether you want to add an area of interest in your back garden or want to add a water feature to your patio, cobbles and pebbles will be a must-have...Read more... -
Decorative Aggregates 101: Decorative Gravel
Decorative aggregates, such as decorative gravel and decorative chipping, are used to landscape outdoor spaces of commercial and residential properties. These are often used as an alternative to mulch and offer endless landscaping possibilities...Read more... -
Everything You Need To Know About Gabion Baskets
Gabion baskets have been used for thousands of years in civil engineering and outdoor landscaping projects. Whether you have been searching for “gabion stone suppliers near me” or are curious to know more about gabion baskets, look no further. To give you some insight into these functional yet decorative outdoor structures, we will answer some ...Read more... -
What Is Silica Sand?
Silica sand, also known as quartz sand and industrial sand, is a common type of sand that can be found worldwide. However, there are only a few locations where true sub-angular silica sand can be found. At Mainland Aggregates, we supply a selection of silica sand, and today, we are going to answer any and all silica sand related questions you might...Read more... -
What Happens to Skip Waste?
What Happens to Skip Waste? Rubbish skips are designed to make waste disposal as convenient as possible. Since most of us cannot transport large amounts without professional help, it’s no wonder that over 17 million skips are hired every year in the UK for domestic use alone. What happens to general waste from skips really depends on ...Read more... -
Popular Commodities Causing Deforestation
In 2019, global warming has reached a state of crisis. The planet is burning, the ice caps are melting and the weather is becoming more and more unpredictable. In August, the Amazon caught fire and hasn’t stopped now for over a week. We are now being forced to face the consequences of our actions; for too long, we simply haven’t been ...Read more... -
Top 10 Most Creative Driveways
Take a look through our infogrpahic showing you ten of the most creative driveways we've found...Read more... -
The Importance of Good Quality Firewood
How important is it to use good quality firewood? We explain...Read more... -
Green Roof Construction
An interesting blog post by a customer who used Mainland Aggregates Ltd to supply materials for a Green Roof...Read more... -
Choosing The Perfect Site For Your Riding Arena
Choosing the correct site is vital when planning a Riding Arena our Inforgraphic below gives you info on everything you need to know from access to drainage requirements and membranes required. ...Read more... -
Why we’re rightly proud of our past projects
At Mainland Aggregates, we have supplied countless tonnes of recycled aggregates, quarried aggregates and decorative aggregates to the public and private sectors. We have enjoyed working on a variety of projects and it is always exciting to see how our range of high-quality aggregates to used in different industries and sectors...Read more... -
How to Lay Your Own Lawn: All You’ll Ever Need to Know
Our latest guide takes your through from start to finish how to lay your own lawn - step by step...Read more... -
Gardening Experts Share Their Top Summer Gardening Tips
Gardening experts and bloggers share their number one gardening tips to maintain a happy, healthy garden in the summer...Read more... -
15 Growing Gardening Blogs That Will Inspire You
Here we present our 15 Growing Gardening Blogs That Will Inspire You including a list of the webs most prominent gardening bloggers...Read more... -
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Vertical Garden
At first glance, one might not think that small spaces and gardening are much of a match, but the revolutionary idea of vertical gardens is quickly changing that perception. When we say “nature”, “organic”, “herbs” or “vegetables”, we immediately think about large open spaces, bathed in sunlight, ...Read more... -
The Ultimate Guide to Lawn Care
A perfect, lush, green lawn is something that countless homeowners hope to achieve. But as modest as this goal may seem, don’t be fooled into thinking that it is easily obtained. If you’ve spent at least some Saturday mornings mowing and watering your lawn, you’ll know that a perfect lawn is actually a hard task. After all, the ...Read more... -
Gabion Walls: What They Are and 10 Benefits of Using Them
You’ve probably seen them in all kinds of places: wire baskets of stones piled up against slopes and rivers, or neatly dividing green spaces. Gabion walls have seen a resurgence in use and popularity lately, but they are far from new. Used by military and structural engineers for thousands of years, including on the banks of the River Nile, ...Read more... -
Seven Celebrities You Never Knew Were Horse Fanatics
Everyone loves to hear about their favourite celebs and their pets. Especially if you are a pet lover yourself. But what about you horse fanatics out there? What A-list celebs consider themselves horse fans? You probably know some of them already – Katie Price, Martin Clunes, and Jennifer Saunders being three of the most famous - but there ...Read more... -
Equestrian Arena Costs: New vs Recycled
Constructing your own equestrian arena (or manege) can be a worthwhile investment, and is relatively easy if done properly - but it can be costly. We've compared the cost of buying new and recycled components for your arena so you can do your bit for the environment, as well as saving a bit of cash...Read more... -
The Best Equestrian Blogs of 2016
The web isn’t short of equestrian related websites, and so separating the wheat from the chaff can prove difficult. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the very best equestrian blogs of 2016 that all horse lovers should check out at least once...Read more... -
Ask The Experts: How Would You Use Slate Chippings In Your Garden?
Slate chippings are a versatile aggregate that can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. But if you’re feeling a little lost for inspiration, we have asked industry experts to share how they would use slate chippings in their own garden...Read more... -
Imaginative Ways To Store Your Firewood
Correct firewood storage is important. Get it wrong and you could end up ruining your wood, and having nothing to keep your stove burning in the winter months. If you have just bought your first wood burning stove, or you’re looking for a few tips on how to source & store your wood, we’ve put together a detailed guide on ...Read more... -
Getting to Know Your Garden Soil
Having a basic understanding of your garden soil and its pH level will not only help keep your garden healthy but will give you a better understanding of the plants that will and won’t flourish within it. Many amateur gardeners are put off learning the ins and outs of ‘gardening science’, thinking it might all be a little over their heads. ...Read more... -
101 Ways To Be More Eco-Friendly Today
We only have one planet, and taking care of it is everyone’s responsibility. We all know that we need to be more eco-friendly and live a greener life for the future of our planet, but often we don’t know how to live a greener life. A lot of people have the same attitude when it comes to going green: how much impact can I really have on...Read more... -
The Ultimate Guide to Garden Paving Cleaning and Maintenance
All types of paving need maintenance in order to preserve their looks and qualities. Cleaning the garden paving on a regular basis may sound daunting but is, in fact, simple to carry out. Once you know the ABCs of basic maintenance, you can rejuvenate your garden paving by yourself. There are a plethora of cleaning products on the market that ...Read more... -
15 Alternatives to Grass for Gardens
It is always refreshing to see lush green sceneries, particularly if it’s your own lawn or garden. Grass seeds are usually planted to achieve this tranquil and invigorating ambiance. Little did most people know that keeping grass lawns green could be high maintenance—constant moving, watering, and fertilizing is a requisite. A pain in ...Read more... -
17 Experts Reveal the Best Ways to Attract Wildlife to your Garden
Building your own wildlife garden is a fantastic way to bring a touch of the natural countryside to your backyard. Choose the right plants and features, and you can create beautiful and sustainable habitats for local critters like birds, foxes, hedgehogs, insects and frogs. With some of Britain’s native species in plight, it’s also an ...Read more... -
Horse Health and Happiness: Tips from Equestrian Experts
Owning a horse is undoubtedly incredibly fun and rewarding, but it’s also a big challenge and a long-term commitment. After all, the average horse lives for as long as 30 years, with the oldest ever horse living to the ripe old age of 52! That means you can expect to be caring for your horse for decades to come. If you want your ...Read more... -
The Complete Guide to Designing & Building A Rockery for Your Garden
Rockeries, rock gardens or alpine gardens are types of gardens that have stones, rocks, and boulders as a prominent landscape feature. They give your garden that much-needed natural feel and in addition serve numerous functions...Read more...