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Mainland Aggregates Ltd Your Go-To Source for High-Quality Decorative Gravels & Chippings Trade and Domestic Customers

Do I Need to Use a Sub-Base for My Landscaping Project?

When starting a landscaping project, one of the most important but often overlooked parts is the sub-base. At Mainland Aggregates, we often get asked: "Is a Sub-Base really necessary?" In short, yes, it usually is. A well-prepared sub-base is the key to a stable, long-lasting surface, whether you're laying paving, driveways, gravel paths, patios, or even artificial grass. 


What is a Sub-Base?

The Sub-Base is a layer of crushed stone or aggregates laid underneath the final surface material. Its main job is to provide load-bearing strength, support, and drainage. Without a proper sub-base, surfaces can shift, sink, or crack over time. 


Materials commonly used for sub-bases include:

Type 1 MOT: Crushed granite or limestone, ideal for driveways and heavy-use areas. 
Type 3 Sub-Base: A free-draining version of Type 1, suitable for permeable paving systems. 
Type 1 Recycled: An eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative using crushed concrete. 
You can find all these options at Mainland Aggregates. 


Why Is a Sub-Base Important?

  1. Stability and Strength: A sub-base distributes the weight of traffic (whether foot, cycle, or vehicle) across the ground below. Without it, your finished surface will shift and quickly show signs of wear.
  2. Drainage: A good sub-base helps water drain away, preventing pooling or frost damage. This is especially important for UK gardens and driveways, where heavy rain is common.
  3. Longevity: without a strong foundation, even the best materials will deteriorate faster. Investing in a sub-base saves time, money, and frustration in the long run. 


Do All Landscaping Projects Need a Sub-base?

While most projects benefit from a sub-base, some small, low-impact jobs might manage without one. Here's a quick guide: 


Paving slabs and patios: Always need a compacted sub-base like Type 1 MOT.

Driveways (gravel, block paving, resin bound): Absolutely need a deep sub-base to handle vehicle loads.

Paths and walkways: Lighter paths may use a thinner sub-base, but it’s still recommended.

Artificial grass: Needs a firm, free-draining sub-base to stay flat and drain properly.

Garden borders: Decorative gravel around plants often doesn’t need a full sub-base, but a weed membrane and light preparation help.

 

If you want your landscaping project to stay solid, safe, and smart-looking for years, don't skip the sub-base. It's the foundation that everything relies on. 

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