Leading manufacturer and supplier of ready mix concrete, liquid screed and concrete pumps for the South West

Types of Concrete Mix and Their Uses

 

Concrete comes in many different forms, but can broadly be sorted into four categories: standard concrete, designated concrete, designed concrete, and proprietary concrete. There are a number of different grades within these categories.

The ‘best’ concrete to buy depends on the application you plan to use it for. Choosing the correct type is important because it ensures that your new build will be hard-wearing and stand the test of time.

Wright Readymix are one of the UK’s leading concrete specialists. We supply high-quality concrete solutions to the South West of England and South Wales, including ready-mixed concrete, liquid screed, and concrete pumps. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about the different types of concrete, including their various strengths and applications.

Standardised Concrete

 

Standardised Prescribed Concretes (SPCs) are made with a prescribed quantity of materials issued by the British Standards body.

Relatively simple mixes, they are typically used for small scale jobs and mixed on site or obtained from a supplier. They have no strength guarantee or defined quality standards. There are five types:

Also known as wet lean mix concrete, this versatile mix is commonly used for a wide variety of non-structural applications.

Strength: Estimated at 7.5N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Drainage works
  • Backing
  • Haunching
  • Kerb bedding
  • Blinding
  • Cavity filling

A multipurpose mix used for unreinforced building and housing applications. When combined with a liquid screed finish, it is an excellent choice for house foundations and bases.

Strength: Estimated at 10N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for houses and extensions
  • Non-structural mass concrete
  • Unreinforced strip footings
  • Footings for fence posts
  • Small bases for patios
  • Drainage works
  • Blinding

Although ST3 is unsuitable as a wearing surface, it is frequently used for light domestic applications and bases. It can be used for internal floor slabs and house floors with no permanent finish flooring.

Strength: Estimated at 15N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for sheds, garages, greenhouses, and walls
  • Paving for patios
  • Trench filling
  • Blinding house floors

ST4 can be used as a wearing surface for light foot traffic. It is used for a range of domestic, industrial, and agricultural applications.

Strength: Estimated at 20N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Drain bedding
  • Benching to chambers
  • Unreinforced garage floors
  • Workshop and shed bases
  • Internal floor slabs

ST5 can be used in domestic, commercial, and agricultural projects, but only for light foot traffic applications.

Strength: Estimated at 25N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for columns and posts
  • Equipment storage spaces
  • Building ground floor slabs

Designated Concrete

 

Designated concretes are identified by their application, whether agricultural, industrial, or structural. They provide peace of mind that the chosen concrete will perform as needed, letting you skip the long process of specifying a designed concrete.

Providers of designated concrete must hold the appropriate level of product conformity certification, as approved by the BSI Standards Policy and Strategy Committee.

Designated concretes are sorted into General (GEN), Reinforced (RC), Foundation (FND), and Pavement (PAV) categories, each designed for a variety of applications.

General

 

GEN concrete is used for domestic and non-structural applications. It has a relatively low strength and durability level. The requirements specify a minimum quantity of cement to be included, but no water cement ratio.

Unless fully encased or covered,GEN concretes should only ever be used for internal applications.

GEN0 is a wet lean mix concrete often used in both commercial and housing projects.

Strength: Estimated at 7.5N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Domestic foundations
  • Cavity filling
  • Mass filling
  • Kerb bedding
  • Benching
  • Haunching

GEN1 is multifunctional concrete used for general building and housing applications.

Strength: Estimated at 10N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for conservatories, sheds, walls, and steps
  • Trench filling
  • Cavity filling
  • Mass filling
  • Blinding house floors
  • Kerbing
  • Drainage works
  • Haunching

GEN2 is perfect for domestic floors where no permanent finish will be installed, but carpeting or tiling will be.

Strength: Estimated at 15N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Trench fill foundations
  • Foundations for conservatories, sheds, and walls
  • Unreinforced strip footings
  • Unreinforced mass concrete fill
  • Paving for paths
  • Blinding

GEN3 can be used for light duty domestic foundations and applications. It can be used for domestic garage floors and to build unembedded internal floor slabs that will be covered by tiles, carpet, or laminate flooring.

Strength: Estimated at 20N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for houses, garages, and walls
  • Bases for driveways and sheds
  • Unreinforced bases and oversites for conservatories and greenhouses
  • Domestic garage floors (with no embedded metal)
  • Under paving for patios
  • Mass concrete fill
  • Trench fill foundations
  • Blinding

Designated Reinforced Concretes

 

Reinforced concretes are composites pre-stressed or embedded with steel. They are strengthened with added components to prevent cracking or corrosion.

Reinforced concretes have specified requirements for minimum cementitious content .and maximum water-concrete ratios. They are ideal for builds that will be exposed to highly demanding conditions.

RC25 concrete mixes can be used in parts of a building that require steel reinforcement.

Strength: Estimated at 25N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Lightly reinforced house or garage floors
  • Foundations, footings, and basement floors
  • Bases for sheds or outbuildings
  • Infill to insulated concrete formwork located above ground

This mix is suitable for mild exposure conditions, like pavements and driveways.

Strength: Estimated at 30N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Driveways, walkways, paths, stables, and patios
  • Internal areas for light foot and trolley traffic
  • Slabbing
  • Some reinforced foundations

RC28/35 is a strengthened concrete ideal for moderate exposure conditions.

Strength: Estimated at 35N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • External slabbing, column bases, walls, and beams
  • Garages and workshops
  • Livestock and crop storage floors
  • Piling
  • Tank fill

RC32/40 is suitable for moderate to high exposure conditions.

Strength: Estimated at 40N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Agricultural tracks and roads
  • Floors and walls for slurry and manure storage
  • Cavity infill to reinforced masonry
  • Farmyards
  • Factory floors

RC35/45 is appropriate for high demanding exposure conditions.

Strength: Estimated at 45N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Toppings for floors in parlours and dairies
  • Floors and walls for silage or grain stores
  • Stable floors

RC40/50 is the hardiest of reinforced concretes, making it suitable for severe exposure conditions.

Strength: Estimated 50N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • External yards
  • Heavy traffic areas
  • Stable floors
  • Toppings for floors in parlours and dairies
  • Floors and walls for silage or grain stores

Designated Paving Concrete

 

PAV1 and PAV2 concretes include freeze-thaw resistance and are intended for heavy-duty parking and drives. They are not suitable for power float finishes.

PAV1 mixes are frequently used for domestic pavement construction. They contain an additive that creates micro-sized air bubbles in the concrete, helping protect the surface from freeze-thaw cycles.

Strength: Estimated at 35N/mm2 on 28 days

Uses:

  • Domestic pavements, parking, and carports (where no de-icing salts are used)
  • Reinforced and unreinforced bases for workshops and houses
  • Reinforced and unreinforced hard standings
  • Paved areas such as walkways and patios
  • External paving
  • House driveways

PAV2 is a heavy-duty concrete suitable for commercial and industrial use. It is resistant to frost and can be used with de-icing salts.

Strength: Estimated at 40N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Reinforced bases for commercial buildings and agricultural storage
  • Slabbing and paving with heavy vehicle and machinery traffic
  • External yards and roads subject to occasional de-icing salts
  • Heavy-duty outdoor driveways, pavements, and forecourts
  • Industrial external car parks
  • Mass concrete fills

Designated Foundation Concretes

 

As the name suggests, foundation concrete is used in foundations, specifically in those where the ground soil contains sulphates. Sulphates can cause normal concrete to soften, decay, or crack; foundation concrete is designed to withstand this deterioration.

FND2, FND3, and FND4 can be used in all types of un-reinforced foundations. Each is designed for a different soil type.

Strength: Estimated at 30N/mm2 after 28 days

Designed Concretes

 

As directed by European Standards, designed concretes are mixed to achieve a specific strength required for an application. Unlike standardised and designated concretes, they don’t specify the cement to water mix ratios.

Proprietary Concretes

 

Proprietary concretes are custom mixed by the producer for a specific application. They are used where high-performance or specific qualities are required. The producer will provide you with a performance guarantee.

 

Get a Quote From our Concrete Specialists 

 

Wright Readymix have been supplying premium concrete mixes to the South and Wales for over two decades. We can supply your project with ready-mix concrete of all types, as well as heavy-duty concrete pumps and equipment. No matter the size or scope of your project, you can rely on us for quality materials and a top-notch service.

Get a quote online or by calling us on 0117 958 2090. We’re happy to talk through your requirements and offer our recommendations on the best concrete type for your project.

Concrete Mixes FAQs

 

We suggest concrete mixes depending on application requirements and ground conditions. Contact a member of our expert team to discuss the details of your project and we will be able to suggest the best concrete mix to suit your needs.

This will depend totally on the size of your lay site. Use our useful concrete volume calculator to find out how much concrete mix you’ll require for your project.

If you do not have a credit account with us, then our preferred method of payment is by credit or debit card.

Cure time will depend on a number of factors, such as the type of concrete mix being used and external weather conditions, however, you should have at least between 1-2 hours in which to lay the mix. We will be able to advise you more accurately once we have more details, so don’t hesitate to contact us. 

All of our concrete delivery vehicles come with chutes that can deliver ready mix concrete up to approximately 2.4m away from the rear of the vehicle and 1.2m from the side. If your lay site has restricted access that would make delivery by normal means impossible, then one of our concrete pumps for hire would be able to transport the concrete to your lay site with ease.

The minimum width required for our vehicles is 2.7m or 8ft 10 inches. If you believe that entry to your site would be particularly tricky for one of our delivery vehicles, then we would be happy to arrange for one of our team to inspect your site beforehand. You can also request delivery through our mini pump, which is perfect for accessing lay sites that are too hard to navigate for larger vehicles.

If you wish to move the concrete mix yourself i.e. with a wheelbarrow or dump truck, then you should request your ready mix concrete at a lower slump. This will mean that it is drier and therefore easier to transport manually. Please let us know in advance if you wish for our concrete mixers to offload directly into your wheelbarrow, so that we can schedule appropriately.

Our delivery trucks remain on site for an allotted time of 30 minutes. If you require the delivery truck for longer than this time, then this may incur you a waiting time charge.

Yes – without tamping, vibrating, or compacting, air pockets would remain trapped inside the wet concrete mix. These air pockets could seriously weaken the overall structure of the concrete, making it weaker and less durable than it would be if the concrete was made denser. When reinforcing metal is used, this method also ensures that the concrete best bonds to the metal.

Concrete mixes can be harmful if not handled correctly. That is why we always suggest wearing the appropriate safety gear and following these guidelines when handling our ready mix concrete or liquid screed:

  • Fresh concrete or screed can cause burns to the skin and eyes, so wear protective clothing (impervious boots, goggles, gloves, long sleeves and trousers)
  • If concrete makes contact with your skin or eye, then wash it off thoroughly or rinse from your eye immediately.
  • Do not swallow. If any concrete mix is ingested, seek immediate medical advice.
  • Once finished, remove your clothing and wash it thoroughly before reuse.

     

We have a large fleet of delivery vehicles in a range of sizes and capacities (length + width + height = capacity):
6.5m + 2.5m + 4m = 4m3
7.5m + 2.5m + 4m = 6m3
8.7m + 2.5m + 4m = 7.5m3

We are the right people for you – let’s work together!
Contact us on 0117 958 2090 today to get a quote or to find out more.

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How Does Concrete Harden? The Hardening Process Explained
17th July 2025

Concrete is more than just a mix of water, cement, and aggregates. It’s a material that undergoes a remarkable transformation through a chemical process known as hydration. When water and cement come together, they trigger a chain of reactions. These reactions slowly transform the liquid mix into a solid structure. Knowing how concrete hardens helps ensure your build is strong and durable, whether it’s a DIY project or a large commercial development.

At Wright Readymix, we provide high-quality concrete that meets the strictest industry standards. In this guide, we explain the science behind concrete hardening and highlight the key factors that influence the process.

When you grasp these principles, you can improve your concrete mix for better strength and durability.

What Happens During the Concrete Hardening Process?

Concrete hardens through a chemical reaction called hydration. This process occurs when water mixes with cement particles. It triggers a chemical reaction that solidifies the concrete. This transformation occurs due to hydrated compounds, such as calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H). These bind the cement and aggregates together, forming a cohesive, strong structure.

The hydration process begins when water comes into contact with the cement. This causes an exothermic reaction, which releases heat. This heat causes the concrete to harden more quickly, especially in the early stages. That’s why freshly poured concrete often feels warm to the touch.

Cement Hydration

When water is mixed with cement, it reacts with minerals in the cement to form calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H). This compound is the key to concrete’s strength and durability, providing the binding agent that holds the mixture together.

As mentioned above, the hydration process also releases heat. This exothermic reaction speeds up the hardening process during the initial stages. If not handled properly, this can result in cracks or defects in the final structure, especially when temperatures rise.

The UK Concrete Society states that hydration is key to concrete’s strength and durability over time. Otherwise:

“Problems that can be caused by the addition of excess water include, settlement cracks, weak surface (poor abrasion resistance), dusting, poor freeze-thaw resistance, low structural strength etc.”

Good management during the curing phase helps the process run smoothly and avoids delays or problems.

Water-Cement Ratio

The water-cement ratio is one of the most critical factors in determining the hardening of concrete. It controls the water added to the cement mix. This ultimately affects the hydration process and the strength of the concrete.

Getting this ratio right is crucial:

  • Too much water will weaken the mix, resulting in less durable concrete.
  • Too little water will cause incomplete hydration, leaving the concrete too dry to form strong bonds.

At Wright Readymix, we calculate the best water-cement ratio for every project. This ensures proper hydration, resulting in a stronger, longer-lasting product. Whether you’re working on a small-scale project or a large commercial development, we tailor each mix to meet your specific needs.

For more details on the types of concrete we offer, visit our types of concrete mix and their uses page.

The Role of Temperature in Hardening

Temperature plays a key role in how quickly or slowly concrete hardens. The surrounding temperature influences the rate at which hydration occurs. In hot conditions, the reaction occurs more rapidly, which can lead to cracks or uneven curing if not correctly managed. On the other hand, colder temperatures can slow down hydration, delaying the hardening process.

The unpredictable UK weather can make managing temperature during the curing phase challenging. Wright Readymix knows how to deliver concrete in all kinds of weather, ensuring the curing process is continually optimised. Whether you’re pouring concrete in the height of summer or during a cold winter, we have solutions to keep your concrete curing correctly.

Why Curing is Essential for Concrete Hardening

Yes, hydration is key to concrete hardening, but curing is just as important. It helps concrete achieve its full strength. Without proper curing, the chemical reactions that bond the cement particles may not finish. This can result in concrete that is weaker and more brittle. Simply put, curing allows the concrete to continue hydrating. This helps develop the internal structure that gives it its strength.

Curing Duration

Concrete begins to set within 24–48 hours after being poured, but it requires a 28-day curing period to reach its full strength potential. During this time, hydration continues, and the concrete continues to solidify further. Waiting 28 days may feel long, but this curing time is vital. It helps your concrete handle wear, pressure, and environmental factors in the long run.

At Wright Readymix, we help you with the curing process. This way, your concrete sets completely before you build on it or add heavy loads. Whether you’re handling a large construction project or a DIY job, we can enhance your curing methods. We’re here to help ensure you achieve the best results.

Moisture & Temperature Management

Concrete needs to retain moisture during the curing process to continue the hydration reaction. Without adequate moisture, the concrete may dry out too quickly, leaving cracks or weak spots. This is why methods like water curing, plastic sheeting, and curing compounds are commonly used to prevent moisture loss.

Our team offer guidance on the most effective curing techniques tailored to your specific site conditions. We provide water curing for hot weather and curing compounds for windy conditions. This way, your concrete receives the best care for lasting durability.

Master the Concrete Hardening Process for Lasting Results

Concrete hardening goes beyond just pouring and waiting. It’s a detailed process that involves hydration, curing, and managing environmental factors. When you understand how concrete hardens, you can make your project stronger and more durable. This includes understanding the water-cement ratio and how weather conditions affect the process.

At Wright Readymix, we apply our expertise to every project. We offer concrete solutions that achieve excellent results. We provide ready-mix concrete, liquid screed, and concrete pumps. Whatever you need, our tailored solutions keep your project running smoothly from start to finish. Ready to make your concrete stronger and more durable?

Call 0117 958 2090 or contact us today for a free quote, expert advice, and a reliable solution for your concrete needs.

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What Was Used Before Concrete? A Brief History of Concrete
09th July 2025

Before ready-mix trucks and calibrated batching plants, early builders had to get creative. They used whatever materials were on hand, like lime, volcanic ash, and even sticky rice. It might sound rough and ready, but it worked. Structures like Roman roads, Egyptian pyramids and ancient aqueducts still stand as proof of their staying power.

So, what was used before concrete? The history of concrete is packed with experimentation, problem-solving, and centuries of refinement. This blog explores the journey from lime mortars in Mesopotamia to Portland cement in 19th-century Britain. It also shows how these early materials still influence the mixes we use on job sites today.

Early Building Materials Before Concrete

Long before anyone had access to a concrete calculator or same-day delivery, ancient builders made do with what they could find. This was often local stone, mud, and variations of lime. They built lasting, load-bearing structures without the tools we have today. Some of these structures still stand in various places, including the UK.

Stone & Mud

Stone was the go-to for durability, while mud brick (adobe) offered an accessible, low-cost solution. Earth-based construction continued to be common in the UK countryside well into the 1800s. This was particularly the case in Devon and Cumbria. According to Historic England, these traditional methods can still be seen in listed rural buildings today.

Lime Mortar

The ancient Egyptians were among the first to bind blocks with a lime-based mortar, which was a simple mix of lime, sand, and water. Though it wasn’t as strong as modern concrete, it performed well in dry climates. It was essential for building structures like the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Hydraulic Lime

Let’s head to regions like southern Syria and Jordan. Here, the Nabataeans discovered that lime mixed with volcanic ash could set underwater. This early hydraulic lime was compacted through a method called tamping. Findings from scientists as reported by the BBC support this idea.

Use our concrete volume calculator to get the perfect mix for your project, with no tamping required.

Roman's Were the Early Concrete Innovations

When it comes to concrete, the Romans engineered something revolutionary. Around 200 BC, Roman builders started mixing volcanic ash, called pozzolana, with lime and seawater. This created opus caementicium, the first Roman concrete.

This early mix changed construction forever. It could be set underwater, resist erosion, and become stronger over time. Many Roman structures are still standing today, from bridges and bathhouses to ports and aqueducts.

Why Was Roman Concrete So Advanced?

  • Waterproof & Durable: Roman concrete could be set underwater. This made it perfect for aqueducts, bathhouses, and ports. A 2017 University of Utah study found that its seawater reaction created crystals (C-A-S-H) that strengthened the mix over time.
  • Built to Last: The Pantheon, still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, is nearly 2,000 years old. The Colosseum and other Roman structures also remain standing, a testament to the durability of their formula.
  • Self-Healing Chemistry: Roman concrete chemically bonded over time. According to the Guardian, this made it far more resilient as it aged.

Although the recipe was lost after the fall of Rome, today’s concrete is still built on the same values: strength, reliability, and longevity. Our bespoke ready mix concrete is engineered for lasting performance.

Concrete Falls into Obscurity

After the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 AD, much of their advanced building knowledge – including concrete – faded into obscurity. For centuries, European builders returned to simpler materials like timber, stone, and lime mortars.

These mixes kept masonry strong in cathedrals and castles. However, without volcanic ash, they didn’t match the durability of Roman blends. Medieval construction relied more on craftsmanship than chemistry.

It was only in the Renaissance, when interest in ancient texts grew, that builders began to experiment again. By combining lime and aggregate in new ways, they laid the groundwork for the revival of concrete as a construction staple.

Concrete’s Modern Comeback

In 1824, everything changed when British bricklayer Joseph Aspdin patented Portland cement. This material looked and felt like Portland stone, both in appearance and strength. It was the first mix to offer reliable strength and a predictable setting time, making it ideal for industrial-scale building.

This innovation heralded a new era of construction:

  • Consistent Quality: Controlled production meant batches were reliable and repeatable.
  • Fast Setting: Perfect for the pace of 19th-century urban expansion.
  • Compatible with Steel: Opened the door to reinforced concrete, first developed in the 1850s by Joseph Monier.

Reinforced concrete transformed design possibilities, making stronger, taller structures achievable. It soon became the foundation of infrastructure throughout Britain. This includes everything from post-war housing estates to major bridges and tunnels.

That tradition continues today. We offer ready mix concrete, expert batching, and concrete pumping. This means you can achieve high-performance pours quickly and reliably.

Concrete in the 21st Century

Today’s concrete is smarter, cleaner, and more adaptable than ever. Whether you’re laying a patio or constructing a multi-storey development, there’s a tailored mix to suit.

New in batching, additives, and sustainability have pushed it forward:

  • Lower Carbon: Using Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS) or recycled aggregates helps cut emissions a lot. The UK Green Building Council states these alternatives can reduce carbon impact by up to 40%.
  • Self-Healing: Some new concretes have bacteria or crystals that seal small cracks on their own. This cuts down maintenance for big infrastructure projects.
  • Faster Delivery: With off-site batching and precast systems, concrete arrives ready to install. Our concrete blocks are manufactured to size and strength for efficient on-site placement.

At Wright Readymix, we provide custom ready-mix concrete in the South West and South Wales. We have more than 45 vehicles and concrete plants close to major routes. Whether you need a mini pump for tight access or the UK’s largest concrete pump, we keep your project on track.

Built in the Past, Delivered for Today

Concrete’s history shows progress, resilience, and reinvention. It starts with the clever designs of Roman engineers and includes the creation of Portland cement. What began as a mix of lime, ash, and instinct is now a high-performance building material backed by science and driven by precision.

At Wright Readymix, we carry that legacy forward. No matter if you’re pouring for a home extension or managing a large project, we offer custom solutions. We have decades of experience, dependable delivery, and expert advice. Need concrete that’s made for the modern site?

Call 0117 958 2090 or get in touch, and let’s build something built to last.

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Sustainable Landscaping with Bulk Bag Aggregates
12th June 2025

Want a garden that looks great all year, doesn’t rinse your water bill, and doesn’t need mowing every Sunday? That’s the beauty of sustainable landscaping with aggregates. It’s also why more homeowners and landscapers are ditching the lawn in favour of something smarter.

Using gravel, slate, or limestone gives you an outdoor space that stays tidy with minimal effort. These materials help the soil retain moisture, cut down on weeding, and let rainwater drain properly. Best of all, it does it without turning your patio into a puddle. They’re not just practical, either.

When they’re delivered in a clean, waterproof bulk bag from Wright Readymix, you’re saving on mess, packaging, and multiple trips to the builders’ yard. In this guide, we’ll show you how to use bulk bag aggregates to create beautiful, low-maintenance spaces that save water and last longer.

So you can work with the environment, not against it.

The Water-Wise Benefits of Gravel, Slate & Limestone

Let’s be honest: lawns are needy. Constant trimming, endless watering, and always patchy when you’ve got guests coming round. Swap that for gravel or slate, and suddenly, your weekend opens right up.

Gravel’s great for covering beds, building paths, or filling in those awkward corners where nothing grows. It holds onto moisture underneath and doesn’t evaporate it like exposed soil. That means your plants stay happy even if you forget to water for a day, or three (okay, maybe four). For more information, check out A Complete Decorative Gravel Guide for Landscaping Projects.

Otherwise, slate chippings are not just for show. They act like a tidy mulch, cutting down on weeds and keeping the soil cool. Plus, they don’t blow away every time someone sneezes.

Even limestone has its perks. It reflects heat, drains like a champ, and looks good whether you’re going rustic or modern. According to the RHS, mulching with decorative stone is one of the top ways to retain water and reduce stress on plants during dry spells.

How Permeable Aggregates Support Sustainable Drainage

If you’ve ever had a garden that turns into a paddling pool every time it rains, you’ll know the value of decent drainage. That’s where aggregates really shine. Gravel, slate, and limestone all let water through naturally, which helps it soak into the ground instead of sitting on the surface.

That’s not just good for your lawn; it’s also what the government calls SuDS: Sustainable Drainage Systems. Basically, it means designing gardens and outdoor areas to withstand heavy rain without causing runoff or flooding. Using permeable aggregates is one of the easiest ways to tick that box.

When creating a new patio or path, select materials that allow water to drain effectively. This choice keeps you within planning rules and saves you from future issues. GOV.UK has a whole section on it if you’re into the legal side, but the short version is: aggregates = good drainage = less trouble.

And from a builder’s point of view? They’re quicker to lay, easier to repair, and won’t crack like concrete when the frost comes in.

Why Bulk Bag Aggregates Are the Sustainable Choice

We’ll level with you: bulk bag delivery isn’t just about looking the part on-site. It’s cleaner, quicker, and kinder to the planet too.

One big bag means fewer delivery trips, less packaging, and a lot less shovelling things from one pile to another. Our waterproof bags keep your gravel or slate dry until you need it, and when we say we deliver it straight to where it’s going, we mean it. You point, we drop.

And let’s not forget: using what you need, when you need it, with zero waste left over is about as eco-friendly as it gets. Whether you’re topping up a driveway or landscaping an entire site, bulk bags are a no-brainer.

Want to see what’s available? Explore our comprehensive range of bulk bag aggregates.

Wright Readymix’s Decorative Aggregates for Sustainable Gardens

Whether you’re building a no-nonsense gravel path or giving the front of your property a facelift, we’ve got something to suit. Wright Readymix stocks over 17 types of bulk bag aggregates, including:

  • Golden gravel for that classic driveway finish
  • Plum slate if you fancy something more contemporary
  • Limestone chippings for patios that stay cool and clean
  • And even grano dust and MOT Type 1 for those proper heavy-duty jobs

Our materials aren’t just practical; they’re proper lookers, too. And they’re perfect if you’re building a garden that’s both easy to manage and environmentally friendly. Whether you’re a tradesperson on-site or a homeowner doing it yourself, we’ll ensure you get the right aggregate for the job.

We provide delivery across Bristol, Avonmouth, Weston-super-Mare, and the South West. So, your ideal gravel, slate, or stone is just – well – a stone’s throw away.

Get Greener Gardens with Less Graft

Because landscaping shouldn’t feel like a full-time job, and going sustainable doesn’t mean making things harder. With bulk bag aggregates, you get materials that are built to last, easy to lay, and even easier to live with. Less watering, less weeding, and no more trying to coax grass into growing where it clearly doesn’t want to.

Whether you’re revamping a tired garden, building out a new patio, or sorting drainage for a bigger project, one thing (or three) is true. If you use gravel, slate, or limestone, you’ll spend less time maintaining – and more time enjoying – your outdoor space. And with Wright Readymix, we make it even simpler. We’ll help you choose the right aggregate, bag it up, deliver it where you want it, and unload it too. No faff. No delays.

Call 0117 958 2090 or get a free quote online to get started on your low-maintenance garden.

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How to Compact Gravel for a Solid Base in 5 Easy Steps
05th June 2025

Picture this: you’ve just added the final touches to your gorgeous gravel driveway, patio, or path. Everything looks great, but a few months later, the gravel starts to shift or sink. Annoying, right? A stable gravel surface should stand the test of time, and it can, with the proper compaction techniques. Properly compacting gravel is an integral step in helping prevent problems and keeping the surface lasting for years.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to compact gravel for a solid base in 5 easy steps. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a pro, you’ll find clear, practical advice to get your gravel compacted right from the start. Keep your eyes peeled, and let’s get your project sorted the Wright Way!

Step 1. Prepare the Site

Proper site preparation is the first and most crucial step in creating a solid gravel base. To start, clear the area of grass, weeds, and debris; this ensures a clean surface for your gravel to sit on. If you’re working on a larger area, you may need to dig out 100–150mm of soil to make space for the sub-base and gravel layers.

Pro Tip: Think of this like clearing a blank canvas. Use a measuring tape or spray paint to mark the area, ensuring it’s large enough to accommodate vehicles (for driveways) or foot traffic (for patios).

Once the space is clear, check for any obstacles, such as tree roots or rocks, that may be present. These might affect the compaction process. Getting this step right saves you from uneven compaction and shifting gravel later on. After all, a little prep now goes a long way!

Step 2. Lay the Sub-Base Material

The sub-base is the foundation of your gravel surface. For the best results, we recommend using MOT Type 1, a high-quality, compactable aggregate. This material creates a strong support, keeping your gravel in place, even when vehicles or people walk on it.

Spread the MOT Type 1 in 50–75mm layers, compacting each layer thoroughly with a wacker plate or garden roller. It’s vital to compact in layers because compacting too much at once will only settle the top layer, leaving the rest loose and unstable.

Once the first layer is compacted, check for any uneven areas and smooth them out to ensure a uniform surface. The sub-base should be level, with a slight camber or slope away from your home or structure to provide water runoff. This keeps your gravel base stable and prevents future erosion.

Step 3. Choose the Right Gravel for Compaction

The right gravel is crucial for creating a stable and long-lasting surface. For driveways and patios, angular gravel is the best choice. Gravel sizes from 14mm to 20mm are perfect for compaction. They fit together nicely, forming a stable base that won’t move under pressure.

Avoid using pea gravel or rounded stones, as they don’t compact effectively and can shift easily underfoot or when driven over. Instead, opt for materials such as limestone, granite, or basalt. These angular stones are tough and interlock to form a solid base.

Tip: If you’re unsure about which gravel to choose, don’t hesitate to contact the team here at Wright Readymix. We offer expert advice on the best materials for your project, ensuring you select the right gravel for the job.

Step 4. Compact the Gravel

Proper compaction is the most important step in creating a stable gravel base. If you don’t compact the gravel properly, the surface will shift, sink, and eventually fail. The key is to use a wacker plate (or plate compactor) to settle the gravel evenly into place. We touch on this in our blog, How to Use Bulk Bag Gravel for Driveways to Help Curb Appeal, but here’s the simplified take.

How to properly compact:

  1. Start at one edge and work your way across the surface, moving in straight lines.
  2. Make overlapping passes (around 30%) to ensure even compaction across the area.
  3. Move slowly and steadily. The compactor needs time to vibrate and settle the gravel. Rushing can lead to uneven compaction.

If you’re working on a sloped area, consider using gravel grids to stabilise the surface. These grids lock the gravel in place, preventing it from shifting down the slope, especially in areas with steep gradients.

Pro Tip: Make sure to cover the entire surface. Focus on the edges and corners, as they are more likely to shift if not compacted properly.

Step 5. Check for Soft Spots and Re-Compact

Once the gravel is compacted, it’s time to check for soft spots. Walk the surface and check for any uneven or springy areas. These are typically places that don’t settle properly and need a little more attention.

Re-compaction tips:

  • Focus on edges and corners, as these areas often shift or sink first.
  • Re-run the wacker plate over soft spots to compact them further.
  • If needed, add a bit more gravel to any low areas and re-compact for an even, stable finish.
  • Once you’ve completed this, your gravel surface should be level, stable, and ready to withstand the elements for years to come.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Compacting Gravel

To ensure your gravel base lasts, avoid these common pitfalls:

  • Don’t Compact Too Much at Once: Work in layers (50–75mm) and compact each layer fully. Trying to compact too much at once leads to uneven settling.
  • Don’t Skip the Edges: The edges and corners of your driveway or patio are crucial. If they aren’t compacted well, gravel will spill out or shift over time.
  • Don’t Rush the Process: It’s tempting to move quickly, but slow, steady compaction is the key to achieving a solid, lasting base.
  • Avoid Compacting Wet Gravel: When it’s wet, gravel can smear under the plate compactor. This stops adequate compaction. Slightly damp gravel is ideal.
  • Forget to Check for Soft Spots: After compacting, always walk the area and check for soft or springy spots. These need to be re-compacted to prevent future settling and uneven surfaces.

Get a Strong Gravel Base That Lasts

Creating a solid gravel base is essential for a long-lasting and durable surface. Follow these five easy steps to keep your gravel driveway, patio, or pathway stable for years to come. To recap, start with proper site preparation. Then, lay the sub-base, select the appropriate gravel, and employ effective compaction techniques.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your gravel project, contact Wright Readymix for expert advice and a free quote. We supply high-quality aggregates, such as MOT Type 1 and decorative gravel. These are ideal for compacting and forming a durable base. Whether you’re a DIYer or a pro, we’ve got everything you need to get the job done wright.

Call us today at 0117 958 2090 or get a free quote online.

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