Shingle and gravel are words often used synonymously. 

However, there are some key dissimilarities you need to know between these two aggregates. Each type has different shapes, formation circumstances and applications, meaning there’s more to differentiate shingle and gravel than might you think. 

So let’s explore. 

What is gravel? 

Gravel refers to fragments of rock that have either been formed naturally by erosion, or by man-made means such as crushing stones sourced from quarries. The latter has a typically more rough appearance than the former. 

What is gravel used for? 

Because of its robust nature, gravel is typically used for practical applications in landscaping and construction endeavours, such as for ballast, laying roads, building driveways and pathways, or as an ingredient in concrete. 

Depending on the appearance of the gravel, it can also be used for decorative purposes such as in borders. Additionally, it has superb drainage properties. 

What is shingle? 

Shingle generally refers to rounded fragments of stone that are thinner at one end than the other, and may be more aesthetically pleasing to the eye than gravel. 

What is shingle used for? 

Due to its more attractive appearance than gravel, shingle is typically used for decorative applications such as driveways, paths, borders and bedding. It can also be used for more practical purposes such as plant insulation, prevention of soil erosion, and drainage. 

What are the differences between shingle and gravel? 

Shingle and gravel are both aggregates typically used for construction and landscaping projects. 

There are three key differences between shingle and gravel that you should know: 

• Size: Generally, gravel pieces are larger than shingle pieces. 

• Shape: Shingle also tends to be more rounded in appearance than gravel, while gravel tends to be more angular. 

• Application: Shingle is often more attractive than gravel, and so is more commonly used in decorative applications, while gravel tends to be used in practical applications that require durability. However, each can be used for both practical and decorative purposes. 

You may have also heard the terms pea gravel and pea shingle be used. Is there any difference between these two? 

What is the difference between pea gravel and pea shingle? 

Unlike gravel and shingle which are different, pea gravel and pea shingle refer to the same thing. 

Pea shingle or gravel is simply smaller, more rounded gravel or shingle, usually naturally formed as a result of weathering near water bodies. It often has the appearance of the gravel or shingle you would see on a beach, coming in a variety of beautiful natural colours. Pea shingle is used in drainage and decorative applications. 

Searching for high-quality aggregates in Kent and beyond? Look no further than Chargrace Soils. With prompt delivery and a huge range of landscaping materials available in any volume, we make it easy for your project to get started. If you’re unsure of what you need or how much, just get in touch with our team.  

While seeming fairly dull on the face of it, aggregates are actually a vital component of all major construction materials. In fact, without aggregates, the built environment simply would not exist. 

In this article, we’ll take you through some aggregate basics, including what they are, how they can be used and what the main types are. 

What are aggregates? 

Aggregates are the most basic material used in construction. They refer to any raw rock material that is granular and inert. They come in a range of sizes and are usually produced from natural sources. When they are mixed or bound with other substances, for example water or cement, they form materials that can be used in building applications. 

What are aggregates used for? 

Thanks to their use as a key component in concrete, mortar and asphalt, aggregates are used in major construction projects throughout the world, giving building materials their bulk, strength and thermal properties. On their own, they can also be used for decorative purposes on driveways and flowerbeds, or for filling voids. 

What are the main types of aggregates? 

There are multiple types of aggregates available on the market, each with their own unique properties and applications. Some key types of aggregates include: 

Sand

A fine and naturally-formed aggregate that can be used in the creation of concrete. There are a range of different sands available, such as drainage sand to support water movement, builders sand for strong and practical purposes, and sharp sand for laying block paving and patios. 

Shingle

Also known as gravel, shingle consists of small stones that are either formed by natural weathering processes or removed from rock quarries and crushed down to a usable size. The uses of shingle are wide-reaching and can include drainage, landscaping and building. 

Crushed rock

As you would expect, crushed rock is simply extracted rocks which are crushed down to intended size and texture. They are usually produced in quarries, and are used in a wide variety of applications such as surfacing and foundations. 

Recycled materials

Aggregates that come from recycled sources and that are sourced sustainably and responsibly, allowing you to boost the green credentials of your project. They are usually hard-wearing, load-bearing and affordable, making them a great all-round aggregate that doesn’t cost the earth. 

Ballast

A unique blend of sand and rock, ballast is a multi-purpose and stable aggregate used in footings, foundations, paths, hardcores, concrete and sub-bases. 

Now we’ve explored the main types of aggregates available to you, let’s find out how you can get hold of them for your project. 

Where can you get aggregates?

It’s important to choose an aggregate supplier who can provide the full range of options, as well as friendly advice on which aggregate may be suitable for the project. 

Here at Chargrace Soils, we provide aggregates of all types, including responsibly-sourced recycled options in all quantities – and all delivered directly to your door. As a family-owned and operated company, we always put our customers and the planet as our top priorities, and you can trust in our services time and time again. 

Get in touch with Chargrace Soils today for dependable aggregate supply across the UK, including our local areas of Sevenoaks, Bromley and Kent.