Crushed Gravel – Making the Right Choice for Your Project

When it comes to landscaping or construction, crushed gravel is one of the most versatile and widely used materials available. From driveways and drainage systems to decorative borders and groundwork, choosing the right type of crushed gravel is essential to the success of your project. This guide will help you understand the different options available, how to choose between them, and why sourcing from a trusted local supplier like Longwater Gravel makes all the difference.

What Is Crushed Gravel?

Crushed gravel is produced by mechanically breaking down rocks into smaller, angular pieces. The result is a coarse, textured material that compacts well and provides excellent support for a range of applications. It differs from rounded gravel or shingle in that it interlocks better, making it ideal for driveways and sub-base layers.

At Longwater Gravel, we produce a range of crushed gravel options directly from our Norfolk quarries and recycling centres, ensuring quality, consistency, and availability throughout the year.

Types of Crushed Gravel Offered by Longwater

Choosing the right type of crushed gravel starts with understanding the key differences between products. Here are some of our most popular options:

10mm Crushed Shingle
A smaller gravel ideal for:

• Pipe bedding
  
• Drainage systems
  
• Decorative ground cover
  
• Garden paths or borders
  

Its size and appearance make it a popular choice for smaller landscaping features where both form and function matter.

20mm Crushed Shingle
This larger option is often used for:

• Driveways and access tracks
  
• Base layers under paving
  
• Heavier-duty drainage needs
  

Thanks to its size, it provides excellent drainage while also being sturdy enough to handle light vehicular traffic.

Crushed Concrete (Recycled Aggregate)
An eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to virgin aggregate. Ideal for:

• Sub-base layers
  
• Foundations for sheds, patios or hardstanding
  
• General groundworks
  

Using recycled concrete not only saves money but also supports sustainable construction practices.

Crushed Asphalt
Often used in:

• Temporary roads or pathways
  
• Agricultural tracks
  
• Car parks and site access routes
  

It offers excellent compaction and is a great choice for areas with high foot or vehicle traffic where durability is key.

Crushed Brick
A recycled alternative often used in:

• Fill and general hardcore
  
• Decorative garden features
  
• Pathways and landscape borders
  

Crushed brick provides a striking, reddish tone and is made from reclaimed demolition materials, making it both sustainable and visually distinctive. It’s an excellent choice for projects looking to blend practicality with aesthetic appeal.

How to Choose the Right Crushed Gravel

Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting the right material:

• Purpose: Are you laying a driveway, building a base, or creating a decorative feature?
  
• Drainage Needs: Larger, more open aggregates like 20mm shingle work better in drainage applications.
  
• Load Bearing: Crushed concrete or asphalt is best for heavier loads.
  
• Aesthetics: Consider the colour and texture of your chosen gravel, especially for visible areas like garden paths or borders. Crushed brick, for example, adds a warm, rustic look.
  

If in doubt, our team is always on hand to offer tailored advice.

Bulk Bags vs Loose Loads

All our crushed gravel products are available in:

• Bulk Bags (approx. 800kg): Great for DIY projects or tight access sites.
  
• Loose Loads: Best value for larger jobs and commercial projects.
  

We can deliver across Norfolk, usually within 24 hours, or you can collect directly from our Costessey site.

Why Choose Longwater Gravel?

With over 70 years of supplying high-quality aggregates in Norfolk, we understand what local builders, landscapers, and homeowners need:

• Locally produced aggregates mean better quality control and lower delivery costs.
  
• Fast and flexible delivery with a range of load sizes.
  
• Reliable advice from a knowledgeable, friendly team.
  
• Eco-conscious options like crushed concrete and crushed brick.
  

Whether you’re creating a new driveway or building a new garden feature, we’ve got the right crushed gravel for the job.

Ready to Order?

Browse our full range of aggregates online or call 01603 743767 to speak with our team. We’re here to help you choose the best material and get it delivered quickly so your project can keep moving forward.