Aggregate is sold by weight
Aggregate is sold by the tonne, not by volume. A cubic metre of MOT Type 1 weighs roughly 1.8–2.0 tonnes when compacted. Sharp sand is about 1.6 tonnes per m³, and shingle is about 1.5 tonnes per m³.
To calculate how many tonnes you need, first work out the volume in cubic metres (length × width × depth), then multiply by the material's bulk density.
Worked example — sub-base for a driveway
A driveway 8m × 3m with a 150mm MOT Type 1 sub-base: 8 × 3 × 0.15 = 3.6m³. At roughly 2.0 tonnes per m³ compacted, that's about 7.2 tonnes of MOT Type 1.
Order a little extra — 5–10% — for compaction and uneven ground. So order around 8 tonnes for this project.
Coverage for decorative aggregates
For shingle or decorative stone on the surface, coverage is roughly 1 tonne per 10–12m² at a 40mm depth. So to cover 30m² at 40mm, you'd need about 3 tonnes.
Our tipper fleet delivers aggregates across South Wales in 20-tonne loads. Call us with your measurements and we'll confirm the quantity and delivery.
Related services
Need concrete for your project? We supply volumetric concrete across South Wales, mixed fresh on site to the exact quantity you need. Request a quote or call 01495 820164.