Which Aggregates Are Most Useful in Concrete?

When you are mixing your own concrete, finding the right aggregate for the job is an important part of getting the right mix. Aggregate is a term that covers any particulate materials such as gravel, sand, slag, crushed stone and recycled concrete.

The type of aggregate to be used in a concrete mix can depend on the type of job you are working on. If you are not familiar with the different types of concrete, you should speak with a professional who can walk you through the ins and outs of concrete making.

Why Are Aggregates Used in Concrete?

Using an aggregate in concrete can add strength as well as thermal and elastic properties. It can also help with controlling shrinkage and prevent cracking. It can also affect the finish on the surface of the concrete and can affect the moisture content of the wet mix of cement. Without aggregates in your concrete, it will be incredibly brittle and won’t have the strength to last or to hold any weight. Finding the right type of aggregate is an important part of creating concrete.

Types of Aggregates for Concrete

There are many different types of concrete aggregates. Crushed stone and gravel are the two most commonly used aggregates for concrete. They add a lot of strength as well as building the volume and creating a great texture for the surface of the concrete.

Sand can also be used as an aggregate and creates a smooth surface but doesn’t hold as much strength. Often sand is used with other aggregates to provide the strength.



 Lightweight aggregates such as glass or vermiculite can also be used. They fall into the mid-sized aggregates and can add both strength and a smooth surface. They are not the best for any concrete that requires holding a lot of weight.

Recycled concrete is also an option to be used for concrete aggregates. This is made by breaking down and crushing old concrete into the preferred size. It is quite eco-friendly but can also absorb a lot more moisture than other options.

Which Aggregates Are Best?

The more closely packed together the particles of the aggregate are, the stronger the concrete will be. Well-graded aggregates are the best option for concrete for maximum strength. You have to be careful not to grade it to the maximum though because this can create a bumpy texture over the surface of your concrete.

You can talk to a professional at your local quarry who can walk you through the different types of aggregates and which one is the best one for your job. They will be able to make suggestions on what type of aggregates are best suited for the project that you are currently working on.

Get your aggregates at Thompson Quarries or let us provide the concrete for you.