Crushed Stone and What It’s Used For
Landscapers, hardscape contractors, and builders all need crushed stone at one time or another. The most popular uses for crushed stone are road construction, road maintenance, cement making, construction projects, and railroad track beds. Though it is also commonly used for many, do it yourself projects and drainage systems.
The Difference Between Crushed Stone and Gravel
Crushed stone consists of large rocks that got crushed by human-made machines. The small, crushed stones that come out of these machines are angular in shape, meaning that the stones’ surface allows for the edges to interlock, forming a stable surface.
Interlocking can be created using rollers, or by being tamped down, or by uses certain vibrations. Gravel, unlike crushed stones, is naturally formed. It’s made from large rocks that erode, causing small rocks to break off. Gravel is much smoother and rounder than crushed stone.
Types of Rock Used to Make Aggregate
Crushed stone is commonly known as aggregate. And the most popular types of aggregate are made from dolomite, limestone, trap rock, and granite rocks. Lesser amounts of volcanic cinders, sandstone, marble, slate, and quartzite rocks are also widely available aggregate types. Even concrete is recycled and made into aggregate.
Types and Sizes of Baltimore’s Crushed Concrete and Stones
- #1 – This is the biggest size of crushed stone. The diameter of this type of stone falls between 2 and 4 inches. The size is most appropriate for filling large holes and projects where big stones are needed.
- #3 – Stone with diameters falling between 2 and 1/2 of an inch. This stone size is mainly used for drainage and railroad projects.
- #5 – This size of crushed stone has a diameter of 1 inch and smaller. Perfect for making paver base and gravel roads.
- #8 – This stone falls between 1/2 and 3/8 of an inch. This size is most commonly used for making concrete.
- #10 – Otherwise known as dust or screenings. This size of crushed stone is commonly used for creating concrete blocks and making pavers. Screenings are also used in horse riding arenas and for walking/biking paths.
- #57 – Stone roughly 3/4 of an inch in size. They are generally used for landscaping, drainage, and concrete mixes.
- #67 – Crushed stones with a diameter of 3/4 of an inch and smaller. Perfect material for slab base, road base, and filler.
Find out how ReAgg, a Baltimore crushed stone supplier company can supply your crushed stone and hauling needs. Check out their website here or call 301-669-6700.
