As a homeowner, the terms “aggregate” and “infrastructure” might not seem like words you would think about in reference to your home. However, it turns out there is a lot to know about these things. For example, without aggregates, the modern conveniences such as roads, airports, sewage systems, and even your home would not exist! These infrastructures of society have aggregates to thank for their stability and longevity. 

What are Aggregates? 

They make up eighty percent of concrete. They are made up of loose materials such as sand, gravel, and crushed rocks as well as stones.

Types of Aggregates

There are a few different types of aggregates to choose from, including:

• Granite. Made of granite, of course, this type of aggregate is used in high-grade concrete. It comes in several colors such as white, pink, and gray. 
• Gravel. Gravel aggregates come in two types: scrabbled and rounded. Scrabbled gravel is simply crushed and left in its natural state after that. Rounded gravel is made of very small, smoothed stones usually originating from rivers and/or ponds. Gravel is most commonly used as a ballast aggregate for foundations.
• Limestone. As an aggregate, limestone is found in road construction as well as reinforced concrete. 
• Sand. The most common aggregate, sand and water give strength and solidification to concrete. It also acts as a very effective binder for asphalt.
• Secondary. Secondary aggregates are made of crushed construction waste. It is used as a cheap filler for road maintenance. 

How are aggregates used in your home?

An average sized house today requires four hundred tons of aggregate to be built properly. They can be found in bricks, any concrete, roofing tiles, the glass in your windows, wall boards, and even the paint on your walls. Perhaps the most important place aggregates have in your home is in the foundation of it. They are used to provide extra strength and support to building foundations. They prevent uneven settling from occurring and compromising the structure. If a building settles unevenly, the entire base is compromised and is at risk of collapse. They also make their products weather resistant and long lasting.  This is only a small part of what makes aggregates indispensable to well-built housing. 

Aggregates in Home Renovations

It is very important to carefully plan home renovations. Especially when they involve existing, or adding aggregates. For example, many homeowners like to spruce up their driveways at one point or another. This is a prime area for aggregates as well, since one of their other primary uses is in road construction. This includes asphalt, sidewalks, and you guessed it—driveways. Choosing the right company to provide your aggregates is crucial to a well constructed driveway.  This is true for all home renovations involving them. So be sure to do your research on local providers and contractors. This will ensure you are getting the best product for the place you and your family live and grow together. 

Your home is one of the most important places in your life. So always make sure to use quality aggregate products and keep your home, and the memories it carries, standing the test of time.