Enter the length, thickness and width in either millimetres or metres. The M3 amount will be displayed in cubic metres under the result.
Whatever your project, you will need to calculate how many cubic meters you need to get the job done. The Aggregate calculator can help you work out how much to order. Use the Aggregate calculator below to work out the volume of the area to be filled. Our prices are based on a per cubic metre and tonne rate.
Once you have established the cubic metres required, look at our price list if you are unsure phone us 09 813 0295
Guide to Aggregate Thickness
Choosing the right thickness of aggregate is crucial for the durability and performance of various construction applications. This guide provides recommended thickness ranges for different types of aggregate based on their intended use. Whether you’re planning pathways, driveways, roads, or drainage solutions, refer to this guide to ensure your aggregate meets the necessary specifications for optimal performance and longevity. From base courses to concrete applications, find the right thickness to suit your project’s requirements and ensure a solid foundation for your construction needs.
For a comprehensive understanding of how to optimise pavement performance using recycled materials, see optimising pavement structure with recycled materials.
Recommended Thickness Ranges
- Pathways:
- For pedestrian pathways, a compacted layer thickness of 50-75mm is generally sufficient.
- Driveways:
- For residential driveways, a compacted layer thickness of 75-100mm is recommended.
- Roads:
- For light-traffic roads, aim for a compacted layer thickness of 100-150mm.
- For heavy-traffic roads, a thickness of 150-200mm may be necessary.
- Drainage Solutions:
- For effective drainage, use a layer thickness of 100-150mm, depending on the soil conditions and drainage requirements.
- Base Courses:
- For robust base courses, especially in high load-bearing areas, ensure a compacted layer thickness of 150-200mm.
- Concrete Applications:
- For reinforced concrete bases, a thickness range of 75-150mm is typically required depending on the load and use.
By following these guidelines and consulting optimising pavement structure, you can ensure your project is built on a solid and durable foundation.
| Application | Aggregate Type | Suggested Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| Basecourse | AP65 Recycled Aggregate | 150-300mm |
| Base course | AP40 Recycled Aggregate | 100-200mm |
| Basecourse (Top layer) | AP20 Recycled Aggregate | 50-100mm |
| Sub-base | AP65 Recycled Aggregate | 200-400mm |
| Pathways | AP40 Recycled Aggregate | 75-150mm |
| Pathways | GAP 40 | 75-150mm |
| Pathways | GAP 25 | 50-100mm |
| Driveways | AP20 Recycled Aggregate | 100mm |
| Roading | GAP 65 | 150-300mm |
| Roading | GAP 40 | 100-200mm |
| Sealing Chip | GAP 7 | 30-50mm |
| Sealing Chip | SAP 7 | 30-50mm |
| Drainage | 40/20 Crushed Concrete Drainage | 100-200mm |
| Retaining Walls | 40/20 Crushed Concrete Drainage | 100-150mm |
| Retaining Walls | 50/20 Scoria | 100-150mm |
| Lightweight Fill | 50/20 Scoria | 100-200mm |
| Landscaping | Screened Soil | 50-100mm |
| Topsoil for lawns and gardens | Screened Soil | 50-150mm |
| Concrete | Residential Driveways / Patios | 100mm |
| Concrete | ROW Driveways / Light Commercial | 150mm |
| Concrete | Commercial Driveways | 200mm |
Guide to Calculating Square Area for Your Project
To get an estimate, you’ll first need to know the Square Area of your project. Use this guide and the Area Calculator to get your totals, then simply drop them into our Aggregate Calculator.
The system of measurement below is straightforward, so anyone should be able to find out the Square Area of even the most complex shapes. This includes combinations of square, rectangular, triangular, curved, or zig-zag paths, patios, driveways, etc. The basic calculation is Area = Length × Width.
You may need to break up your measurements into groups to accommodate various shapes, but once you have your figures, just add them together to get the total.
Basic Shapes The Square Area of a basic shape, like a square or rectangle, is calculated by multiplying the length by the width. For a basic-shaped project, this should be easy.
Calculating the area of a basic shape
Zig-Zag Shapes Simply measure the total length of the centre line of your zig-zag shape and multiply this by the width, as per the diagram below. Sometimes it may be easier to lay a rope or hose down the center line to get your measurement.
Calculating the area of zig-zag shapes
Curved Shapes As with a zig-zag shape, the approach is the same: measure the total length of the centre line and multiply this by the width, as per the diagram below. Tip: Use pegs to hold your center line in place, and an additional rope and peg to get the precise curves you need.
Calculating the area of curved shapes
Triangular Shapes If you have leftover triangular shapes that do not get calculated, the math is slightly different. You will need to measure one side to find the width, then measure at right angles to the width side to find the height, as shown below. These measurements can then be added to our Area Calculator as a ‘Triangular Shape.’
Calculating the area of triangular shapes
Ready to calculate your cubic meters? Now that you have your square area sorted, jump over to the Aggregate Calculator.