What is it used for
Landscaping
Ideal for creating decorative garden paths, borders, and ground cover, adding a natural and rustic look to outdoor spaces.
Driveways
Used for surfacing driveways, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface that complements traditional and contemporary homes.
Pathways
Commonly used for pathways, providing a stable, non-slip surface that is easy to maintain and visually appealing.
Dimensions
Grain Size: Typically 10 mm to 20 mm.
Volume: Usually sold in bulk bags (approximately 0.6 m³) or smaller bags (25 kg).
Weight (Bulk Bag): Approximately 850 kg.
Weight (25 kg Bag): Approximately 25 kg.
Color: Warm honey hues.
What it’s Made From
Natural Limestone
The primary material, sourced from quarries in the Cotswold region, valued for its durability and attractive color.
Water
Used during processing to clean the stone chippings.
Colorants
Natural pigments inherent in the limestone that provide its characteristic warm hues.
Variations
Decorative Cotswold Chippings
Description: Smaller, more uniform chippings with a consistent size and shape, offering a refined look.
Applications: Ideal for decorative garden areas, rockeries, and as a mulch for flower beds, enhancing visual appeal while suppressing weeds.
Cotswold Self-Binding Gravel
Description: A mix of fines and gravel that compacts to form a solid surface, retaining a natural look.
Applications: Perfect for pathways, garden paths, and driveways, providing a stable, low-maintenance surface that remains permeable and environmentally friendly.
Installation
Tools Required
Shovel | Rake | Wheelbarrow | Tamper
Materials Required
Cotswold stone chippings | Landscape fabric (optional) | Edging materials (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Preparation: Clear the area and level the ground. Lay down landscape fabric to prevent weed growth if desired.
Edging: Install edging materials if needed to keep the chippings contained.
Spreading Chippings: Use a wheelbarrow to transport the chippings to the site. Spread them evenly with a shovel.
Leveling: Rake the chippings to achieve a uniform layer.
Tamping: Use a tamper to compact the chippings, ensuring a stable surface.
Finishing Touches: Check for any uneven areas and adjust as necessary. Add more chippings if needed for the desired depth.
Technical Specification
Grain Size: 10 mm to 20 mm.
Bulk Density: 2.2 - 2.4 tonnes/m³.
Color: Warm honey hues.
Durability: High resistance to weathering and wear.
Water Absorption: Low to moderate.
Certification
BS EN 13242: Aggregates for unbound and hydraulically bound materials for use in civil engineering work and road construction.
Purchasing Quantities
Bags
Great for small projects, repairs, or when only a small amount of stone is needed. Usually available in 25 kg bags.
Bulk Bags
Larger quantities than individual bags, often sold in bulk bags weighing approximately 850 to 1000 kg. Suitable for medium-sized construction projects.
Loose Loads
Delivered by the tonne, suitable for large construction projects or extensive landscaping needs.
Environmental Impact
Sustainability Considerations
Sourced from natural quarries, with environmental impact depending on mining practices and transportation.
Eco-friendly Alternatives
Recycled limestone and locally sourced materials can reduce the carbon footprint.
Waste Reduction
Long-lasting material that requires minimal replacement, contributing to waste reduction.
Energy Efficiency
Low energy required for installation and maintenance compared to other construction materials.
