Aggregates are the unspoken heroes of many industries. They sit at the pinnacle of almost every design and construction project, including horticulture, aviation, education, road building, energy, rail, power, and housing.
Although they are used in every industry worldwide, you will predominantly find aggregates used in the construction industry the most for projects that include drainage, protection, leveling, and filling. 
But what are aggregates, and why are they so important? Read on to discover the meaning and importance of aggregates and why choosing trusted aggregate suppliers like Delta Aggregates is your best bet in obtaining quality aggregate supplies.
What Are Aggregates?
Let’s look at what the noun aggregates means to understand what aggregates are. The noun “aggregates” describes a group of granular materials used in landscaping, construction, and building, including rocks, gravels, shells, and sand. As a result, the term aggregates describes a combination of materials that come together to form a whole.
An example of this combination of materials can be seen in road bases, which combine several different materials, including sand, shells, limestone, and calcium – thus creating an aggregate.
The 3 Main Types Of Aggregates
There are different categories of aggregates based on the kind of production and extraction methods used. These three main types can be grouped as follows: quarried, decorative, and recycled aggregates.
Quarried Aggregates
Quarried aggregates refer to materials made from natural sources, which are then mined from quarries. These materials include suDS aggregates, quarried sand, and rip rap, amongst others.
Quarried aggregates are first extracted from the ground before being screened and washed to create the necessary grading. It is crucial to note that the grade and type of aggregate will be affected by the geographical location.
Decorative Aggregates
Decorative aggregates can be quarried and used as is or shaped as needed. These decorative aggregates can include pebbles, gravel, gabion stone, and slate chippings, amongst others.
Landscaping projects like enhancing water features and plant borders and creating driveways and garden walkways all require the use of decorative aggregates.
This type of aggregate needs little to no maintenance and is ideal for both commercial and residential outdoor landscaping projects.
Recycled Aggregates
Brick, concrete, and asphalt originating from demolition sites are recycled aggregates and can all be reused and recycled into copious applications.
By using recycled aggregates, you can alleviate the strain on quarried stocks and limit the aggregate waste that makes its way into landfill sites.
The Importance of Aggregates: Top 5 Reasons
No construction project would be complete if not for the wonders of aggregates. If you choose to forgo aggregates in your construction project, you may have countless issues.
So, before you decide to forgo aggregates, let’s dive into the five reasons aggregates are essential:
Using Aggregates To Make Construction and Infrastructure Materials
Aggregates can be used to make crucial construction and infrastructure materials like asphalt, mortar, and concrete. Using these types of aggregates to form infrastructure and construction materials can help significantly reduce production costs.
Creates An Aesthetically Pleasing Construction Material
Aggregates can create a more aesthetically pleasing construction material. For example, aggregates can be used to define the pattern and color of a beautiful granite countertop or wall and floor tiles used within a space.
Reduces Absorption Rates
Aggregates help to increase the water resistance of many construction and infrastructure materials, making them less permeable to water and more resistant to outdoor elements.
Manages Heat Absorption
Across varying construction projects, aggregates are essential for managing heat absorption. Therefore, using a suitable aggregate material ensures that each structure doesn’t absorb unnecessary heat.
Forms The Majority Of Concretes Composition
Around 60-75% of the total volume of concrete are aggregates. As a result of this, the concrete is stronger and more compact while simultaneously increasing the weight-bearing capacity and resistance of the concrete. This makes concrete stronger and more suitable for all sorts of projects.
Searching For Aggregates For Your Next Construction Project?
Regardless of the infrastructure or construction project you are planning, choosing the right aggregates should be your first and most important consideration.
To ensure your structure withstands the elements, contact Delta Aggregates in Florida, CA, today. We offer copious types of aggregates for all construction and infrastructure needs.