13 May

The Ultimate Guide to Using Decorative Stones in Your Garden

Looking to refresh your outdoor space but unsure where to start? Picture a garden with structure, texture and colour, all brought to life with the clever use of decorative stones. From pebbles and gravel to slate and shingle, these versatile materials offer endless landscaping ideas to suit every style and function.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll share practical, expert-backed tips for landscaping with decorative stones - helping you overcome common challenges and choose the right solution with help from our quality products and knowledgeable team.

Types of Decorative Stones and Their Best Uses

When it comes to landscaping with aggregates, it’s important to understand which type of decorative stone suits your space and how each material performs. While they all offer visual appeal, different stones bring different benefits - and some limitations too.

Here’s a closer look at four of the most popular choices.

Pebbles

Naturally smooth and rounded, coloured pebbles are gentle underfoot, making them a great option for garden paths when paired with landscape fabric. They're equally effective around water features, in plant pots, or as soft-edged borders that help define different areas of your garden. Their texture adds subtle contrast, but they’re best avoided for driveways as they shift easily under pressure.

Gravel and Shingle

Gravel and shingle are among the most durable and cost-effective materials for outdoor spaces. Their rough surface provides grip, making them ideal for driveways and garden paths. They don’t crack or sink like other hard surfaces, and they’re also excellent for improving drainage, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging. We often recommend rainbow shingle to enhance water features with eye-catching colour.

Slate

Slate offers a bold, contemporary finish. Its flat, angular pieces work well in borders and around patio edges or ponds, where they bring a striking, modern aesthetic. However, slate is too sharp and brittle for driveways and may damage tyres over time.

Stone Paving

For those looking to create a dining or seating area, natural stone paving is a solid choice. It’s flat, durable, and available in a range of finishes to suit every garden design. Perfect for patios and entertaining outdoors.

We supply a wide selection of decorative stones for gardens. Ideas, advice, and support - we’re always here to help at MB Wilkes.

Design and Styling Ideas

When it comes to landscaping with decorative stones, the right design choices can completely transform your garden. Here are some creative, practical ways to use stones to enhance both style and structure:

  • Garden Zoning with Colour: Use different coloured stones to mark out distinct zones in your garden – perfect for separating a natural, wildlife-friendly area from a neat, structured space. Light and dark stones can be used to create contrast, helping to highlight your planting choices and give each section its own identity.
  • Paths and Walkways: Pebbles or gravel make attractive, low-maintenance paths. For a more polished look, add stepping stones or edging to define the route. This not only guides foot traffic but can also give the illusion of a longer, more spacious garden.
  • Borders: Decorative stones form clean, natural borders around flowerbeds and along paths. For a coastal-inspired feel, rounded coloured pebbles are ideal, while Cotswold cobbles create a traditional, countryside finish. Both options help contain planting while adding character.
  • Water Features: Rainbow shingle or smooth pebbles enhance the visual appeal and sound of any water feature. Whether it's a pond, fountain, or stream, stones add colour and definition while supporting the natural look of your setup.
  • Driveways: For a functional and stylish entrance, gravel or shingle is an affordable alternative to tarmac. Popular choices include golden shingle for a warm, traditional look, blue slate for a modern touch, or limestone for a more refined finish.

We supply only the best pebbles for garden use, tailored to suit every style and purpose.

Functional Benefits

Landscaping with decorative stones isn’t just about looks - it offers real, long-lasting benefits too. Here are three practical reasons to consider landscaping with aggregates in your garden:

  • Drainage: Gravel and shingle are excellent for managing excess water. If you’ve got soggy patches on your lawn, waterlogged flowerbeds, or areas near buildings prone to pooling, these materials help water drain away efficiently, protecting both plant health and property foundations.
  • Weed Control: Decorative stones provide a natural barrier against unwanted growth. When laid over geotextile fabric, they form a strong layer that blocks sunlight and prevents weeds from taking hold, reducing the need for constant maintenance.
  • Soil Protection: Heavy rain can wash away topsoil, especially in beds and pots. A covering of decorative stone helps anchor soil in place, reducing erosion while keeping your garden looking tidy.

All practical, all simple, and all part of thoughtful, effective landscaping with decorative stones.

Feature Ideas: The Rockery

If you're looking for low-maintenance landscaping ideas with maximum impact, a rockery is a brilliant choice. Combining stones of different sizes with hardy alpine plants, a well-placed rockery brings texture, colour and natural structure to your garden.

Choose a sunny, well-drained spot and take time to pre-arrange your rocks before planting to make sure the layout feels balanced. Plants like crocuses, tulips and dianthuses add seasonal bursts of colour and are easy to care for.

With minimal upkeep and lasting visual appeal, a rockery is a timeless feature that works beautifully in gardens of all sizes.

Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Decorative Stones for Your Garden

Decorative stones offer style, structure and real practicality, from low maintenance surfaces to improved drainage and effective weed control. Whether you're after bold borders, a new path or a full garden refresh, landscaping with decorative stones is a smart, versatile choice.

We’ve been a trusted, family-run quarry for over 60 years, supplying quality materials at competitive prices. Call us on 01258 857465 or use our contact form for expert advice tailored to your project.

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9 Apr
Your Projects Brought to Life: Before and After Using Our Gravel
Selecting the right gravel for your property can significantly affect appearance, durability, drainage and maintenance. At MB Wilkes, we specialise in supplying and installing high‑quality primary sands and gravels - from decorative shingle and chippings to robust planings and crushed stone - tailored to the unique requirements of every customer. With decades of experience serving homeowners, property managers and businesses across the UK, we understand how material choice, particle size and finish can transform driveways, pathways, patios and more. In this blog, we’ll showcase some recent projects, with images courtesy of CW Stanley who executed the work using our products. With an array of options available, our aggregates will deliver lasting results, enhancing kerb appeal while offering excellent value for money. New Driveway in Merley, Wimborne What a difference a day makes! In Merley, Wimborne, CW Stanley transformed a tired tarmac driveway into a crisp, low‑maintenance surface in just one day. After removing the existing worn surfacing and installing a durable geotextile membrane for weed control and drainage, their team laid a neat charcoal block‑paving edge before spreading our 20 mm Dorset Limestone chippings. The result is an attractive, uniform finish that enhances kerb appeal, improves water runoff and eliminates patch repairs. The customer chose Dorset Limestone chippings for their hard‑wearing quality, natural appearance and cost‑effective longevity - a perfect solution for a hassle‑free driveway upgrade. A Mega Undertaking in Poole, Dorset A mega driveway transformation in Poole, Dorset, was completed in just 1.5 days using our 20 mm Ice Blue decorative gravel, laid over a geotextile membrane to ensure excellent drainage and weed suppression. Crisp concrete kerb stones neatly define the driveway’s boundary, while a smooth asphalt parking bay provides a practical contrast. The finished surface delivers striking kerb appeal, low maintenance and long‑term durability for two neighbouring properties. By combining MB Wilkes’ premium Ice Blue chippings with CW Stanley’s efficient installation, this project achieved exceptional value, performance and a standout aesthetic in record time. A Beautiful Result in Poole, Dorset What a beautiful frontage this is now! CW Stanley completed a stunning driveway transformation this week at a property in Poole, Dorset. After removing the old, uneven gravel and preparing a stable, compacted sub‑base with a geotextile membrane for superior drainage and weed control, crisp grey block paving was installed to define the driveway’s perimeter. Our 20 mm Polar Ice decorative chippings, were laid to a uniform depth, delivering a striking, low‑maintenance finish. The work significantly improved kerb appeal while extending and boosting practical performance - all achieved in minimal time, at exceptional value. A Tasteful Finish in Colehill, Wimborne In just two days, CW Stanley completed a tasteful driveway and frontage transformation at a property in Colehill, Wimborne. After removing old paving and uneven gravel, the team installed a compacted sub‑base topped with a geotextile membrane for superior drainage and weed suppression. Concrete block‑paving edging defines the perimeter, creating a neat, professional finish. Our team supplied 20 mm Quantock Grey decorative chippings, which were laid to a consistent depth to deliver a striking, low‑maintenance surface. The result is enhanced kerb appeal, excellent durability and a practical, value‑adding upgrade. Why Should You Choose MB Wilkes? When it comes to sourcing high‑quality aggregates, MB Wilkes stands head and shoulders above the competition. As a family‑owned sand and gravel quarry based in Dorset, we combine decades of local expertise with the largest product range on the market - from decorative gravels and garden stones to specialist sands, soils and construction materials. Our team of aggregate specialists possesses unrivalled knowledge, enabling us to recommend exactly the right material for any project, whether you’re a homeowner upgrading your driveway or a national developer specifying bulk supplies. MB Wilkes’ reputation for excellence extends across councils, utility companies, sports grounds and public landscaping schemes, reflecting our ability to deliver consistently outstanding service to clients of every scale. Thanks to our strong industry relationships, we offer competitive, transparent pricing without compromising on quality - meaning you benefit from premium materials at the best value. We also make waste disposal straightforward with our inert tip facility, while our versatile fleet of tipper lorries and grab trucks ensures precise, reliable deliveries direct to your site. Above all, our commitment to exceptional customer service means clear communication, punctual delivery and meticulous attention to detail from enquiry through to completion. Whatever your aggregate requirements, MB Wilkes guarantees the highest quality products, unbeatable expertise and complete peace of mind - all delivered from the heart of Dorset. Get in Touch With the Experts Ready to transform your project? Browse MB Wilkes’ full range of decorative aggregates, garden stones, sands and soils on our website and place your order in minutes. For personalised advice, competitive quotes or any enquiries, simply give our friendly team a call on 01258 857465 or complete our quick contact form. Whether you need delivery to your doorstep or guidance choosing the perfect product, we’re here to help - offering expert support, transparent pricing and reliable service across Dorset and beyond. Don’t wait - get in touch with MB Wilkes today and discover why we’re the UK’s leading supplier of high‑quality aggregates now.
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15 May
Summer Gardening Tips and Tricks
The summer months are a busy time for gardeners, as gardening offers a great opportunity to enjoy those long, warm days and evenings. Despite most of the planting of flowers and vegetables being done earlier in the spring, there is plenty to be done over the summer. May and June are ideal times for bedding plants to be planted out, raising foliage plants, and sowing several outdoor seed varieties, including Alstroemeria, Achillea, Arabis, Canterbury Bells, Coreopsis, Erigeron, Myosotis and Sweet William. Weather can be unpredictable during these months, so during May, you want to protect more vulnerable plants with a horticultural fleece, which you can remove in June. As the threat of frost should have passed by June, it is the ideal time to plant bedding plants grown under cover either into borders or into hanging baskets and containers. Late-flowering Annuals Throughout May, you should sow late-flowering annuals such as Nasturtiums under glass. You can expect them to flower from August onwards if you sow them in early May. You may also want to sow fast-maturing annuals, like Clarkias and Calendulas. You will be able to enjoy them blooming throughout the summer, which will add an extra splash of colour to your garden. Don't forget to add some water gel crystals and slow-release fertiliser to your compost when planting. Who doesn't love a Dahlia? Use your time in May to plant Dahlia bulbs, but protect them from slugs. This will also work with your regular gardening jobs of watering, mowing and weeding. Don't forget to spruce up your window boxes too. Check that you have enough topsoil before doing this to ensure a smooth and easy process. Tidy Up June is usually a time for you to dedicate a few minutes to tidying up parts of your garden. Dead foliage should be removed from spring flowering bulbs, excluding daffodils and tulips, which should be left a little longer to die back naturally. Trim or throw away any faded plants and keep on top of your weeding, with a particular focus on your borders and beds. Install Protection Fruits bushes and trees should be inspected carefully to check for pests and diseases and treated if necessary. Soft fruit bushes, such as currants and strawberries, should be protected by a fruit cage or netting to prevent birds from eating the fruit. Carrots should be protected from carrot fly, and cabbages from caterpillar damage by covering them with protective materials. If you are keeping some plants in a greenhouse to keep them safe, they need to be kept well-ventilated during the day as extreme variations in temperature could adversely affect the fruiting of tomato plants. In addition, tapping the flowers of greenhouse tomatoes will improve pollination. Uncover Fruit and Vegetable Strawberry bushes that have been kept under glass should now be uncovered so that pollinating insects can gain access to them. Vegetables such as brussel sprouts, cabbage, celery, courgettes, cucumbers, marrows, runner and French beans that have been grown in a greenhouse should also now be planted out. Don't forget to keep them hydrated and keep the soil as moist as possible. If you have vegetables like marrows, peppers, tomatoes and courgettes, ensure that these are hardened off before you look to plant them outside. Mow Grass Regularly May is the start of the mowing season, and you will need to mow your grass more regularly and ensure that your mower blades are kept sharp. Water Regularly May through September can be hot and dry, so remember to water plants regularly to avoid wilting. To aid drainage, a layer of gravel or shingle is a great solution that also offers a touch of style and texture to your garden area! Renovate Your Garden Summer is also a great time to landscape your garden by adding some raised plant beds using sleepers or even fitting a paved section to create the perfect space for garden furniture.
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16 Jan
Grab-Away Waste Removal: Large-Scale Waste Management
Waste removal and disposal is a part of your business that you can’t ignore, yet it is often something that is left at the bottom of the to-do list to sort out because many businesses think it is a hassle. However, this doesn’t have to be the case with grab-away waste removal services. No matter what size business you are running, it is likely that you will be producing a fair amount of waste, so large waste removal services with tipper and grab lorries are often an ideal solution that ensures your waste is removed and disposed of responsibly and in a compliant manner. In the article, we discuss what our grab-away waste removal solutions include and why you should consider them for your waste disposal in Dorset. What are grab-away waste removal solutions from MB Wilkes? Grab-away waste removal services are exactly as they say on the tin; a licensed waste disposal company, such as ourselves, visits your site, grabs your waste, and removes it for disposal. Read our guide to grab hire and muck away service to learn more about what we offer. Grab or tipper truck for grab-away services? Usually, a grab lorry is used for this service, as they have grab arms that extend and pick up the waste from the site and place it into the bed of the lorry. This makes loading the waste from your site into the lorry easy and efficient. However, for some large-scale waste removals across Dorset, such as on construction sites, a tipper lorry may be used as they have the equipment to load the bed of the tipper lorry. We have a fleet of grab and tipper lorries, which are able to remove up to 20 tonnes of waste in one trip.  Waste types accepted Our grab-away waste removal service is able to accept a variety of waste types, making it a flexible solution for many businesses.  Waste types accepted include: Sand Concrete Gravel & aggregates Building & Landscape materials Not sure if we collect your waste type? Our team is always happy to discuss our services with you and answer any questions, so get in touch with us at 01258 857465. Frequency of grab-away collections Our grab-away services are flexible, so we can create a schedule that suits your needs. If you are working on a one-off project or infrequently have large amounts of waste to dispose of, a one-off grab-away waste removal is likely to be the best solution for you. This will ensure that you are only paying for what you need rather than paying for a large grab or tipper truck that you might not fill. Alternatively, if you frequently have large amounts of waste to dispose of, we can arrange a scheduled waste collection with our grab-away service. We can work with you to create a schedule that suits you; whether you need the waste removed once a week, once a fortnight or once a month, you can trust us to reliably remove your waste when you need it gone. Benefits of grab-away waste removal solutions No matter how often you use our grab-away service, there are many benefits.  Save stress Trying to find a way to remove large quantities of waste can be stressful, especially if you aren't sure what to do with it. Our large waste removal services remove the stress and make the disposal process smooth and hassle-free. We have a reliable and expert team, so you can trust that we will get the job done, allowing you to get on with other work that needs your attention. Lower carbon footprint Removing all the waste in one journey, as opposed to lots of smaller journeys is better for the environment and will help you run a more sustainable and environmentally friendly business. Additionally, waste removed by a professional service will be disposed of correctly, meaning it is more likely to go to a recycling centre than a landfill. Safe working environment Large amounts of waste can take up space on your site. Using a grab-away waste removal service will mean you don't have heaps of rubbish sitting around your site, creating a safer work environment for your staff. Why use MB Wilkes? MB Wilkes are waste removal experts, providing a stress-free grab-away waste removal solution to businesses across Poole, Bournemouth and the rest of Dorset. We are fully licenced to remove and transport waste from your site to a disposal facility, meaning we provide a fully compliant waste disposal service. Being able to remove up to 20 tonnes in one trip, our service makes waste removal quick. Our aim is to make large waste removals simple to sort so that the task can be ticked off your to-do list quickly and stay ticked off. The MB Wilkes team are always happy to discuss your needs and work with you to create a grab-away waste removal solution that suits you and your business needs. Contact our expert team today by calling 01258 857465 or completing our contact form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
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13 Nov
How can soils and aggregates stop flooding?
If you're wondering how to stop garden flooding, whether you're a keen gardener or managing farmland, we've got a straightforward seven-step plan that works brilliantly. British weather can be unpredictable, and those heavy downpours are inevitable, but improving your soil structure makes all the difference. At MB Wilkes, we know a thing or two about soils and aggregates. Following these seven simple steps will help reduce flooding risks and keep your outdoor space in top condition, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your garden or growing successful crops year after year. 1. Minimise Tillage So, how does soil prevent floods? It all starts with tillage. When you minimise soil disturbance, you're helping it develop better structure and aggregation, which means it acts like a natural sponge during heavy rainfall. Well-structured soil absorbs and retains water brilliantly rather than letting it run off and cause flooding. Reduced tillage also preserves organic matter, which is fantastic for improving water-holding capacity and overall soil health. The more organic matter your soil contains, the more water it can store, keeping your garden or farmland protected during those inevitable British downpours. 2. Limit Farm Traffic If you're wondering how to stop a clay garden flooding, timing your farm traffic makes a real difference. Heavy machinery like tractors and combines compacts the soil, reducing pore space and making water infiltration much harder. Compacted soil behaves like a hard surface, increasing runoff during rainfall and worsening flooding risks. By limiting traffic to dry periods and avoiding movement when conditions are wet, you'll maintain better soil structure that absorbs water more effectively. It's a straightforward step that protects your soil's natural drainage capacity and keeps your land in better condition year-round. 3. Manage Drainage Proper drainage management is essential for preventing flooding in both rural and urban settings. A well-designed drainage system redirects water flow away from vulnerable areas that are prone to waterlogging, protecting your soil and plants from excess moisture. Whether you're managing a large farm or a residential garden, effective drainage prevents water from accumulating in problem spots and causing damage. By channelling water to appropriate areas, you maintain healthier soil conditions and reduce the risk of standing water that can harm crops, plants, and landscape features during periods of heavy rainfall. 4. Use Cover Crops, Green Manures and Mulches Knowing how to stop garden flooding often comes down to what you plant between your main crops. Cover crops, green manures, and mulches are brilliant for improving soil structure and reducing water runoff. As they decompose, they add valuable organic matter that helps soil absorb more water, preventing surface flooding during heavy rain. These protective layers also shield bare soil from rainfall impact, minimising crusting and allowing better water infiltration. Here's what they offer: Enhanced soil structure and water retention Reduced surface runoff and erosion Improved organic matter content Better water penetration during downpours 5. Use Grass Leys to Improve Organic Matter Grass leys (fields planted with grasses and legumes) are fantastic for enriching soil and great if you’re wondering how to stop garden flooding naturally. As these plants decompose, they add organic matter that creates better soil structure capable of holding more water during heavy rainfall. The extensive root networks they develop promote soil aggregation while reducing compaction, leading to improved water infiltration and storage. Well-structured soil equipped with this organic boost handles excess water far more effectively, significantly reducing surface flooding risks. It's a natural, sustainable approach that benefits both your soil health and flood prevention efforts. 6. Use Plants with Large Roots Another trick if you’re wondering how to prevent your garden from flooding is to use plants with large roots. Large roots create natural channels within the soil, improving structure by increasing pore space and reducing compaction. This enhanced structure allows better water infiltration, meaning your soil holds more water instead of letting it run off and cause flooding. Deep-rooted plants also absorb water from lower soil layers, preventing surface accumulation while helping recharge groundwater. During periods of heavy rainfall, these plants actively remove water from the surface, offering natural flood protection that works alongside the soil's improved drainage capacity. 7. Try Agroforestry Agroforestry combines trees or woody shrubs with crops or livestock on the same land, creating a sustainable system that's brilliant for those wondering how to stop garden flooding. The tree roots work similarly to large-rooted plants, creating channels that improve soil aggregation and increase water infiltration. These established root systems enhance soil structure while the trees themselves absorb significant amounts of water, which is particularly helpful during prolonged wet periods. It's an integrated approach that benefits your land in multiple ways, from improved drainage and reduced flooding risks to better soil health and increased biodiversity across your property. Bonus Tip On the subject of how to stop surface water flooding in problem areas, there’s one more step you can take, and that’s to use specific aggregates. Drainage aggregates like our Cerney Gravel, crushed rock (think Basalt Chippings), or porous materials like our Type 3 Limestone create pathways for water to infiltrate quickly, reducing surface runoff and standing water accumulation. We stock quality drainage materials that offer: Rapid water infiltration through porous structure Temporary storage during heavy rainfall Controlled, gradual water release Prevention of flash flooding and uncontrolled runoff These aggregates are a practical solution for gardens, driveways, and farmland prone to waterlogging.   Need Drainage Solutions? MB Wilkes Are Here to Help At MB Wilkes, we deliver quality drainage aggregates across Dorset. Whether you need bulk supplies for farmland or smaller quantities for your garden, no order is too big or too small for our family-run business. With over 60 years of experience and competitive prices, we make it easy to get exactly what you need, delivered straight to your site. Give us a call on 01258 857465 or complete our contact form if you have any questions or concerns.
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29 Oct
Visit Our Product Display for Inspiration
Planning a garden project can feel overwhelming when you're trying to visualise how materials will look. That's why we at MB Wilkes created our display area at Henbury Quarry, near Wimborne, where you can see, touch, and experience our full range of decorative aggregates and landscaping materials in real-world settings. See Our Products in Action Walking through our display area gives you the chance to see how different aggregates, gravels, and decorative stones actually look when they're laid out properly. We've used our own products to create various garden features, pathway designs, and landscaping ideas that demonstrate the versatility and visual impact of quality materials. You'll find everything from subtle natural blue slate that’s perfect for Japanese-inspired gardens to bold decorative chippings, like our polar ice chippings, that create dramatic focal points, all arranged in ways that might just solve that tricky design problem you've been pondering. Take a seat on our benches, which are made from robust oak sleepers (another product we stock), and really take your time exploring the possibilities. There's no pressure here, just plenty of inspiration. Touch, Feel, and Compare Materials One of the biggest advantages of visiting our display area is being able to physically handle the materials before you buy. Photographs online can only tell you so much, but when you can run your hands through different grades of gravel, compare the colours of various decorative stones in natural daylight, and see how textures work together, you'll make much better choices for your project. We find that customers who visit our display area leave feeling more confident and excited about their plans, knowing exactly what they're getting and how it will complement their existing garden features or property style. From Inspiration to Installation Everything you see in our display area is available to purchase and take away with you immediately, which is brilliant if you're ready to crack on with your project straight away. We can also arrange delivery if you're ordering larger quantities or multiple products, saving you the hassle of transport and ensuring your materials arrive safely and on schedule. Our team is always on hand to discuss quantities, calculate what you'll need for your specific project, and provide practical advice based on our 60 years of experience as a family-owned quarry. Beyond our decorative range, we stock comprehensive materials for every stage of your landscaping or construction work: Amenity and landscaping materials for transforming outdoor spaces Sundries for all those miscellaneous items you’ll need on a job Sub-base products to ensure proper drainage and stability Primary sand and gravel for groundwork and concrete mixing Recycled aggregates offering cost-effective and environmentally conscious alternatives Whatever your project demands, we have the materials and expertise to support you from ground preparation right through to those finishing decorative touches. Explore More Before You Visit If you'd like to browse our full product range before visiting, take a look through our online shop, where you'll find detailed information about everything we stock. Our gallery showcases completed projects and different material applications, while our weighbridge section explains how we handle bulk orders for trade customers and larger residential projects. Ready to Get Started? Whether you're planning or ready to purchase, visiting our display area at Henbury Quarry is the perfect next step. For directions, opening times, or to discuss your project requirements, call the friendly team at MB Wilkes today on 01258 857465 or use our contact form. And while you’re here, explore our current special offers online too. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.mbwilkes.com/blog/article/visit-our-product-display-for-inspiration#/" }, "headline": "Visit Our Product Display for Inspiration", "description": "Planning a garden project can feel overwhelming when you're trying to visualise how materials will look. That's why we at MB Wilkes created our display area at Henbury Quarry, near Wimborne, where you can see, touch, and experience our full range of decorative aggregates and landscaping materials in real-world settings.", "image": "https://www.mbwilkes.com/files/thumbs/62a54fe7-7974-4d2d-9be6-80db654c88eb_w650_h400.jpg?1761736902", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "MB Wilkes", "url": "https://www.mbwilkes.com/" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "" } }, "datePublished": "" }
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21 Aug
The ultimate guide to choosing gravel and shingle
How to Choose and Plan the Perfect Gravel Driveway Are you planning a gravel driveway but feeling overwhelmed by the choices available? You're not alone in wondering how to choose and plan the perfect gravel driveway that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. At MB Wilkes, we've been helping homeowners navigate these decisions for over 60 years as a family-owned quarry. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through everything from material selection to design considerations, ensuring your new driveway becomes a beautiful and practical addition to your home. With our consultative approach and National Trust-approved gravel products, we'll help you deliver a driveway that perfectly suits your needs and budget. Understanding Gravel and Shingle Types Now that you're ready to explore your options, let's examine the difference between gravel and shingle and understand the various types available. Gravel particles typically start at around 5mm, whilst anything smaller is classified as sand. However, our shingle range begins at 2mm-6mm, offering you greater flexibility for different applications. Our signature light golden flint shingle showcases beautiful brown and yellow tones, making it perfect for creating warm, welcoming driveways. The difference between shingle and gravel lies primarily in size and application, with our range extending up to 40mm varieties ideal for drainage and soakaways. These natural materials come in numerous shapes, sizes, and colours, giving you tremendous versatility for your project. Different types of gravel and shingle serve specific purposes: smaller particles work brilliantly for decorative areas, whilst larger stones excel in functional drainage applications. For a deeper dive into selecting the ideal material, we've covered the pros and cons of various options in our comprehensive gravel guide, helping you understand which type suits your specific requirements. Choosing the Right Material for Your Project Here we're going to focus on matching the perfect material to your unique situation. When considering gravel vs shingle for your project, think about your space requirements and intended use. Shingle gardens often benefit from finer particles that create smooth, walkable surfaces, whilst larger gravel works excellently for vehicular access. Colour coordination plays a crucial role in your material selection. Neutral driveway materials like grey, beige, or white complement most home exteriors beautifully, blending seamlessly with existing architecture. However, if you're seeking to create a statement feature, consider our coloured options or even combine different materials for added visual interest. Quality considerations shouldn't be overlooked when making your choice. Our National Trust approval demonstrates our commitment to supplying materials that meet the highest standards for both durability and aesthetic appeal. The decision when comparing gravel vs shingle ultimately depends on your specific needs: shingle offers a more refined appearance perfect for formal settings, whilst gravel provides robust functionality for high-traffic areas. Both options deliver excellent long-term value when selected appropriately for your project's requirements. Design and Planning Considerations To learn more about creating the perfect layout, let's explore the essential planning elements for your gravel driveway. Planning a gravel driveway requires careful consideration of several key factors that will determine both its functionality and visual appeal. Consider these crucial design elements: Space and Shape Assessment: Decide between curved pathways for a softer, more natural appearance or clean, straight lines for contemporary appeal Multi-Car Requirements: Calculate width needs for side-by-side parking to eliminate daily car shuffling Visual Integration: Choose whether your driveway should serve as a focal point or blend harmoniously with surrounding landscaping Accessibility Considerations: Ensure adequate turning circles and comfortable gradients for all users Those wanting a permeable driveway design should also account for proper drainage requirements, particularly if your property experiences heavy rainfall. The natural permeability of gravel makes it an excellent choice for sustainable water management, reducing surface runoff whilst maintaining an attractive appearance. Balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal often means considering how your driveway connects with existing garden features, pathways, and architectural elements. In fact, we even have a blog that discusses how to build the perfect gravel garden – definitely worth a read. This thoughtful approach to planning a gravel driveway ensures your investment enhances your property's overall value and kerb appeal. Technical Requirements and Installation Tips Moving on to the practical aspects, proper gravel installation requires attention to specific technical details that ensure longevity and performance. Slope limitations are particularly important: we recommend avoiding loose gravel on gradients exceeding 1:10, as steeper inclines can lead to material displacement and maintenance issues. For gentle slopes that fall within acceptable limits, polythene hexagon mesh provides an excellent solution. This mesh sits approximately 40mm beneath the gravel surface, creating stability whilst maintaining the natural appearance of your driveway. Proper ground preparation forms the foundation of successful gravel installation, requiring adequate excavation, base material application, and compaction. The pallet-dragging method creates that perfectly raked finish, redistributing gravel evenly across the surface. Regular maintenance also prevents weed growth and maintains the professional appearance that makes gravel such an attractive, low-maintenance option for busy homeowners seeking both beauty and practicality. Making Your Final Decision As you approach your final choice, several factors will help you determine the best solution for your specific situation. Our consultative approach means we'll work closely with you to match products perfectly with your project requirements, ensuring optimal results. Key decision factors include: Budget Considerations: We offer cost-effective options without compromising on quality, helping you achieve excellent value Long-Term Maintenance: Gravel driveways provide brilliant low-maintenance solutions compared to alternative materials Expert Guidance: Our 60+ years of experience as one of the UK's leading landscaping suppliers ensures you receive knowledgeable recommendations The gravel vs shingle decision often comes down to your specific aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. With an extensive range including countless types of gravel and shingle, you’re assured of exceptional performance that meets your preferences and a driveway that’s properly specified and installed. Our commitment to excellent customer service means we'll guide you through every aspect of your decision, ensuring your investment delivers lasting satisfaction. Transform Your Property with Quality Gravel Planning a gravel driveway becomes straightforward with 60+ years of family expertise. As one of the UK's leading suppliers, we offer excellent customer service and competitive prices on quality materials. Whether you're deciding how to choose and plan the perfect gravel driveway or ready to order, our team provides personalised recommendations. Contact us on 01258 857465 or complete our contact form for expert guidance and current special offers.
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Family-Owned BusinessFamily-run business supplying quality aggregates for over 60 years.
Family-Owned Business
Family-run business supplying quality aggregates for over 60 years.
Trusted Team of Experts Our expert team of trusted experts is ready to help with all your needs.
Trusted Team of Experts
Our expert team of trusted experts is ready to help with all your needs.
Fully Equipped Fleet We provide fast local delivery with tipper trucks and grab lorries.
Fully Equipped Fleet
We provide fast local delivery with tipper trucks and grab lorries.
Superb Range of Aggregates Small load aggregate collections available directly from our quarry.
Superb Range of Aggregates
Small load aggregate collections available directly from our quarry.

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