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product queries and answers

Why Choose Recycled Concrete Aggregate?

Using recycled aggregates not only minimizes environmental impact but also brings a unique character to your fire pit area. Opt for dust for a minimalist, smooth look, or choose 10mm aggregate to showcase the vibrant mix of recycled materials while maintaining sustainability and

I need something that will give a firm base, and improve my road at home until I have the money to cement my driveway.

Our road base provides a solid and reliable surface for driving. It’s a blend of dust, 10mm and 20mm aggregate, and a touch of red soil, which helps bind the mix together with the concrete, creating a strong and stable foundation.  It has a compaction rating of a 2.3.

A compaction rating of 2.3 indicates the density achieved when the material is compacted, measured in tonnes per cubic meter (t/m³). For road base, this means that after compaction, 1 cubic meter of material will weigh approximately 2.3 tonnes.

This level of compaction provides:

  • Stability: Creates a solid and durable base for construction projects.
  • Load Support: Can handle heavy loads, making it ideal for roads, driveways, house pads, and shed pads.
  • Minimal Settling: Ensures the foundation remains firm over time, reducing the risk of shifting or settling.
I’m putting down a rainwater tank. What product would you use?
  1. Level Surface: The fine particles in the dust create a smooth, even surface that can be compacted to prevent the tank from tilting.
  2. Excellent Compaction: Dust compacts well, forming a dense, stable base that can support the weight of a full rainwater tank without shifting or settling.
  3. Good Drainage: It allows for adequate water runoff, reducing the risk of water pooling under the tank, which could cause instability.
  4. Cost-Effective: Using dust is an economical choice compared to other base materials.
  5. Prevents Tank Damage: A compacted dust base minimizes sharp edges or uneven surfaces that could damage the tank’s bottom.
I need a product that can be used as a rumble to ensure mud does not go out on the road during construction/ renovation.

Mud and Dirt Control: The larger-sized aggregate helps remove mud, dirt, and debris from vehicle tires, preventing it from being tracked onto public roads or into other areas of the property.

  Improved Drainage: The open structure of 28/50 allows water to flow through easily, reducing pooling and erosion at the entrance during rain.

  Durability: The coarse, robust nature of 28/50 makes it capable of withstanding heavy traffic from construction vehicles without breaking down or compacting excessively.

  Low Maintenance: It requires minimal upkeep during the construction phase while keeping the entrance area functional and tidy.

  Cost-Effective Solution: Provides a long-lasting and affordable way to manage site cleanliness and accessibility.

I’m a home handyman and building a retaining wall. What concrete aggregate would you suggest.

20mm Recycled Aggregate

  • Best for Backfilling: Provides excellent drainage, making it ideal for backfilling behind the retaining wall to prevent water buildup and reduce hydrostatic pressure.
  • Compacts Well: Offers good stability while allowing water to flow through, reducing pressure on the wall.
  • Suitable for Smaller Gaps: Its smaller size makes it easier to work with in tight spaces or where finer material is preferred.

28/50 Aggregate

  • Best for Base Layers or Large Drainage Areas: Its larger size ensures optimal water flow and is suitable for drainage zones requiring high permeability.
  • Reduces Clogging: Larger particles are less likely to become compacted or clogged over time.
  • Better for Heavy Loads: Provides a sturdy foundation for areas supporting heavy retaining walls.

Suggestion

Use 28/50 aggregate for drainage layers at the base or behind the wall to ensure maximum water flow, paired with 20mm aggregate in finer backfill zones where a balance of compaction and drainage is needed.

This is one solution.  There are others that you can explore.

Always consult an engineer for specific requirements to ensure the wall’s integrity and compliance with standards.

I’m requiring an aggregate for a septic pit. What aggregate could I use?
  1. Excellent Drainage: The larger particle size creates ample space between stones, allowing wastewater to percolate and disperse effectively into the surrounding soil.
  2. Reduces Clogging: The coarse nature of 28/50mm aggregate minimizes the risk of fine particles or sediment blocking the drainage pathways, ensuring long-term functionality.
  3. Strong Support: It provides a stable and durable base to support the septic system and prevents shifting or settling over time.
  4. Improved Filtration: While promoting water flow, it helps filter out solids, assisting in the initial treatment process.
  5. Compliance with Standards: Many septic system designs specify larger aggregates like 28/50mm to meet drainage and durability requirements.

Using 28/50mm aggregate ensures your septic system operates efficiently, with minimal maintenance and maximum lifespan.

Always consult an engineer, professional plumber, builder for specific requirements to ensure compliance with standards are met.

We are putting in a fibreglass pool, what bedding aggregate could I use?

The following guide may assist you to estimate the bin size you will need in comparison to a standard 6ft x 4ft trailer:
2m skip bin – 3 trailer loads
3m skip bin – 4.5 trailer loads
4m skip bin – 6 trailer loads
6m skip bin – 8 trailer loads

I’m putting in a fire pit. Keeping in mind I’m wanting to use a sustainable, environmentally friendly product that will also be very cost effective, what product could i consider?

Depending on your desired look and functionality, both dust and 10mm aggregate offer distinct advantages:

Dust

  • Smooth Surface: Provides a fine, compacted base that is comfortable to walk on, making it ideal for seating areas around the fire pit.
  • Cost-Effective: A budget-friendly option that maximizes coverage while still being environmentally sustainable.
  • Versatile Finish: Creates a neat, clean look and can be layered with other decorative elements if desired.

10mm Aggregate

  • Visually Appealing: The mix of colours—light greys (concrete), warm terracotta tones (pavers and bricks), and deep grey to black (bitumen)—adds a rustic and textured aesthetic that complements outdoor spaces.
  • Sustainable Choice: Made from recycled materials, it diverts waste from landfills and reduces
  • the demand for virgin aggregates.
  • Good Drainage: Allows water to drain through easily, preventing pooling and ensuring the area remains dry and safe.
  • Durable and Low Maintenance: Withstands foot traffic and the occasional spill from fire pit activities without significant wear.
I have black soil and need a firm base to enter and exit my property. What would you suggest……

Use our 28-50mm over the road, packing it in until it is level with the ground or slightly raised.  Use the roadbase (ensure it is moist) over the top approx. 100mm thick and pack it down.  For best results wakka pack it down or drive over it with a bucket or heavy machinery.

I’ve seen on some of your photos of your products, some people have chosen dust, 10mm, 20mm or road base for their roads, parking areas, under sheds. Can you briefly explain why?

Choosing the right aggregate for roads, parking areas, or under sheds depends on the specific needs of the area, including the desired look and durability. Here’s why different aggregates like dust, 10mm, 20mm, and roadbase are commonly used:

Dust

  • Look: Provides a smooth, clean finish, offering a subtle, uniform surface. It’s ideal for areas where you want a neat, compact appearance.
  • Durability: While durable under light traffic, it’s best suited for areas with minimal movement or load-bearing needs. It compacts well and forms a solid surface over time.
  • Uses: Often chosen for decorative or light-use areas, such as pathways or under sheds for a stable, level base.

10mm Aggregate

  • Look: Slightly more textured than dust, with visible particles that give a more natural, varied appearance. The mix of colours and sizes creates a visually appealing finish.
  • Durability: Provides better drainage and stability compared to dust, handling light to moderate traffic and foot traffic well.
  • Uses: Ideal for driveways, parking areas, and paths where a balance of aesthetic and functionality is needed.

20mm Aggregate

  • Look: A chunkier, more rugged appearance than 10mm, creating a more pronounced texture and depth.
  • Durability: Highly durable, making it suitable for areas with moderate to heavy traffic. It offers excellent drainage and resists erosion over time.
  • Uses: Perfect for driveways, roads, and parking lots where durability is a key concern.

Roadbase

  • Look: Has a more granular, compacted texture, often with a mix of different-sized materials. It provides a rugged, utilitarian look that blends well with natural surroundings.
  • Durability: Extremely durable and strong, designed to handle heavy traffic and loads. It’s the most used aggregate for creating solid road surfaces, parking lots, and large foundation areas like under sheds.
  • Uses: Ideal for roads, high-traffic parking areas, or as a solid base for shed foundations, where the focus is on strength and long-term stability.

Each aggregate option has a distinct combination of aesthetic appeal and durability, allowing you to choose the best material based on your project’s needs.

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Call 07 46 384 438 or use the form below to get a quote.

We understand the importance of a service that works around our clients’ needs and requirements and exceeds expectations in every instance.

Our complete range of waste management services include:

• Residential and commercial bin services

• Small, medium sized bins available

• Prompt bin delivery and removal

• Flexible skip bin hire

• Friendly, courteous and a highly trained team

• Waste repurposing and recycling

We can help answer all your waste questions and provide you with the best solution to suit your needs and budget.

For reliable and affordable skip bin hire in Toowoomba and surrounds, call Zilch Waste on 07 46 384 438.

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