What are the benefits of using blue slate chippings?
What are the benefits of slate chippings? Low maintenance – there is no need for trimming, watering or cutting. Slate chippings also help prevent weed growth. Versatile – this diverse product can be used for paths, driveways, edging, water features, rockeries and much more. Slate chippings can actively reduce weed growth but some weeds may grow through. For this reason, we recommend a weed proof membrane be used to place as a layer before adding the chippings on top. Fix your membrane into the ground with pegs, cutting holes where you intend to put flowers and plants.While they don’t allow water to penetrate as freely as gravel, slate chippings help reduce surface runoff and waterlogging in areas where drainage is a concern – such as garden paths or raised beds. Additionally, when used as a mulch, slate chippings help regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.Slate is better suited as a top layer when used as a bedding layer or path. And while slate chippings can actively reduce weed growth, it’s possible that some weeds may grow through. For this reason, a weed proof membrane can be used to place as a layer before adding the chippings.What is the Difference Between Gravel and Chippings? Gravel consists of rounded stones, while chippings are angular and often sourced from crushed natural stone. Chippings provide a fantastic solution for landscaping projects, offering durability, aesthetic appeal, and functionality.Slate chippings are ideal for enhancing garden areas, rockeries, ponds, borders and driveways. Slate Chippings are also flat, making them perfect for paths and comfortable to walk on!
What are blue slate chippings made of?
Blue slate chippings are made from natural slate rock, a metamorphic rock derived from shale under intense heat and pressure. The blue hue comes from the presence of specific minerals like chlorite and iron oxide, which give it its characteristic cool tones. Types of slate chippings We offer various natural colours including plum, blue, graphite grey and green (note: colours may vary due to the seam being mined).Choosing your slate chippings They’re available in four stunning colours, choose from blue, plum, green or graphite grey slate chippings. For example, the 40mm Graphite Grey Slate.
How do I calculate how much slate chippings I need?
It is important to work out the area coverage by multiplying the length by the width and then the depth of the area to cover. The depth is least important as we typically recommend a depth of 30-50mm coverage with all decorative aggregates, chippings, gravel, slates and pebbles. For example, One ton of stone will cover up to 240 square feet with 1” depth, 120 square feet with 2” depth, 80 square feet with 3” depth, etc.
How thick do slate chippings need to be to cover?
For the majority of garden projects, mini mulch and 20mm slate chippings should be laid approximately 4-5cm deep. We recommend ensuring the area underneath slate chippings is compacted and laid with geotextile membrane before laying slate chippings. Not only will a membrane layer reduce weed growth but will also stop chippings from working into the soil, making them last longer and be more stable.Should I wash slate chippings before use? If you’re using slate as mulch or top dressing, or in and around a water feature, we’d recommend thoroughly washing it.
How long do slate chippings last?
These slate chips last indefinitely, unlike organic mulches that decompose. Their flat shape makes walking easier and prevents movement underfoot, while round gravel rolls easily. Used to stabilize paths, define flower beds, cover areas under decks, or surround mature trees. When laid properly, slate chippings can significantly reduce weed growth. The dense layer they form acts as a barrier, making it challenging for weeds to penetrate. However, it’s important to lay a weed control membrane underneath the chippings for maximum effectiveness.Uses/applications of slate chippings This hard wearing product is ideal for areas with heavy manoeuvre such as garden pathways and driveways. The angular shape of the chippings allows it to bind together so that when driven or walked upon by heavy traffic the chippings will not disperse or get stuck in tyre treads.