Materials & Uses

Shredded Bark:

Shredded bark, also known as bark mulch, is a type of mulch made from the shredded or chipped bark of various tree species.

**Moisture retention**: Like other types of mulch, shredded bark helps retain moisture in the soil by reducing evaporation.

**Weed suppression**: The thick layer of shredded bark mulch helps suppress weed growth by blocking sunlight from reaching weed seeds and inhibiting their germination.

**Temperature regulation**: Shredded bark mulch acts as insulation for the soil, helping to moderate soil temperature fluctuations.

**Soil erosion control**: By covering the soil surface, shredded bark mulch helps prevent soil erosion by reducing the impact of raindrops and slowing down water runoff.

**Soil improvement**: As shredded bark mulch decomposes over time, it adds organic matter to the soil, improving its structure, fertility, and microbial activity.

 

Cedar Mulch:

Cedar mulch is a type of organic mulch made from the shredded or chipped bark of cedar trees.

**Aromatic scent**: One of the distinctive features of cedar mulch is its pleasant and aromatic scent.

**Moisture retention**: Cedar mulch helps retain moisture in the soil by reducing evaporation, which can be particularly beneficial during hot and dry weather conditions.

**Weed suppression**: Like other types of mulch, cedar mulch forms a protective barrier over the soil surface, which helps suppress weed growth by blocking sunlight from reaching weed seeds and inhibiting their germination.

**Temperature regulation**: Cedar mulch acts as insulation for the soil, helping to moderate soil temperature fluctuations.

**Longevity**: Cedar mulch tends to decompose more slowly compared to some other types of organic mulches.

 

Colored Mulch: Red, Black, and Brown:

Colored mulch, also known as dyed mulch or colored wood mulch, is a type of mulch that has been treated with colorants to achieve a specific hue.

**Long-lasting color**: The colorants used in colored mulch are designed to be long-lasting and resistant to fading, even when exposed to sunlight and weather conditions.

**Enhanced weed suppression**: Like other types of mulch, colored mulch helps suppress weed growth by blocking sunlight from reaching weed seeds and inhibiting their germination.

**Moisture retention and soil insulation**: Colored mulch helps retain moisture in the soil by reducing evaporation, which can be particularly beneficial during hot and dry weather conditions.

**Non-toxic colorants**: The colorants used in colored mulch are typically non-toxic and safe for use in landscaping and gardening.

 

Coarse, Premium, and Fine Wood Chips:

The difference between coarse, premium, and fine screened wood chips lies primarily in their size and texture, which can affect their suitability for different applications in landscaping and gardening:

 

**Coarse screened wood chips**:

   - Coarse screened wood chips are larger in size compared to other types of wood chips. They typically have a chunkier texture with irregular shapes and sizes.

   - These wood chips are often used for applications where a more rustic or natural appearance is desired, such as pathways, trails, and naturalized areas in landscaping.

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**Premium screened wood chips**:

   - Premium screened wood chips are typically medium-sized in texture, falling between coarse and fine wood chips in terms of particle size.

   - They are often considered a versatile option for various landscaping applications, including mulching, pathways, and decorative landscaping features.

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**Fine screened wood chips**:

   - Fine screened wood chips are smaller in size and have a finer texture compared to coarse and premium wood chips.

   - These wood chips are often preferred for applications where a more refined or uniform appearance is desired, such as mulching flower beds, gardens, or around trees and shrubs.

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Topsoil:

**Organic Matter**: Topsoil contains a significant amount of organic matter, including decomposed plant and animal material.

**Nutrients**: Topsoil is rich in essential nutrients required for plant growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and various micronutrients.

**Root Growth**: Plant roots primarily grow in the topsoil layer, where they can access water, nutrients, and oxygen necessary for their growth and development.

 

Horse Compost:

Horse compost, also known as horse manure compost, is a type of compost that is produced from the manure of horses, along with bedding materials and any other organic materials that may be present in the horse bedding.

Horse compost is valued for its nutrient content, which includes nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other essential minerals. It also improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention, and promotes beneficial microbial activity in the soil. Horse compost can be used as a soil amendment in gardens, landscaping, and agriculture to enrich the soil and promote plant growth.

 

Growable Fill:

Growable fill refers to a type of soil or material that is suitable for supporting plant growth and vegetation.

**Soil composition**: Growable fill is usually made up of soil that is fertile, well-draining, and rich in organic matter.

**Nutrient content**: Growable fill should have adequate levels of essential nutrients required for plant growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients.

**Compaction**: Growable fill should be compacted to an appropriate level to provide stability and support for vegetation, while still allowing for root penetration and water infiltration.

**Erosion control**: In some cases, growable fill may be used for slope stabilization or erosion control purposes. Vegetation planted on growable fill can help stabilize slopes, reduce erosion, and enhance the aesthetics of the landscape.

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Class II Sand:

Class II sand typically refers to a specific type of construction sand that meets certain specifications set by regulatory agencies or industry standards.

**Particle size**: Class II sand typically consists of medium to coarse sand particles, with a relatively uniform particle size distribution.

**Cleanliness**: Class II sand is generally free from excessive amounts of organic matter, clay, silt, and other contaminants.

**Compaction**: Class II sand is often used as a base material for projects, such as roadways, sidewalks, and building foundations.

**Drainage**: Class II sand is commonly used for drainage purposes due to its permeable nature and good drainage properties.

**Landscaping**: In landscaping applications, Class II sand may be used as a leveling or bedding material for paving stones, concrete slabs, and landscape features.

 

2NS:

"2NS sand" is a term commonly used in construction and landscaping, especially in regions where the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) specifications are followed. In this context, "2NS" refers to a specific type of construction sand that meets the requirements outlined by MDOT.

**Particle size**: 2NS sand consists of medium to coarse sand particles.

**Cleanliness**: 2NS sand is typically clean and free from excessive amounts of organic matter, clay, silt, and other contaminants.

**Compaction**: 2NS sand is commonly used as a base material for construction projects such as roads, driveways, and building foundations.

**Drainage**: Similar to other types of construction sand, 2NS sand offers good drainage properties, allowing water to pass through freely.

**Landscaping**: In landscaping applications, 2NS sand may be used as a leveling or bedding material for paving stones, concrete slabs, and landscape features.

 

Cattle Sand:

"Cattle sand" is an unwashed material used in agricultural settings, particularly in cattle farming or horse arenas, to provide a comfortable and hygienic environment for the animals. It is a sand-based bedding material specifically designed for use in barns, pens, and arenas.

**Ease of cleaning**: Cattle sand is easy to maintain and clean compared to other bedding materials such as straw or sawdust. It can be raked or stirred regularly to remove soiled areas and keep the bedding surface clean.

**Heat retention**: Sand has thermal properties that help regulate temperature and provide insulation in cold weather.

 

Mason Sand:

"Mason sand" is a type of fine sand that is commonly used in masonry and construction projects. It is also known as "brick sand" or "play sand" in some regions.

**Particle Size**: Mason sand consists of fine sand particles, typically ranging in size from 0.075 to 0.425 millimeters. It has a finer texture compared to coarser sands, such as concrete sand or asphalt sand.

**Cleanliness**: Mason sand is usually clean and free from organic matter, clay, silt, and other contaminants.

**Workability**: Mason sand has excellent workability and is easy to handle and spread.

**Landscaping**: In addition to its use in masonry and construction, mason sand is sometimes used in landscaping projects.

 

Paver Base & Limestone

6A Limestone:

**Particle Size**: 6A limestone consists of crushed limestone particles that are approximately 3/4 inch (19 millimeters) in size. It is sometimes also referred to as "3/4-inch limestone" or "#57 limestone." The particles are angular in shape and typically have a mixture of sizes ranging from fine dust to larger pieces.

**Usage**

   - Base material for roads, driveways, and parking lots

   - Base material for building foundations and footings

   - Base material for retaining walls and landscape edging

   - Bedding material for laying pavers, bricks, and concrete blocks

**Compaction**: 6A limestone compacts well and forms a solid base when properly compacted.

**Drainage**: Due to its angular particle shape and varying sizes, 6A limestone provides good drainage properties.

 

21A Limestone w/fines:

21A limestone with fines typically refers to a specific type of crushed limestone aggregate used in construction and landscaping.

21A limestone with fines is commonly used as a base material for roads, driveways, parking lots, and other construction projects where a stable foundation is required.

 

3/8 Limestone with fines:

"3/8 Limestone with fines" refers to a specific type of crushed limestone aggregate with a particle size of 3/8 inch (9.5 millimeters) or smaller, combined with fines.

**Particle Size**: The aggregate consists of crushed limestone particles that are 3/8 inch (9.5 millimeters) or smaller in size. This size range is suitable for various construction and landscaping applications where a smaller aggregate size is desired.

**Usage**

   - Base material for paths, walkways, and patios

   - Base material for driveways and parking areas

   - Base material for retaining walls and landscape edging

   - Backfill material for underground utilities and drainage trenches

**Compaction**: The presence of fines in 3/8 limestone helps to improve compaction and stability when the aggregate is properly compacted.

**Drainage**: While the fines content in 3/8 limestone helps with compaction, it is essential to consider drainage requirements for specific applications. Proper drainage design may be necessary to ensure water runoff and prevent water pooling and erosion.

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Road Gravel:

Road gravel is a type of aggregate material commonly used in road construction and maintenance. It is typically composed of crushed rock, gravel, or a combination of both, and it comes in various sizes and grades depending on the specific requirements of the road project.

**Usage**: Road gravel is used as a base or sub-base material for constructing roads, highways, driveways, parking lots, and other transportation infrastructure.

**Compaction**: Road gravel is compacted to achieve the desired density and stability. Proper compaction ensures that the material forms a solid base that can withstand traffic loads and environmental stresses.

**Durability**: Road gravel is durable and resistant to weathering, abrasion, and deformation under traffic loads.

 

6A Natural Round Stone:

**Shape**: Natural Round Stone refers to stones that have been naturally rounded by the action of water and weathering over time. These stones typically have smooth, rounded edges and irregular shapes, giving them a more natural and organic appearance compared to crushed or angular stone aggregates.

**Usage**

   - Mulch and ground cover in garden beds and landscape areas

   - Decorative accents in garden paths, walkways, and borders

   - Drainage and erosion control in landscaping and storm-water management projects

   - Retaining walls, rock gardens, and landscape features

**Appearance**: The natural rounded shape and varying sizes of the stones give 6A Natural Round Stone a rustic and visually appealing appearance.

 

Crushed Natural w/fines:

**Particle Size**: The aggregate consists of crushed natural stone particles, typically varying in size from small to medium. The addition of fines means that the aggregate includes smaller particles, such as sand or dust, which help fill in gaps between larger stones.

**Usage**:

   - Base material for roads, driveways, and pathways

   - Sub-base material for building foundations and footings

   - Backfill material for underground utilities and trenches

   - Bedding material for laying pavers, bricks, and concrete blocks

   - Surface material for walking paths, trails, and landscaping features

**Compaction**: Crushed natural w/fines compacts well when properly compacted, forming a stable and solid base for construction projects.

**Appearance**: Crushed natural w/fines has a natural appearance that complements various landscaping designs.

 

Crushed Natural w/o fines:

**Particle Size**: The aggregate consists of larger crushed natural stone particles, typically varying in size from small to medium. Without fines, the aggregate does not include smaller particles, such as sand or dust, which are often present in other types of crushed stone aggregates.

**Usage**

   - Base material for roads, driveways, and pathways

   - Sub-base material for building foundations and footings

   - Backfill material for underground utilities and trenches

   - Landscaping features such as decorative rock gardens or retaining walls

**Compaction**: Crushed natural w/o fines can still compact well when properly compacted, forming a stable and solid base for construction projects. However, without fines to fill in gaps between larger particles, achieving proper compaction may require more effort.

**Drainage**: The absence of fines in crushed natural w/o fines may result in better drainage properties compared to aggregates with fines.

**Appearance**: Crushed natural w/o fines has a natural appearance with larger stone particles, which can create a rugged and textured surface.

 

Stone Grit:

Clean, washed, free of clay/silt, permeable paver base.

**Durability**: Gritstone is highly resistant to weathering and erosion, making it a durable and long-lasting material for outdoor use.

**Uses**:

   - Paving and surfacing of roads, pathways, and driveways

   - Construction of retaining walls, boundary walls, and garden features

   - Manufacture of building stones, blocks, and bricks

   - Decorative uses such as garden ornaments, sculptures, and rockeries

 

River Rock:

River rock refers to smooth, rounded stones that are naturally tumbled and shaped by the action of water in rivers and streams. These rocks are typically found along riverbeds, shores, and other water bodies where they are eroded, polished, and transported by the flow of water over time.

**Appearance**: River rocks come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, depending on their geological origin and the type of rock they are made of.

**Texture**: River rocks have a smooth, polished texture that results from the erosion and abrasion caused by water movement over time.

**Size**: River rocks come in a range of sizes, from 2.5” – 3.5.

**Uses**

   - Ground cover and mulching in gardens, flower beds, and landscape areas

   - Dry riverbeds and water features to simulate the appearance of natural streams and watercourses

   - Pathways, walkways, and steppingstones for foot traffic

   - Retaining walls, edging, and border accents in garden beds and landscape features

   - Aqua-scaping in aquariums, ponds, and water gardens

**Durability**: River rocks are naturally durable and resistant to weathering, making them suitable for outdoor use in various climates.

 

Pea Gravel:

Pea gravel is a type of small, rounded gravel commonly used in landscaping and construction projects.

**Texture**: Pea gravel has a smooth, rounded texture that results from the natural erosion and weathering of rock over time.

**Uses**

   - Pathways and walkways

   - Ground cover

   - Decorative features

   - Drainage

 

3/8-1/2” Clear Natural, Crushed:

**Size**: The aggregate consists of stones that range in size from approximately 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch in diameter.

**Appearance** Clear natural aggregates typically have a natural appearance, with stones that may vary in color, shape, and texture depending on their geological origin.

**Uses**

  - Base material for pathways, walkways, and patios

  - Surface material for driveways, parking areas, and gravel roads

  - Drainage aggregate for French drains, trench drains, and stormwater management systems

  - Decorative landscaping features such as garden borders, rock gardens, and dry riverbeds

 

Asphalt Millings:

Asphalt millings are recycled asphalt pavement that has been crushed into a fine aggregate material.

**Uses**

   - Base material for new asphalt pavement

   - Driveway and parking lot surfacing

   - Dust control and erosion control

   - Fill material and landscaping