Outdoor Modernizer With Benefits
By Ben Parrot - Landscape Gardener & Amateur Geologist
Classification:
Slate landscaping material and construction aggregate
Geological name(s):
Metamorphic rock
Other Name(s):
Graphite grey slate chippings, grey blue slate chippings, blue grey slate chippings, slate chippings grey, gray slate chippings
Overview
Grey slate chippings are a versatile, economical and elegant choice for a variety of decorative and functional outdoor applications. Also known as graphite grey slate chippings, they are a natural coloured aggregate that turns a striking darker charcoal hue when wet. Grey chippings' unique charm and popularity stem from their natural beauty, durability and the elegance they add to any space.
This encyclopaedia entry offers comprehensive information about the key specifications, advantages, and multifaceted uses of grey slate decorative chippings as a landscaping and construction aggregate. Alongside technical details, the page links to resources on design fundamentals, inspiring ideas, and practical 'how to' guides for DIY projects, from how to make a grey slate chippings driveway to a multitude of others involving grey slate chippings.
Specifications
material | colour | shape | sizes | fall safety | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Stone | 10-60mm |
durability | fish friendly | eco friendly | degradability | ph | diy friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Non-degradable | Neutral |
Material
Naturally quarried slate
Colour
Grey to light grey with hints of white quartz
Shape
Flat
Size Range
20-40mm (0.8-1.6 inches)
10mm grey slate chippings, 20mm grey slate chippings, 40mm grey slate chippings, grey slate chippings 40mm
Fall Safety
Unsuitable for play surfaces
Price
Economical
Durability
High
Fish Friendly
Yes
Eco-friendly
Recycled
Degradability
Non-degradable
pH
Neutral
DIY-Friendly
Yes
Benefits
Decorative aggregates like grey slate chippings offer numerous benefits for gardening and landscaping. They are a low-maintenance option for a ground cover that acts as a weed suppressant and provides a clean, consistent look to outdoor spaces. These aggregates are also effective in moisture retention for soil and plant roots, and their durability ensures longevity with minimal upkeep.
Grey slate chippings are valued for their elegant and subtle colour variations, which range from light grey to dark grey, also offering the occasional hint of white quartz. This versatility makes them ideal for complementing a wide array of garden designs. They are also pH neutral and offer excellent drainage properties, making them suitable for use in water features and driveways.
Grey Slate Chippings Garden Ideas
Grey slate chippings are popular for mulching borders, as well as most landscaping and gardening projects, due to their attractive appearance and functional properties. They are popular for use in paths, driveways, water features and as a top dressing for plant pots. The slate's natural grey tones beautifully accentuate the greenery and architectural elements in a garden or outdoor space. If used for fish ponds or similar applications, washing the chippings beforehand is recommended to remove any dust or small particles.
In the following section, we list many common graphite grey slate chippings uses, although it is not exhaustive. Wherever there is a hyperlink beside an item, an article from Outdoor Aggregates about the topic is available.
Inspiration and Informational Articles
DIY-Friendly How-To Guides
Other Applications
Some other excellent applications for grey slate chippings include:
Unsuitable For
The following list represents the kinds of applications that grey slate chippings are not suitable for:
- 1Grey slate chippings are unsuitable for french drains.
- 2Play surfaces
- 3Grey slate mini mulch is not suitable for driveways
Similar Alternatives to Grey Slate Chippings
The following is a list of decorative aggregates which are alternatives to grey slate chippings. They may offer you a more suitable variation on the primary colour, a more economical option, or a close substitute for cases where the base material may be unsuitable for the project you are creating, e.g. limestone is not fish-friendly, where slate is.
Name | Colours | Material | Size | Shape | Availability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ebony black pebbles | charcoal grey | basalt | 10-30mm (0.4-1.2") | rounded | UK, USA | |
grey, silver | 10-40mm (0.4-1.6") | flaky, flat | UK, USA, EU | |||
grey, cream | limestone | 6-30mm (0.1-0") | angular | UK, USA, EU | ||
dark grey | basalt | 5-20mm (0.2-0.8") | angular | UK, USA, EU | ||
black, grey | 10-20mm (0.4-0.8") | angular | UK, USA, EU |
Under £80
£80-£120
£120-£150
£150-£200
£200-£300
£300+
Maintenance
Maintaining areas with grey slate chippings is relatively straightforward when a weed control fabric is installed underneath to suppress weeds, with most work limited to raking and the occasional removal of debris. Occasional power washing is advisable to maintain the original colour and prevent algae or moss buildup. Natural quarry materials also may have dust, which should be hosed off with water at the time of installation.
For areas with heavy footfall, such as paths or footpaths, replenishment of chippings may be required over time to maintain depth and coverage. For more on how to clean stone chippings, read our article: how to clean garden stones.
Purchasing Tips
When purchasing grey slate chippings, consider the size and quantity necessary to achieve the right coverage for your project. Slate chippings come available in a range of sizes from mini mulch, ranging from 2-14mm, 20mm, 40mm, 60mm and larger diameter. Also, consider the size you'll need; for instance, grey slate chippings 20mm or larger are typically used for driveways, while smaller 10mm grey slate chippings are better suited to footpaths. Where available, it is cost-effective to request a sample to assess the stone's colour and quality against your design requirements.
Using our gravel calculator to get an unbiased estimate for your project needs is one of the best and easiest ways to get the right amount without the risk of shortfalls or over-spending - all you need is a few measurements of the space. Ordering in bulk bags is often more cost-effective than smaller quantities, which can generally be bought in sizes like Blooma grey slate decorative chippings 20kg bags. Also, always ensure you consider the delivery aspects, especially the vehicle access to the site.
FAQs
How much is a bag of grey slate?
The price of a bag of grey slate chippings varies depending on the quantity and quality. Typically, it is an economical type of landscaping material, but the price can vary considering factors such as size and delivery location. For example, a bulk bag of graphite grey slate chippings 20mm will generally cost less than the same sized bulk bag of graphite grey slate chippings 40mm in diameter.
For precise pricing, it's advisable to check on our website, with local suppliers or their website.
How deep should you lay slate chippings?
Slate chippings should be laid at a depth of about 50mm (2 inches). This depth is sufficient for most purposes like mulching borders, creating pathways, or as ground cover, ensuring effective weed suppression and a neat appearance.
Do you have to wash slate chippings before laying?
It is advisable to wash grey slate chippings before laying them, especially if they are to be used in water features or near fish habitats. Washing removes dust and small particles, enhancing the slate's natural colour and preventing potential harm to aquatic life.
How much does 1 tonne of slate cover?
One tonne of grey slate chippings typically covers about 14 to 20 square metres (150 to 215 square feet) at a depth of 40mm (1.6 inches). This coverage may vary based on the surface's evenness and the specific application.
Do I need membrane under slate chippings?
A weed control fabric or membrane under slate chippings is recommended, especially for pathways, driveways, and borders. This membrane helps prevent weed growth and ensures the chippings remain clean and in place, reducing maintenance efforts.
