Origin of Gravel
Natural gravel originates from beaches or banks of rivers that have not turned into solid rock. For example, ancient beaches such as from the Jurassic Era are dug up in quarries.
This material is sifted into different groups based on the size of the rock. Then, it is sold to companies for use in building, landscaping, etc.
Most natural gravel or sand is made of silica which is very durable.
Crushed into granite or limestone pieces, some gravel materials are originally hard rock.
What Size?
Gravel is rock particles larger than 1/12 of an inch and no more that 2.5 in. Small particles are made of granules while larger ones are referred to as pebbles. Any particles smaller that 1/12 of an inch are considered to be sand and larger particles are cobbles.
The most common sizes used is 2.5 inches and 1 inch.
Uses
Popular uses include cement, tarmac and road surfaces. Mixtures of sand and gravel with other various crushed materials are called aggregate. These mixtures are usually used for drainage.
Decorative purposes include usage in landscaping, railroads, driveways and walkways. It needs maintenance, both as paved and unpaved roads, in order to control dust, extend lifespan, and to make sure that operations stay in top shape.
Throughout the U.S., there are more than a million miles of unpaved road, most of which is made with some form of gravel. That’s why it is such is an important part of the infrastructure of modern society as it is used in building of all kinds.
Purchasing
Many construction companies contact Meza Trucking LLC when in need of any sized aggregate because they know that they will receive the correct type and size of rock product they need, and they know that Meza Trucking will deliver on time with reliability.