Comparing 10 and 20mm Shingle

Understanding the Differences Between 10mm and 20mm Shingle 

When planning any construction or landscaping project, choosing the right type of aggregate can make a significant impact on the final outcome. Shingle, also known as gravel or crushed stone, comes in various sizes, each suited to specific applications. Two popular choices are 10mm and 20mm shingle. Let’s explore the main differences between these two sizes and how each can be best used in your projects. 

 

Size and Appearance 

The first obvious difference is the size, 10mm being smaller, rounder and more uniform, giving a neat consistent appearance. Whereas the 20mm is double in size, chunkier, more rugged and has a less uniform appearance. 

 

Applications and Suitability 

10mm shingle is particularly suited for delicate, decorative applications and it’s a popular choice for: 

Garden Pathways – They provide a stable, easy-to-walk-on surface. 

Driveways – When used for light traffic driveways, they create a sleek, modern look. 

Flower Beds and Borders – Often used to add aesthetic appeal, they can cover soil and suppress weeds. 

Pipe Bedding – Small, even gravel provides effective support and drainage around pipes. 

 

20mm shingle is more robust, making them ideal for: 

Driveways and Parking Areas – Especially for areas with heavier vehicles, 20mm shingle provides a more durable surface. 

Drainage – The larger gaps between stones make this size better suited for drainage projects. 

Ground Cover for Landscaping – Adds a strong, visual presence and covers larger areas efficiently. 

Base Layer for Foundations – Often used as a solid foundation layer under pavers or concrete. 

 

Drainage Efficiency 

With smaller 10mm stones they create closer packing, which can restrict water flow, but still allows for some drainage. This can be beneficial in areas that need moderate water absorption. 

With the larger 20mm stones these provide more air gaps, 20mm shingle provides superior drainage, making it ideal for areas that experience high rainfall or where water runoff is a concern. 

 

Cost Implications 

The cost of 10mm and 20mm shingle often varies based on location and supplier. Generally, because of the extra processing involved in creating a finer gravel size, 10mm shingle might be slightly more expensive per ton compared to 20mm. However, the cost difference is usually minimal and often doesn’t heavily impact the project budget. 

 

Maintenance 

10mm Shingle: Smaller shingle can be more prone to displacement, especially if walked on or driven over frequently. They may require periodic raking or topping up to maintain an even surface. 

20mm Shingle: With more weight per stone, 20mm shingle are less likely to be disturbed by foot or vehicle traffic, which means less frequent maintenance. 

Environmental Considerations 

Using larger shingle like 20mm can contribute to better soil and water management. Having larger air spaces between stones can help soil breathe, allowing plants to grow more healthily nearby. Additionally, larger shingle often prevents soil erosion better than smaller ones, making them a good choice for areas with loose or sandy soil. 

 

Final Thoughts 

Both 10mm and 20mm shingle have unique advantages and specific use cases, and the best option depends on the nature of your project. If you’re looking for a clean, decorative finish, go for 10mm. If your project involves heavy-duty usage or needs excellent drainage, 20mm shingle is the way to go. By understanding these differences, you’ll be better equipped to make the best choice for a durable, functional, and visually appealing result.