Clitheroe
Shap
Horwich, Bolton
Chorley
Horwich, Bolton
Clitheroe
Shap
Horwich, Bolton
Chorley
Horwich, Bolton
Crusher run is a versatile and cost-effective aggregate made by blending crushed stone with stone dust and fine particles.
Known for its excellent compaction properties, crusher run gravel forms a stable, solid base ideal for a wide range of construction and landscaping applications.
It’s most commonly used beneath roads, paths, driveways, and other high-traffic surfaces where ground stability is essential. By locking together tightly when compacted, crusher run aggregate creates a strong foundation that supports overlying materials like tarmac, paving slabs, or decorative gravel.
At Armstrongs, we produce and supply high-quality sub-base materials from our quarries across the North West.
Our crusher run is made using durable stone types like pink shap, granite, and sandstone, each known for strength, performance, and consistency in demanding applications.
Crusher run gravel is a well-graded mix of crushed stone, typically ranging from 20mm pieces down to fine dust. This combination of larger particles and fines gives it a dense, granular structure that compacts exceptionally well under pressure. The fine content fills the gaps between the stones, helping the material lock together and stay in place once compressed.
Sometimes referred to as crush and run gravel, this material is ideal where a firm, load-bearing base is required. Its self-compacting nature makes it especially useful for construction applications where long-term ground stability is crucial.
At Armstrongs, crusher run is produced in-house at our network of active quarries. The process begins by extracting large stone blocks from our reserves of pink shap, granite, or sandstone – all known for their strength and durability.
These materials are then fed through heavy-duty crushers, which break the stone down into smaller, angular fragments. After initial crushing, the material is screened to ensure it meets the correct gradation.
The result is a well-balanced crusher run aggregate, ready for immediate use in driveways, roads, and more.
Our commitment to quality control throughout the crushing and screening process means every load of crusher run we supply meets the performance standards required by contractors, builders, and homeowners alike.
One of the most popular uses for crusher run gravel is as a base layer for driveways and footpaths. Its ability to compact tightly into a solid surface makes it ideal for supporting asphalt, concrete, or gravel toppings. The result is a smooth, long-lasting base that resists shifting, rutting, and water infiltration.
For driveways, a layer of crusher run is typically installed to a depth of 75mm to 150mm, depending on traffic levels and soil conditions. It can be used as the primary sub-base or as a binding layer beneath decorative finishes. Its low-maintenance nature makes it a go-to option for homeowners looking for both performance and value.
Crusher run plays a critical role in the construction of roads, especially in areas where fully engineered solutions aren’t practical or cost-effective. As a road base, it provides a compact, stable platform for road surfacing materials, helping to spread loads evenly and prevent subsidence over time.
It’s commonly used in rural or agricultural road construction, private lanes, farm access tracks, and car parks where heavy loads and variable weather conditions demand a reliable foundation. With its combination of durability and ease of installation, crusher run aggregate is a proven performer for long-lasting road infrastructure.
Beyond roads and driveways, crush and run gravel is widely used in landscaping and foundational settings. It provides an ideal base under patios, garden paths, shed foundations, and retaining walls. Essentially anywhere a flat, stable surface is needed.
By laying a compacted layer of crusher run, homeowners and contractors can prevent sinking, shifting, or frost heave over time. Its affordability and ease of compaction also make it a popular choice for hardstanding areas around commercial and agricultural buildings.
MOT Type 1 sub-base is a crushed aggregate material that meets the strict specifications set out by the Ministry of Transport for use beneath roads, paths, and highways.
It’s made up of a mix of crushed stone and fines, typically graded from 40mm down to dust, and is designed to offer maximum strength and stability once compacted.
Because MOT Type 1 is a certified product, it must pass certain quality checks, particularly around grading and compaction performance. This makes it a go-to material for projects where compliance with highways regulations is essential, such as public roadways or council-approved developments.
At a glance, crusher run and MOT Type 1 sub-base might look quite similar. Both are blends of crushed stone and fines that compact well and are commonly used as sub-base layers.
However, there are a few key differences worth understanding before you decide which is right for your project.
The main distinction is that MOT Type 1 is a certified material, whereas crusher run is typically uncertified but still made to a high standard. That certification comes with tighter grading controls, making MOT Type 1 ideal for projects where building regulations or highway specs must be met.
In terms of drainage, MOT Type 1 often performs slightly better thanks to its uniform grading. However, crusher run aggregate tends to be more cost-effective and still delivers excellent compaction and stability for domestic or private projects, such as driveways, garden paths, and private access roads.
If you're working on a project where certification isn't required, crusher run may offer a more economical solution without compromising performance. It's particularly well-suited to homeowners, small contractors, or anyone looking to get reliable results without overspending.
The performance of crusher run relies heavily on the quality of the stone it’s made from. Poorly graded or inconsistent materials can lead to weak spots, uneven compaction, or drainage issues.
At Armstrongs, we take pride in producing crusher run aggregate from high-quality sources like pink shap, granite, and sandstone—materials known for their strength and reliability.
Our quarries operate with strict quality control processes, ensuring every load of crusher run or MOT Type 1 sub-base is consistent in size, compaction behaviour, and moisture resistance.
Using locally sourced aggregates isn’t just good for your budget, it’s also better for the environment.
By supplying crusher run and MOT Type 1 sub-base directly from our quarries across the North West, Armstrongs helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transport.
Our regional network means we can offer fast, efficient deliveries while supporting sustainable construction practices.
Armstrongs operates quarries across the North West, supplying a full range of construction aggregates, including crusher run, MOT Type 1 sub-base, and other essential materials for roads, driveways, and groundwork.
We offer a 40mm crusher run, which is perfect for low void sub base material thanks to the combination of crushed rock and stone dust.
We also sell a 75mm crusher run, ideal for back fill/trench fill sub base.
We can deliver bulk loads directly to site or arrange collection from your nearest quarry. From crusher run road base to decorative stone and beyond, we’ve got everything you need to build with confidence.
Crusher run is a versatile aggregate used as a sub-base material beneath roads, driveways, patios, and paths. Its mix of crushed stone and fines compacts well to form a stable, solid surface, making it ideal for groundworks, landscaping, and general construction.
No, although similar in appearance and function, crusher run and MOT Type 1 are not the same. MOT Type 1 is a certified sub-base material that meets government specifications, whereas crusher run is often uncertified but still widely used in domestic and light commercial applications. Both compact well, but MOT Type 1 is typically required for highway or council-approved projects.
The recommended depth for a crusher run driveway depends on usage. For light domestic vehicles, a depth of around 100mm to 150mm is often sufficient. For heavier use or poor ground conditions, a thicker layer (up to 200mm) may be necessary. Always ensure good compaction in layers for best results.
Crusher run offers moderate drainage but is not as free-draining as larger, clean stone. Because it contains fines (stone dust), it compacts into a semi-solid surface. This helps with stability but can restrict water flow. For better drainage, a free-draining layer beneath the crusher run may be recommended.
In many cases, “crush and run gravel” is simply another name for crusher run. Both refer to a blend of crushed stone and stone dust that compacts well to create a solid base layer. Terminology can vary regionally, but the material is essentially the same.
Yes, crusher run is often used beneath block paving and slabs as a compacted sub-base. It creates a firm, stable platform that helps prevent shifting and settling. However, for paved areas requiring building regulation compliance, MOT Type 1 sub-base is often preferred.
At Armstrongs, we supply crusher run aggregate in bulk, either loose-tipped or in larger bags depending on the scale of your project. We deliver directly to sites across the North West, with flexible options to suit trade or domestic needs.
Crusher run typically consists of a mix of stone sizes from around 40mm down to fines (dust). This blend ensures good compaction, with smaller particles filling the gaps between larger stones to form a dense base.
Yes, crusher run is a popular choice for garden paths, shed bases, and patios. It compacts into a hard-wearing surface that resists movement, making it ideal for areas where stability is important. Just be sure to level and compact properly before laying slabs or decorative finishes.
To calculate how much crusher run you’ll need, measure the area (length × width × depth), convert to cubic metres, and allow for compaction. If you’re unsure, Armstrongs' team can help estimate your required volume based on your project specs
Made by Statuo
