When to Use MOT Type 1 for Your Subbase Layer
When you’re working on a construction or landscaping project, the subbase layer (or the foundational layer) needs to be solid. While the surface finish is often prioritised, what’s underneath matters just as much, if not more.
That’s where MOT Type 1 subbase comes in. These crushed aggregates are one of the most used subbase materials across the UK. They’re often used in roadwork, driveways, patios, and other places that need a stable foundation.
That said, as with other subbases, MOT Type 1 might not be the best fit for every job. Each project has its own set of requirements, so it’s worth knowing when an MOT Type 1 subbase is the right aggregate for the job.
If you’re wondering whether this type of subbase aggregate is right for your project, the answer is: it depends on the project in question. In this blog post, we’ll explore 3 situations where an MOT Type 1 subbase might be a smarter choice.
1. A Strong Load-Bearing Base is Required
Some builds need more than just surface strength. They may need the base to carry heavy foot traffic and weights, such as vehicles and machinery. When the load requirements are high, your foundation needs to hold up without shifting or sinking.
MOT Type 1 subbase is made up of crushed aggregates, such as granite, limestone, basalt, and concrete. These aggregates are mixed with fine particles and form a combination that makes them compact tightly.
This results in a solid base that spreads the load evenly across the surface. It doesn’t deteriorate after a few months, making it ideal for heavy-weight applications like driveways or parking lots.
2. Drainage Isn’t a Primary Concern
MOT Type 1 subbase is not the most permeable option. While it does allow water to go through its material, it’s primarily built to be solid, not porous. Its mix includes fine materials, which help with compaction but limit water flow.
If your project doesn’t rely on fast drainage, MOT Type 1 works well as a subbase layer. For instance, some driveways and gardens don’t need faster water runoff as long as the water doesn’t pool.
In settings where natural infiltration can be sufficient for keeping the surface well-drained, MOT Type 1 aggregates are a great option. They create a tight seal that holds firm, and surface water can still be managed by proper slope or nearby drainage channels.
3. Projects Requiring Good Compaction and Stability
One of the key reasons for using a high-quality subbase layer is to create a strong, level platform that’ll stay put.
Once laid, MOT Type 1 aggregates compact tightly and form a solid subbase layer that won’t move or shift easily. This makes them a great choice for garden paths, patios, and other areas where uneven ground might be a problem.
By filling in small gaps and reducing movement underneath, MOT Type 1 materials help the surface stay in place over time.
Additionally, the MOT Type 1 specification helps you comply with government regulations, so for projects requiring regulation-friendly materials, it’s a material that ticks all the boxes.
Contact Middleton Aggregates for MOT Type 1 Subbase Aggregates
Choosing the right subbase material can make a big difference to the outcome of your project. MOT Type 1 subbases are a trusted option for businesses looking for a solid, dependable base layer at reasonable prices.
Now that you know when to use MOT Type 1, you may be looking for a supplier to provide you with crushed aggregates for your next project. You can count on Middleton Aggregates for the best quality aggregates.
We supply a wide range of durable aggregates and fill materials for various construction and landscaping projects. We also offer a plant hire service to meet all your construction needs.
Operating from Blackborough End, King’s Lynn, we serve Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, and the wider UK. Our team of industry experts is on hand to provide you with the best advice and answer your questions.
For more information on our products and services, visit our website or contact us to find out more.
