the MOT Type 1 Coverage Calculator

The MOT Type 1 coverage calculator is a valuable tool designed to help you determine the quantity of MOT Type 1 aggregate required for your construction project. To use the calculator effectively, you need to calculate the amount of material needed, making sure to ensure that you account for your specific intended use of the surface. Different depths are important here; for example, patios and footpaths typically require a depth of 50mm, while driveways usually need 100mm. Heavier use areas like roads might require a layer of 150mm+.

To get started, simply select "Type 1 MOT" as your material and input the required dimensions in meters. The calculator will display the amount you need in both cubic meters and tons, making it easy to know exactly how much to order. A helpful tip is to convert measurements from millimetres to meters; for instance, 100 mm equals 0.1 m. Additionally, it’s a good idea to recommend ordering an extra 5–10% of material to account for any compaction or variation during installation.

MOT Type 1 Aggregate

In the building sector, the MOT Type 1 aggregate is a highly versatile material that plays a crucial role in various construction projects. When preparing for large undertakings, it’s essential to have a solid foundation. This aggregate is designed to fill irregularities in excavations, ensuring a firm, level working base that can easily accommodate heavy surfaces like stone or concrete.

For the domestic market, this aggregate is perfect for a wide range of DIY projects. Whether you're laying down sub-base material for driveways, patios, or even sheds, we can supply you with the right materials in bulk. Our diverse selection of MOT Type 1 aggregate and recycled hardcore aggregates are competitively priced to fit your budget, while still meeting the demands of various applications. Rest assured, you’ll be getting an essential product that is perfectly suited to your needs.

Providing reliable and effective materials has always been our top priority. We focus on making sure that our aggregates support the infrastructure projects while making the process smooth for anyone tackling construction uses at home.

Composition of MOT Type 1 Aggregate

MOT Type 1 is a high-quality sub-base material that is commonly used in construction and civil engineering projects. This aggregate is typically made from a carefully blended mixture of aggregates derived from three main sources: granite, limestone, and clean crushed concrete. Each of these materials plays a vital role in creating a robust product.

Granite is known for its durability and strength, which provides excellent load-bearing properties. This helps ensure that the aggregate can handle weight without compromising its integrity. Limestone is another important component, valued for its smooth texture and natural binding capabilities that enhance the overall stability of the mixture. Finally, clean crushed concrete, often recycled, adds an eco-friendly aspect while retaining good compaction qualities.These aggregates are processed to a maximum size of 40mm, resulting in a well-graded product that not only optimises compaction but also achieves substantial load-bearing strengths. The dust generated during the crushing process helps to fill voids in larger aggregates, ensuring a dense and stable base that can support various applications.

Applications of MOT Type 1 Aggregate


MOT Type 1 is an essential material that is especially useful in many applications requiring a certified sub-base. This aggregate is ideal for projects needing a strong and stable foundation. Commonly, you will find it used in highways, car parks, footpaths, and driveways. Its ability to withstand heavy loads makes it a favorite among builders and contractors.

At Bullimores Sand & Gravel, we are a leading supplier of MOT Type 1 aggregates, offering bulk supply by the tonne. We maintain a minimum order requirement of 4 tonnes to cater to various construction scenarios. Our extensive network of quarries and dedicated fleet of lorries ensure that we can deliver the level of service our customers expect. This allows us to provide the exceptional properties of MOT Type 1 to meet specific project requirements, making it a reliable choice for anyone in need of durable building materials.

Frequently asked questions

What is MOT Type 1?

MOT Type 1 is a type of sub-base material that plays an important role in various construction projects. It is primarily composed of crushed stone, which can include materials such as granite, basalt, gritstone, or carboniferous limestone. The specific type of stone used may vary, depending on the source of the aggregate.

The size of MOT Type 1 typically ranges from 40mm down to very fine dust particles. This variety in size helps ensure proper compaction and stability when it's used as a base for driveways, roads, and other surfaces. Having a quality aggregate like MOT Type 1 can make a significant difference in the durability of the structures built on top of it.

Is MOT Type 1 suitable for driveway sub-bases?

MOT Type 1 is an excellent choice for driveway sub-bases, especially when the final surface is made of gravel or tarmac. This material provides a strong and stable base, ensuring that your driveway can handle the pressure of vehicles and maintain its appearance over time.

However, if you are considering a block-paved driveway, you might need a different option. In this case, a more permeable sub-base, such as MOT Type 3, may be necessary to help meet the requirements of the Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) regulations. This option allows for better water drainage and helps prevent flooding, making it a crucial choice for certain installations.

What Are the Specifications for MOT Type 1?

MOT Type 1 is a specific product that is produced in accordance with the Specification for Highways Works Clause 803. This ensures that every batch of the material meets high-quality standards, making it suitable for various construction projects. The design of MOT Type 1 is carefully crafted to withstand challenging conditions, including frost heave. This property is crucial for maintaining the stability and durability of surfaces, especially in colder climates.

By adhering to these rigorous specifications, MOT Type 1 provides a consistent solution for builders and contractors. It allows for reliable performances in applications such as driveways, roads, and other heavy-use areas. Having materials that meet these specifications gives you confidence in the performance and longevity of your projects.

How Do I Calculate the Quantity of MOT Type 1 Required?

To find out how much MOT Type 1 you need for your project, it's important to know the correct depth for your sub-bases. For driveways intended for car traffic, MOT Type 1 should be applied at a depth of 150mm. If you expect heavier loads, this may necessitate a deeper base, which could require calculations by a structural engineer. For other surfaces, a depth of 75mm is generally suitable for footpaths, while patios should be 100mm deep.

To make this easier, we recommend using our aggregate calculator on this page. First, select “Type 1 MOT” and then enter your measurements in meters for length and width, and in millimetres for depth. This will help you calculate the quantity of MOT Type 1 that your project requires, ensuring you order the right amount for the job.

How Do I Install MOT Type 1?

To install MOT Type 1 effectively, you should start by evenly spreading the material using a shovel. This step is crucial for laying the groundwork for your project. After spreading the material, compacting it in layers is next. You can do this by using a vibrating roller or a whacker plate. This process is essential to ensure a stable surface that will prevent any future settling.

For optimal results, aim for the recommended installation depths: 150mm for driveways, 75mm for paths, and 100mm for patios. This method will help you create a durable and long-lasting foundation. If you need assistance, Bullimores Plant Hire offers the necessary equipment to help you achieve a professional finish for your project.

Is MOT Type 1 Free Draining?

MOT Type 1 is a material that does facilitate water passage, but it does so at a slower rate when compared to other products, such as MOT Type 3. This means that while MOT Type 1 can allow some water to flow through, it is not as effective at quickly draining water away. This characteristic can be important depending on what you plan to use it for.

If you are looking for a drainage solution for areas with high water flow needs, you might consider using other products like MOT Type 3, which have better drainage properties. However, if your project involves driveways or surfaces where moderate drainage is acceptable, MOT Type 1 can still be a suitable choice, providing a solid foundation while adequately managing water flow.