Aggregates & Cement

With any material exposed to the elements, concrete is susceptible to damage over time. Cracks, crumbling and erosion can occur because of factors like weather, ground movement and improper installation. Performing timely repairs is essential for maintaining structural integrity and preventing further deterioration.   This article provides practical guidance on repairing common defects using mortar and […]

As environmental concerns around climate change continue to mount, the building industry is increasingly looking for ways to balance structural integrity with more eco-friendly practices when working with concrete and its composite materials like cement and lime mortar.  In this article, we look at new ways to make concrete construction more environmentally friendly without compromising […]

Mortar is an important building material used in masonry construction. Yet mixing it properly is an art that takes years of experience to master. Masons need the correct mortar mix for strong structures and good-looking jobs like garden paving or brick walls. This article explores mixing and provides tips for achieving optimal workability, bond strength […]

A popular range of cement used across the UK, Blue Circle offers standard products alongside a specialist range intended for quick setting, extra strength, or visual uses. In this guide from Building Materials Nationwide, we’ll look through the product range of Blue Circle cement and answer some popular questions about mixing quantities, drying times, and […]

Pea gravel is a popular choice for landscaping and gardening work, with a multi-coloured look and smooth rounded shapes. Whether building a landscaping feature, making a driveway, or laying paving slabs, pea gravel is an attractive and easy-to-use product. In this guide from Building Materials Nationwide, we’ll explain the origins of pea gravel, the types […]

Gravel is used in both construction and landscaping, offering aesthetic and practical benefits. Whether you are looking to make strong concrete, build a garden path, or create a sleek driveway, there will be a gravel option for you. In this guide to gravel from Building Materials Nationwide, we’ll summarise the world of gravel, looking at […]

For thousands of years, cement has formed the core of decorative and architectural design across the world and is an essential ingredient in both concrete and mortar. Over time, the mineral makeup has been adjusted and improved until the mixture reaches the modern-day cement we use today. White cement is a specific blend of limestone, clay, and […]

A combination aggregate commonly used within the production of concrete, ballast sand is one of the key building materials in the modern world, used for everything from pathways to skyscrapers. In this quick guide from Building Materials Nationwide, we’ll explain what ballast sand consists of, the cost and size of ballast sand bulk bags, and […]

Cement has been an essential component of buildings for thousands of years, from the Colosseum of Rome to modern skyscrapers. A fine binding powder, it is used within both concrete and mortar, both of which will be used in the production of almost every type of building. In this overview from Building Materials Nationwide, we’ll […]