100-170mm Snowflake Gabion Stone

100-170mm Snowflake Gabion Stone is a crushed and screened limestone aggregate graded between 100mm and 170mm. The material is commonly referred to as snowflake due to its light grey to off white appearance.

The large particle size provides high mass and stability when placed within gabion baskets. Angular faces interlock to resist movement while allowing controlled water flow through voids.

It is widely used across domestic landscaping, commercial boundary works, and civil engineering projects. Typical uses include retaining walls, riverbank protection, slope stabilisation, and architectural gabion features. It is not fish friendly and should not be used in aquatic projects.

Grading and Classification

This material is graded to a nominal size range of 100mm to 170mm. Oversize and undersize particles are limited through screening to support consistent basket fill.

The grading suits standard gabion basket apertures. It prevents stone loss while maintaining open structure for drainage.

Material Composition

Snowflake gabion stone is typically quarried limestone. The rock is durable, frost resistant, and suitable for long term external exposure.

Natural variation in tone and face texture occurs. This is inherent to quarried limestone products.

Structural Performance

The stone provides mass rather than load bearing strength. Stability is achieved through confinement within gabion baskets and particle interlock.

Its weight resists lateral movement and erosion forces. The open structure reduces hydrostatic pressure behind retaining structures.

• High individual stone mass improves basket stability.

• Angular shape increases internal friction.

• Open voids relieve water pressure.

• Hard limestone resists breakdown under load.

Drainage and Water Interaction

Gabion stone allows free passage of water through the structure. This reduces washout and pressure build up behind walls and embankments.

The low fines content prevents clogging. Long term permeability is maintained when installed correctly.

• Free draining structure reduces retained water.

• Minimal fines limit silting risk.

• Open matrix supports groundwater movement.

• Suitable for fluvial and coastal environments.

Durability and Weathering

Limestone gabion stone is suitable for permanent external use. It performs well under freeze thaw cycles and prolonged wet conditions.

Surface weathering may soften colour over time. Structural integrity remains unaffected.

• Frost resistance supports year round exposure.

• Hard faces resist abrasion from water flow.

• Colour weathers naturally without coating.

• Long service life in retained structures.

Installation Compatibility

The grading is compatible with standard welded mesh and woven gabion baskets. Stone size prevents loss through mesh apertures.

It can be placed by machine or hand depending on project scale. Face placement is often selected for visual consistency.

• Compatible with common gabion mesh sizes.

• Reduced stone escape through basket faces.

• Suitable for hand placed architectural faces.

• Performs in stacked and stepped systems.

Suitability and Usage Limitations

Suitable For

• Gabion retaining walls.

• Erosion and scour protection.

• Riverbank and watercourse works.

• Boundary and landscape structures.

• Noise and visual screening walls.

Not Suitable For

• Concrete production.

• Bound surfacing applications.

• Load bearing sub bases.

• Decorative gravel paths.

• Thin layer applications.

Application Suitability Reference

Trade Supermarket - UK Supply and Hire Platform

Trade Supermarket is a UK-based platform supplying plant hire, aggregates, and building materials for a wide range of project types nationwide. Products and services are structured in line with recognised UK classifications and standard supply and hire practices.

What Sets Trade Supermarket Apart

• Unified Platform Structure: Hire services, aggregates, and building materials are all managed through one unified system instead of separate suppliers.

• Classification-Led Organisation: Products are shown using standard UK grades, categories, and typical use-cases to help buyers choose accurately.

• Defined Supply Scope: The platform focuses on supplying materials and equipment in a clear, straightforward way, without adding design or installation services.

• Use-Case Neutral Positioning: Products are suitable for home, commercial, and large-scale projects without assuming a specific type of customer.

• Consistent Operational Standards: All product categories follow clear, uniform processes to ensure a steady and reliable experience every time.

Supply and Delivery Responsibility

• Material Variation: Aggregates are natural or recycled materials and variation in colour, shape, and composition can occur between sources and deliveries.

• Quantity and Coverage: Materials are supplied by weight or volume as ordered. Coverage, yield, and performance are influenced by application method and ground conditions.

• Delivery and Site Access: Delivery requires suitable access for the selected vehicle type. Clear access, adequate space, and stable ground conditions must be available at the delivery location.

• Offloading Conditions: Materials are offloaded at ground level only. Placement, spreading, or installation services are not included as part of supply.

• Returns and Surplus Material: Bulk aggregates are non-returnable once delivered. Customers should ensure quantities are calculated accurately before placing an order.

• Supply Scope: Supply is limited to the provision of materials only. Product selection, suitability assessment, and installation remain the responsibility of the buyer or appointed contractor.