Limestone Ultiflow (SuDS)

Limestone Ultiflow is produced from natural quarried limestone. It is crushed and screened to an open-graded structure with minimal fines to maximise permeability.

The aggregate forms a stable yet free-draining matrix. Large interconnected voids allow rapid water flow while angular particles provide load distribution and resistance to movement.

It is used across domestic, commercial, and civil engineering works. Typical uses include soakaways, drainage trenches, permeable build-ups, and foundation drainage layers.

Why is it known as Ultiflow?

The term Ultiflow is used to describe an aggregate designed for very high water flow performance. It refers to an open-graded structure that allows water to move freely through the material with minimal restriction.

The name reflects the material’s function rather than a specific brand. Ultiflow aggregates are characterised by low fines content and large interconnected voids, which maximise drainage capacity in applications such as soakaways, permeable construction, and sustainable drainage systems.

Key characteristics associated with Ultiflow aggregates

• Open-graded structure promotes rapid water movement.

• Minimal fines reduce clogging and maintain permeability.

• High void content supports water storage and dispersal.

• Used where drainage performance is prioritised over compaction.

Drainage Function and Material Context

Drainage aggregates are used to manage surface and groundwater movement. Open-graded materials reduce water pressure build-up and protect surrounding structures.

Limestone Ultiflow is selected where rapid drainage is required. Its low fines content prevents clogging and maintains long-term permeability.

Material selection depends on drainage design, depth of installation, and imposed loads above the drainage layer.

Grading and Material Classification

This product is supplied as an open-graded limestone aggregate. The grading prioritises void space rather than close compaction.
It is suitable for applications requiring free drainage rather than structural surfacing.

• Open-graded structure supports rapid water flow.

• Minimal fines reduce silting risk.

• Quarried limestone provides consistent durability.

Compaction and Structural Behaviour

Limestone Ultiflow is not designed to compact densely. It settles to form a stable, interlocked structure while retaining voids.
Load is distributed through particle contact rather than bound compaction.

• Angular particles resist lateral movement.

• Void retention maintains drainage performance.

• Stable under overlying layers when designed correctly.

Drainage and Water Interaction

This aggregate allows unrestricted water movement through the layer. It supports groundwater dispersal and drainage continuity.
Performance remains consistent when protected from fines ingress.

• High permeability reduces standing water.

• Open matrix supports soakaway efficiency.

• Suitable for long-term drainage installations.

How It Compares to Standard Limestone Aggregates

Standard limestone aggregates prioritise compaction and load support. Limestone Ultiflow prioritises drainage capacity.
Selection depends on whether structural density or water movement is required.

• Ultiflow provides higher permeability than 20mm limestone.

• Standard limestone provides tighter compaction.

• Ultiflow is not intended as a wearing surface.

Suitability and Usage Limitations

Suitable For

• Soakaways and attenuation systems.

• Foundation and perimeter drainage.

• French drains and trench drainage.

• Permeable paving sub-layers.

• Groundwater management layers.

Not Suitable For

• Structural sub-bases requiring dense compaction.

• Concrete production.

• Pipe bedding requiring close particle contact.

• Decorative surface finishes.

• Areas exposed without a protective overlayer.

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 supplied through a single operational framework rather than separate merchant systems.

• Classification-Led Organisation: Products are presented using recognised UK grading, classification, and typical use categories to support correct selection.

• Defined Supply Scope: The platform focuses on material supply and equipment hire only, with design, specification, and installation remaining outside the scope of service.

• Use-Case Neutral Positioning: Products support domestic, commercial, and infrastructure projects without retail-led assumptions.

• Consistent Operational Standards: The same structural and procedural standards are applied across all product categories.

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.