Using Crusher Dust in Your Construction Project

With a full line of gravel and pit run to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which material to use for your next project. One popular option we enjoy recommending is crusher dust. In this article, we’ll go through exactly what crusher dust is and when it makes sense to use it.

What is Crusher Dust?

Crusher dust, also known as blue metal, cracker, or rock dust, is simply the material leftover when making crushed rock. As rocks are run through the crusher, tiny pieces and dust particles are left behind. Instead of being thrown out as waste material, the dust is recycled and becomes a valuable product with many practical applications in both commercial construction and home projects.

Rock dust is a combination of small, gritty pieces of rock and dust, though it typically has more dust than gritty pieces. Just be aware that it’s a natural product, so you often see different sizes, shapes, and colours in the material.

The Benefits of Rock Dust

By nature of the product, crusher dust is easy to work with, spread, and level out. As the material settles, the dust and smaller pieces fill the gaps between larger pieces of stone, creating a smooth and compact surface. The material is tightly packed, which means there is no shifting, no moving, and no potholes developing over time.

When used around landscaping, rock dust is beneficial because it contains many minerals that are not water-soluble. Nearby plants and trees can easily absorb these minerals. When paired with artificial grass, it also allows for aerating and creates a good drainage system, keeping the artificial grass from being flooded.

Artificial grass and gravel walkway.
Crusher dust creates a good drainage system for artificial grass and looks great as a decorative feature.

Usage of Crusher Rocks

Since crusher dust is easy to work with and has many benefits, there are plenty of applications for it in your construction or home building projects. It’s an ideal layer under artificial grass but looks great as a decorative feature in landscaping too. Rock dust is also a good option for driveways and walkways.

Crusher dust works well as a base layer under concrete slabs, water tanks, piping, and anything that will be paved or covered over, including pavers and retaining walls. If the next project you’re planning requires a compact filler, this material could be the perfect solution.

Brick driveway on top of rock dust.
Rock dust can also be used as a foundation for laying things such as concrete slabs and bricks.

Rock Dust Costs Less

Producing rock dust is more affordable than other materials which means it doesn’t cost as much for you to purchase. It’s a cost-effective material for filling and packing in different parts of your project.

Crusher dust also costs less to the environment since it’s being recycled instead of discarded. It prevents minerals from leaching into any nearby soil and reduces waterlogging. Essentially, rock dust is a win for everyone and everything involved, including distributors, customers, and the environment.

Where to Get Them

If you need crusher dust for your next project, get in touch with us, and we’ll help you prepare a plan. If you’re still trying to decide what kind of gravel or pit run to use, such as traffic gravel or drainage sand, we’re happy to share our professional advice with you.

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