Just imagine your driveway, a shed base, a rural access track or any other project that requires a sturdy, well packed foundation? Roadbase will most likely be on the shopping list. There are many reasons why it is one of the most purchased bulk orders in Western Australia - it is affordable, durable and flexible.
Can I find out more about roadbase delivery in Perth before making a call to order it? Yes, there are several questions you should ask about cost, how much and whether or not you can even collect it:
Utilize this data to ensure you receive your roadbase securely and start your project successfully.
What Is Roadbase, and Why Is It So Widely Used?
A roadbase is a mixture of materials, usually a mix of crushed rock, gravel and finer particles that will lock together to form a firm and stable surface. The mixture is constructed to be able to carry heavy loads without shifting so is the main material used as a sub-base in Perth for driveways, carparks, footpaths, building pads and rural roads throughout Perth and wider WA.
Roadbase holds together under compaction as opposed to loose gravel or sand. It creates a stable durable surface that won't move, blow or scatter. Ideal under pavers, asphalt, concrete or crushed limestone. Also ideal on its own as a surface for sheds, driveways or hardstands.
Types of Roadbase Available in Perth
Your choices of roadbase are many and varied, not all are suitable for long lasting projects. The type delivered to you around Perth are:
- Perth's Crushed Limestone- Roadbase was so easy to source and compact well.
- Crushed granite/rock roadbase - Denser and generally used where harder wearing is required
- Recycled roadbase (crushed concrete/brick mixes) - cheaper and more environmentally friendly options
- Fine or coarse grades- selected according to whether a smooth upper surface or a thick structural base are needed.
Unsure what grade to go for? Just check with your supplier which grade is suitable depending on what is going on top-pavers, concrete, gravel or vehicle movement-all require slightly different specifications.
How Much Roadbase Do You Need?
Roadbase can be bought by the tonne or cubic metre. It is important to know how much to buy in order to buy the correct amount without buying more than is required. As a rough estimate when buying, road bases allow a depth of 100mm to 150mm on a driveway and 150mm to 200mm on areas which will be used by larger vehicles.
One of the simplest ways to estimate volume is to take the length, breadth and compaction depth of the site and turn it into tonnes by multiplying it by an approximate density of 1.6 to 1.8 tonnes per cubic metre. For larger or irregular sites try and get your supplier to do this for you, or using an online roadbase calculator so the delivery gets right the first time.
Site Access: The Detail Most People Overlook
How are you so unnecessarily billed an arm and a leg? The first reason, poor access to the site. How do you enter your land? Before requesting in your roadbase, take a few time to inspect your land:
- Tip truck or semi-trailer driveway width and over head clearance
- Weight restrictions on shared driveways, verges or private roads
- Where trucks can turn around to get in and out.
- Any low hanging power lines, trees, or small gates.
- If the load is to be tipped on site or dropped kerbside.
If you are in a narrow street then many transport companies in Perth will have mini tippers or truck and dog machines that will get into place. If you let them know during quoting about access problems it will save you time and stress on moving day.
Timing Your Delivery
Finalising an order for roadbase deliveries in Perth is simple however there are a few timing factors that could affect your project:
- Weather- during heavy rain the deliverer may be delayed or the new roadbase placed may be too wet to compact.
- Lead times-certain grades can get booked out during the busy building season, so please give us a few days' notice.
- Same day / next day - many suppliers can get the job done quickly if you are pushed for time, but expect to pay a premium for this service.
- Several loads- For larger jobs, staged deliveries might be necessary. Make sure to talk this over with your carrier in advance.
Understanding Pricing
Cost of Roadbase in Perth can vary depending on the grade and type of material supplied, the amount of material in tonnage and the distance from quarry to your site. Delivery charges will generally be calculated on the size truck used, the distance travelled and the accessibility of the site. It can be useful to request a broken down quotation showing the material cost and delivery cost so you can compare suppliers more easily.
If you're ordering by the tonne then buying in bulk will always be cheaper. If you are planning on completing several jobs and just have one larger one then it might be worth trying to co-ordinate the deliveries so you make best use of each load.
Choosing the Right Delivery Partner
However, not all suppliers of bulk materials treat them with the same care and reliability. Look for a company who:
- Proven ability to work effectively in various suburban and rural areas throughout Perth
- Various truck sizes are available for easy access needs.
- Provides accurate tonnages and displays transparent pricing
- Explain the time it takes to deliver and the interruptions or delays in simple human English.
- Can advise you on the most appropriate roadbase grade for your project
A dependable local operator will be familiar with council regulations, quarry locations and the day-to-day logistics of delivering materials to metro and outer-suburban homes throughout Perth, ensuring your project stays on schedule.
Preparing Your Site Before Delivery
Preparation can assist in making for a trouble free delivery day. Clear the vehicles, tools or anything else from the drop zone, identify the spot for the load to be tipped and organise for a person to flag the truck if the spot is hard to reach. If you are spreading and compacting the roadbase yourself, remember to have your rake, wheel barrow and plate compactor ready so that the material isn't left out and about.
Final Thoughts
Ordering a roadbase can be simple but a little research prior to delivery can greatly influence the cost, your schedule and the end result. Be aware of your quantities, ensure understanding of your access, select the appropriate grade and choose a supplier with local knowledge.
Formula Transport offers prompt, efficient bulk material deliveries throughout Perth. We are experts in the supply of roadbase, sand, gravel and crushed limestone. Regardless of the size of your project, residential or commercial, for a small driveway or a major project our team can advise you on the amounts required, what product to order, and how to time your delivery. Call Formula Transport now for your roadbase delivery quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much roadbase do I need for a driveway?
In general driveways are best to be compacted to 100-150mm roadbase. Calculate in the same way as the concrete, just use 1.6-1.8 tonnes/m3 to get an accurate measure.
What's the difference between roadbase and crushed limestone?
Roadbase-Blended, compactable product used as a structural base layer. Crushed limestone may be used as a finished surface or a lighter duty base, particularly for sandy soils of Perth.
Can trucks access tight residential driveways in Perth?
Yes, the majority of suppliers will have a smaller truck or a truck and dog that will go down narrow driveways. Make sure you tell the delivery company about access restrictions, overhead heights and turning circles when booking your delivery.
How long does the roadbase take to be delivered?
Standard deliveries take a few days but many other Perth suppliers offer a same or next day service if the job is urgent (subject to truck and material availability).
Does rain affect roadbase delivery or installation?
Heavy rains may hinder compaction of roadbase and delay delivery. It is recommended to time the delivery to take place in dry weather and compact the roadbase quickly before it is subject to long periods of rain.
Is recycled roadbase as good as quarried roadbase?
Recycled roadbase provides a good quality base and is suitable for most residential applications, providing an inexpensive environmentally friendly solution. When heavy trucks are expected, a quarried roadbase is used for its greater strength.
