Where does black basalt come from?
Black basalt is a decorative aggregate, commonly sold in the form of 20mm chippings. Also known as black granite, its striking black colour is perfect for those looking for something that really does have the wow factor.
It is a 100% natural product, and one that's sustainable, too. Black basalt is sourced directly from quarries, whether in the UK or further afield - a type of volcanic rock that is naturally hardwearing and durable. Its regularity of colour makes it a popular choice amongst those looking to either create contrast against its surroundings, or complement existing features.
After being quarried, our black basalt chippings are mechanically sorted to ensure that the order you receive will consist of chippings of similar sizes. Because these stones are quarried, rather than found naturally loose, they have beautifully angular shapes, which means that every single stone looks completely different. What's more, it also means that your black basalt stones will interlock with each other to provide stable ground underfoot.
This decorative aggregate is only found - and can therefore only be quarried - in certain parts of the UK. Black basalt is a type of volcanic rock, originally formed when lava or magma from volcanos cooled down rapidly. Basalt actually makes up 90% of all volcanic rock on our planet. It can vary in colour but generally ranges from dark grey to black, depending on its composition.
This fine-grained rock has a whole host of different uses. One of the most common uses for basalt is as aggregate in a variety of construction projects, in everything from road bases to pavements, railway ballast and more. Because of its durability, it is also used for dimension stone: pieces of natural rock that are cut into specific shapes and sizes, to be used as building materials, kitchen and bathroom countertops and more. It can be used to build monuments, as a veneer for buildings, and even cut thinly and polished well to use as floor tiles.
For those sorts of uses, black basalt has to be quarried differently: more careful, accurate quarrying that allows the stone to be cut into the right dimensions to be used for its intended purpose. For aggregate - like our own black basalt product - the stone can be quarried more heavily. The stone is blasted to loosen it so that it can be removed and chipped for use.
What are the benefits of using black basalt?
There are many reasons why people decide to go for black basalt rather than its alternatives. First up, the way it looks. Many opt for black basalt for its contemporary style, making it perfect for those looking for a more modern look and feel to their outdoor space.
Charcoal grey in colour when dry, it's often used to provide a bold, striking look in outdoor spaces, often providing contrast to its surroundings. When wet, it takes on an entirely new colour, turning a sleek jet black - which is why it is such a popular choice for ponds and water features.
Its angular stones interlock, making it comfortable to walk on, as well as sturdy and robust, which is why it makes for great driveways and garden paths. Black basalt is also highly durable, meaning it will last you for years to come, and because it is inert by nature, it's also suitable for use around fish and other wildlife.
Black basalt is also resistant to the growth of moss, meaning that it'll continue to look fantastic in the years to come, without the need to replace or treat it in any way. It has great drainage properties too, which means that its use will avoid any pooling or puddling of water, and it may also suppress the growth of weeds, thanks to its ability to block UV light from reaching the ground below.
Where can I use black basalt?
Black basalt chippings can be used in a wide variety of different areas in your home and outdoor space. They are popularly used for driveways thanks to their stability, as well as on footpaths, as their structure means that they are comfortable and not slippery underfoot.
Their striking colour looks fantastic against greenery, as well as combining well with plants of all different shapes, sizes, colours and styles. For this reason, many customers choose to use black basalt as a topper for their flower beds or indoor or outdoor plant pots, as well as an aggregate of choice for garden borders.
What's more, its fish-friendly properties mean that black basalt is a great choice for water features, such as ponds. This - combined with its beautiful jet black colour when wet and the fact that it is not a suitable growing medium for moss - will create a bold and striking look for any water feature. Whether wet or dry, black basalt reflects the sunlight beautifully, making it look even more striking
While black basalt is often used in more contemporary outdoor settings, it has a place in more traditional environments, too. This type of aggregate looks fantastic alongside classic red brick properties too: essentially, it's a versatile aggregate that will look incredible wherever you're looking for a clean and tidy finish.
If you're interested in buying black basalt to transform your outdoor space, we've got you covered. Take a look at our black basalt offering at Decorative Gardens, sold in handy 875kg bags and suitable for a whole host of different projects.
