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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Sansums</title> <atom:link href="https://sansums.co.uk/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://sansums.co.uk/</link> <description></description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 19 Oct 2023 21:14:16 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-GB</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2</generator> <image> <url>https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/cropped-sansums-fav2-32x32.png</url> <title>Sansums</title> <link>https://sansums.co.uk/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height></image> <item> <title>Expert Drainage Solutions for Your Home</title> <link>https://sansums.co.uk/expert-drainage-solutions-for-your-home/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[YZDESIGNS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Oct 2023 21:11:24 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Garden Materials News and Updates]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sansums.co.uk/?p=5547</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Ensuring proper drainage around your home is crucial, especially in a climate where we experience so many weather extremes. </p><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/expert-drainage-solutions-for-your-home/">Expert Drainage Solutions for Your Home</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_0 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_0"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_3 et_pb_column_0 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ensuring proper drainage around your home is crucial, especially in a climate where we experience so many weather extremes. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">From heavy rains to melting snow, excess water can cause a range of issues such as flooding, foundation damage, and even mould growth. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In this post, we will discuss expert drainage solutions that can help protect your home and keep it safe and dry all year round. </span></p></div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_3 et_pb_column_1 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_0 et_animated et-waypoint"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap has-box-shadow-overlay"><div class="box-shadow-overlay"></div><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="850" height="550" src="https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Expert-Drainage-Solutions-for-Your-Home.jpg" alt="Expert Drainage Solutions for Your Home" title="Expert Drainage Solutions for Your Home" srcset="https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Expert-Drainage-Solutions-for-Your-Home.jpg 850w, https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Expert-Drainage-Solutions-for-Your-Home-480x311.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 850px, 100vw" class="wp-image-5552" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_2 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_1 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Understanding the Importance of Effective Home Drainage</span></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Effective home drainage is important for maintaining the integrity of your property and ensuring its long-term durability. With unpredictable weather patterns becoming more common, it’s essential to invest in expert drainage solutions that will protect your home all year round. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/">Sansums</a>, we understand the importance of effective home drainage and offer a range of high-quality drainage products designed to keep your home safe and dry. </span></p><h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Benefits of Investing in Quality Drainage Products</span></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investing in quality drainage products offers a range of benefits for homeowners. </span></p><ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Designed to effectively manage excess water. By installing reliable drainage solutions, you can protect your home’s structural integrity and avoid costly repairs in the long run. </span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">High-quality drainage products are durable and built to withstand changing weather conditions, ensuring they will last for years to come. </span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investing in quality drainage products can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your home is well-protected against unpredictable weather patterns. </span></li></ul><h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Top Drainage Products to Protect Your Home</span></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether you are looking for underground drainage products to replace the old system, or you’re fixing a broken piece of piping, we’ll help you choose the right products for the job.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Our products are expertly designed to effectively manage water and prevent issues such as flooding and foundation damage. </span></p><h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Expertly Recommended Drainage Solutions</span></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With years of experience in the industry, we understand the unique needs and challenges that homeowners face when it comes to managing excess water. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Our team of professionals will assess your requirements and provide you with <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/top-tips-maintaining-garden-paving/">expertly recommended</a> drainage solutions tailored to your specific needs. Just pop into our Swindon store and our staff will be happy to assist. </span></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/expert-drainage-solutions-for-your-home/">Expert Drainage Solutions for Your Home</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Transform Your Lawn with Artificial Grass Before Winter</title> <link>https://sansums.co.uk/transform-your-lawn-with-artificial-grass-before-winter/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[YZDESIGNS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Oct 2023 09:08:25 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Garden Materials News and Updates]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sansums.co.uk/?p=5521</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Are you tired of mowing your lawn every week? Are you looking for an easier and more sustainable way to maintain a beautiful outdoor space?</p><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/transform-your-lawn-with-artificial-grass-before-winter/">Transform Your Lawn with Artificial Grass Before Winter</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_1 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_2"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_5 et_pb_column_3 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_2 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2>Are you tired of mowing your lawn every week?</h2><p>Are you looking for an easier and more sustainable way to maintain a beautiful outdoor space? Artificial grass offers the perfect solution. It not only eliminates the need to mow but also provides numerous benefits for homeowners, saving money and time and reducing water usage and waste. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing lawn or start fresh, now is the perfect time to transform your outdoor space with artificial grass.</p></div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_5 et_pb_column_4 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_1 et_animated et-waypoint"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap has-box-shadow-overlay"><div class="box-shadow-overlay"></div><img decoding="async" width="850" height="550" src="https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Transform-Your-Lawn-with-Artificial-Grass-Before-Winter.jpg" alt="Transform Your Lawn with Artificial Grass Before Winter" title="Transform Your Lawn with Artificial Grass Before Winter" srcset="https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Transform-Your-Lawn-with-Artificial-Grass-Before-Winter.jpg 850w, https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Transform-Your-Lawn-with-Artificial-Grass-Before-Winter-480x311.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 850px, 100vw" class="wp-image-5532" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_3"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_5 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_3 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2>The Benefits of Artificial Grass</h2><p>Artificial grass offers a wide range of benefits for homeowners, making it a smart and practical choice for transforming your outdoor space.</p><h3>No more mowing</h3><p>First and foremost, it eliminates the need for constant mowing. Instead of spending time pushing a heavy lawn mower around the garden, you can relax in it instead!</p><h3>Saves money</h3><p>Not only does artificial grass save you time, but it also saves you money. With artificial grass, you can say goodbye to expensive lawn maintenance costs such as watering, fertilizing, and weed control. This low-maintenance alternative requires minimal upkeep, allowing you to save on water bills and avoid the cost of purchasing lawn care products. No more lawnmowers, strimmers or shears. This also means more room in the garage or shed!</p><h3>Looks better all year round</h3><p>When you invest in artificial grass, you can enjoy a beautiful lawn all year round, regardless of the season or weather conditions. Unlike natural grass, which can become patchy and discolored during the winter or drought, artificial grass maintains its lush and vibrant appearance throughout the year. Whether it’s summer, spring, fall, or winter, your lawn will always look its best.</p><h3>Safer for children and pets</h3><p>You don’t need harmful chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides to keep the lawn looking green, lush, and weed-free. This makes it a safer option for pets, children, and the environment.</p><h3>Environmentally friendly</h3><p>As well as the convenience and cost savings, this alternative to natural grass also offers numerous environmental benefits. By opting for artificial grass, you can significantly reduce your water usage and conserve this precious resource. With natural grass, you would typically need to water it regularly, especially during hot summer months. However, artificial grass requires no watering, saving you money on your water bills and helping to preserve water for other essential needs.</p><p>In addition to water conservation, artificial grass eliminates the need for harmful chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides. These chemicals not only harm the environment but can also be hazardous to pets and children. By choosing artificial grass, you create a safer and healthier outdoor space for your loved ones.</p><p>Furthermore, you will be helping to reduce the carbon emissions associated with lawn maintenance. With no need for mowing or the use of gas-powered lawn equipment, you can contribute to a cleaner and greener environment.</p><h3>Best Time to Install Artificial Grass</h3><p>If you’re considering installing artificial grass, you may be wondering what the best time is to make the switch. The truth is, it can be installed at any time of year. Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, you can transform your lawn and enjoy all the benefits of this fuss-free product.</p><p>However, there are a few factors to consider when deciding on the best time to install. For instance, if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, it may be best to install artificial grass during a more mild season. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that installation times may vary depending on the size and complexity of your project.</p><p>Why wait? <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/contact-us/">Contact us today</a> to schedule a free consultation and let our experts help you determine the best time to install artificial grass for your specific needs.</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/transform-your-lawn-with-artificial-grass-before-winter/">Transform Your Lawn with Artificial Grass Before Winter</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>How to Prepare Your Garden for Winter</title> <link>https://sansums.co.uk/how-to-prepare-your-garden-for-winter/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[YZDESIGNS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 31 Aug 2023 19:47:48 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Garden Materials News and Updates]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sansums.co.uk/?p=5501</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Help protect your garden from the ravages of winter Winter can be a tough time for gardens.</p><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/how-to-prepare-your-garden-for-winter/">How to Prepare Your Garden for Winter</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_2 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_4"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_6 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_4 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2>Help protect your garden from the ravages of winter</h2><p>Winter can be a tough time for gardens, and after all the time and money you may have spent during the spring/summer months, you want to protect it from the ravages of winter. With a little preparation, you can help your garden survive the cold weather and come back strong in the spring.</p><p>Here are some tips on how to prepare your garden for winter.</p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_2 et_animated et-waypoint"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap has-box-shadow-overlay"><div class="box-shadow-overlay"></div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="850" height="550" src="https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Prepare-Your-Garden-for-Winter.jpg" alt="Prepare Your Garden for Winter" title="Prepare Your Garden for Winter" srcset="https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Prepare-Your-Garden-for-Winter.jpg 850w, https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Prepare-Your-Garden-for-Winter-480x311.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 850px, 100vw" class="wp-image-5507" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_5"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_7 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_5 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3>Protecting Your Garden Furniture</h3><p>Bring all your garden furniture and cushions inside. This may be to a covered area such as a shed or a garage. If you don’t have anywhere to store the larger items, think about purchasing some covers to protect them from the elements. Metal will soon rust and cushions will become mouldy and ruined if left outside all winter. Pop them away and bring them out again in the spring when they will look as good as new.</p><h3>Preparing Your Patio</h3><p>You may be wondering if there is anything you can do to protect your patio before the winter sets in. In fact, there are a few things:</p><p><strong>Sweep and clean it<br /></strong>Remove any leaves, debris, or dirt that could collect water and freeze, causing damage to your patio.</p><p><strong>Reseal your patio<br /></strong>A good sealant will help to <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/top-tips-maintaining-garden-paving/">protect your patio</a> from the elements, such as water, snow, and ice.</p><p><strong>Use an awning or gazebo<br /></strong>An awning or gazebo can provide shelter from the wind and rain, helping to keep your patio dry and in good condition.</p><p><strong>Drain any water away<br /></strong>Make sure that water can drain away so that it doesn’t pool and freeze.</p><p><strong>Use a de-icer that is safe for your patio<br /></strong><a href="https://sansums.co.uk/gritting-salt-swindon-keeping-you-slip-free-this-winter/">Salt</a> can damage some types of patios, so use a de-icer that is specifically designed for use on patios.</p><h3>Looking After Your Plants</h3><ul><li>Clean up your garden. Remove any dead or diseased plants, and rake up leaves and other debris. This will help to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your garden.</li><li>A layer of mulch will help to insulate the roots of your plants and protect them from the cold. Use a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw, leaves, or wood chips.</li><li>Protect tender plants. If you have any tender plants that are not cold-hardy, you can protect them by bringing them indoors or covering them with a thick layer of burlap or plastic.</li><li>Water your plants deeply. Before the first frost, give your plants a deep watering. This will help them to store water in their roots and survive the winter.</li><li>Prune any dead or diseased branches from your trees and shrubs. This will help to make them more resistant to winter damage.</li><li>Add compost to your soil. Compost will help to improve the drainage and fertility of your soil, which will benefit your plants in the spring.</li><li>Check your garden regularly throughout the winter for any signs of damage or pests. Take steps to address any problems as soon as possible.</li></ul><p>By following these tips, you can help your garden survive the winter and come back strong in the spring.</p><p>No matter where you live, it is important to take steps to prepare your garden for winter. By doing so, you can help your plants survive the cold weather and come back strong in the spring.</p><h3>When should you start preparing your garden for winter?</h3><p>The best time to start preparing your garden for winter is in the fall, before the first frost. This will give you time to complete all of the tasks that need to be done, such as cleaning up your garden, mulching your plants, and protecting tender plants.</p><p>However, you can also start preparing your garden for winter in the winter months. If you live in a mild climate, you may be able to get away with not doing anything until the spring. But if you live in a cold climate, it is important to start preparing your garden for winter as early as possible.</p><p>By following these tips, you can help your garden survive the winter and come back strong in the spring.</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/how-to-prepare-your-garden-for-winter/">How to Prepare Your Garden for Winter</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>How to Care For Decorative Gravel</title> <link>https://sansums.co.uk/how-care-decorative-gravel/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[YZDESIGNS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:20:27 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Garden Materials News and Updates]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sansums.co.uk/?p=5367</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Here at Sansums, we supply an extensive range of decorative gravel for all types of garden and driveway projects. </p><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/how-care-decorative-gravel/">How to Care For Decorative Gravel</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_3 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_6"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_8 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_6 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>Here at Sansums, we supply an extensive <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/decorative-gravel/">range of decorative gravel</a> for all types of garden and driveway projects.</p><p>It is a low-maintenance landscaping material that will last for years; however, it does require some care to keep it looking at its best. We take a look at how to care for decorative gravel.</p><h2>Control weeds</h2><p>When it comes to how to care for decorative gravel, you may find weeds are your biggest problem. Weeds can quickly take over a gravel bed, so it’s important to control them regularly. You can use a weed barrier fabric or a herbicide to prevent weeds from growing in the first place.</p><p>If you do have weeds, you can remove them by hand or with a hoe. We strongly advise taking the time to put down a barrier fabric first otherwise, you will spend more time than you would like getting rid of the weeds that will continually grow.</p><h2>Rake the gravel</h2><p>Over time, the gravel will start to settle and become uneven. You will notice patches that are more built up than others and gaps where the gravel is barely there. To keep it looking its best, rake the area every few months to smooth out the surface and remove any debris.</p><h2>Clean the gravel</h2><p>If the gravel gets dirty or dusty, you can clean it with a hose or a pressure washer. Be sure to use a low setting so you don’t damage the gravel.</p><p>Also, if you do decide to use a pressure washer, be careful that you don’t blow up any smaller stones and make a real mess of the surrounding area. Often removing the gravel and washing it in a large container is a good idea. You can then replace it after cleaning.</p><h2>Add new gravel</h2><p>Over time, the gravel will start to thin out. To keep the bed looking full, add new gravel as needed. If you are opting for a white stone, you will notice a stark contrast in colour so either clean the existing gravel or mix the gravel in well to ensure you don’t get very visible ‘patchy’ areas.</p><h5>Here are some additional tips on how to care for decorative gravel:</h5><ul><li aria-level="1"><strong>Choose the right type of gravel.</strong> Not all gravel is created equal. Some types are more resistant to staining and fading than others. Choose a type that is appropriate for your climate and usage.</li><li aria-level="1"><strong>Consider the size of the gravel.</strong> The size of the stones/pebbles will affect the look of the bed. Larger gravel will create a more open and airy look, while smaller gravel will create a more dense and formal look.</li><li aria-level="1"><strong>Match the gravel to the surroundings.</strong> A contrast between a black fence and white gravel in a border, for example, looks very striking and you can create some really nice-looking areas.</li><li aria-level="1"><strong>Drainage.</strong> If the graveled area has poor drainage, you may find that your choice of gravel becomes muddy, dirty and waterlogged. Consider a different area or a choice of stone that can withstand the elements.</li></ul><p>With a little care, your decorative gravel will last for many years to come.</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/how-care-decorative-gravel/">How to Care For Decorative Gravel</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Aggregate Explained</title> <link>https://sansums.co.uk/aggregate-explained/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[YZDESIGNS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 18 May 2023 08:40:16 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Sansums Swindon Wiltshire]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sansums.co.uk/?p=5185</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Aggregate is a broad term used to describe any granular material used in construction.</p><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/aggregate-explained/">Aggregate Explained</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_4 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_7"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_9 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_7 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2>Aggregate is a broad term used to describe any granular material used in construction.</h2><p>It is typically made up of crushed stone, sand, or gravel, and it is used in a variety of applications, including concrete, asphalt, and mortar.</p><p>It is important in construction because it provides strength, durability, and workability to materials. They also help to reduce the amount of cement and water that is needed, which can save money and resources.</p><h3>There are many different types available, each with their own unique properties. Some of the most common types of aggregates include:</h3><ul><li aria-level="1">Crushed stone: This is the most common type of aggregate, and it is made by crushing rocks into smaller pieces. Crushed stone is used in a variety of applications, including concrete, asphalt, and mortar.</li><li aria-level="1">Sand: Sand is made up of small, loose particles of rock or mineral. It is used in concrete, mortar, and grout.</li><li aria-level="1">Gravel: Gravel is made up of larger pieces of rock or mineral than sand. It is used in concrete, asphalt, and road base.</li></ul><p>When choosing the right aggregate for a construction project, it is important to consider the specific needs of the project. The type of material used will affect the strength, durability, and workability of the final product.</p><h3>Here are some of the benefits of using aggregates in construction:</h3><ul><li aria-level="1">Strength – Give added strength to concrete, asphalt, and mortar. This is because they help to fill in the gaps between the smaller particles of cement and sand.</li><li aria-level="1">Durability – They make concrete, asphalt, and mortar more durable. This is because they are resistant to weathering and erosion.</li><li aria-level="1">Workability – Make concrete, asphalt, and mortar easier to work with. This is because they help to improve the flow and consistency of the materials.</li></ul><p>Aggregates are an essential part of construction. They provide strength, durability, and workability to materials, which makes them essential for a variety of applications.</p><h3>Check out these additional facts:</h3><ul><li aria-level="1">The UK aggregates market is worth around £2 billion per year.</li><li aria-level="1">The UK is the largest producer in Europe, producing around 200 million tonnes per year.</li><li aria-level="1">The most common type used in the UK is crushed rock, which accounts for around 80% of all aggregates used.</li><li aria-level="1">Other types used in the UK include sand, gravel, and recycled aggregates.</li><li aria-level="1">Aggregates are used in a wide variety of construction projects, including roads, buildings, and bridges.</li></ul><p>Aggregates are a versatile and important material that is used in a variety of construction applications.</p><p>They provide strength, durability, and workability to materials, which makes them essential for a variety of projects.</p><p>At Sansums, we provide a range of building aggregates and gravel to help you with your construction project.</p><p>Check out our range and <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/building-aggregates/"> discover more</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/aggregate-explained/">Aggregate Explained</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Five Tips for Planning Your Patio</title> <link>https://sansums.co.uk/five-tips-for-planning-your-patio/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[YZDESIGNS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 28 Apr 2023 15:51:07 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[How to Lay a Path]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Patio Slabs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Paving]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Paving Slabs]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sansums.co.uk/?p=5132</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Turn your garden into somewhere to entertain family and friends or simply to relax on a weekend. Here's five tips for planning your patio.</p><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/five-tips-for-planning-your-patio/">Five Tips for Planning Your Patio</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_5 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_8"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_3 et_pb_column_10 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_8 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>As we head into spring and towards summer, our thoughts turn to the outdoor spaces of our home and making the most of them.</p><p>You may be considering a new patio ahead of the summer months to turn your garden into somewhere to entertain family and friends or simply to relax on a weekend.</p><p>We take a look at five tips for planning your patio.</p></div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_3 et_pb_column_11 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_3 et_animated et-waypoint"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap has-box-shadow-overlay"><div class="box-shadow-overlay"></div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="850" height="550" src="https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Five-Tips-for-Planning-Your-Patio.jpg" alt="Five Tips for Planning Your Patio" title="Five Tips for Planning Your Patio" srcset="https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Five-Tips-for-Planning-Your-Patio.jpg 850w, https://sansums.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Five-Tips-for-Planning-Your-Patio-480x311.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 850px, 100vw" class="wp-image-5135" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_9"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_12 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_9 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3>Be mindful of drainage</h3><p>How will the water run off your patio? Where will it go? If your patio is raised above the level of the garden, are there drainage points? Is the patio next to the house? If so, you need to make sure that any water runs aways from the house or any other permanent structure. Consider this before you decide on the final area for your patio.</p><h3>Choose the right paving</h3><p>A big part of planning a patio is choosing the paving stones that you will use. Your first consideration will be whether or not you like them and if they will look right in the space you have planned. There are a couple more things to consider before you make your final decision though.</p><p>Look at them when wet – wet stones may look a different colour to dry ones and you may not like them as much. If the wet stones are much darker and you aren’t as keen, bear in mind, you are going to be looking at a wet patio quite a lot!</p><p>Use the right size – too small a stone in a large area may look a little odd. It may also look odd if you use stones that are too large in a small area. The size of stone you use will also help to create the illusion of space. If the stones are too small, they could make the patio look too busy or crowded.</p><h3>Get your budget right</h3><p>When designing your patio, you need to consider your budget. Don’t try and do it on a tight budget after spending lots of money on the rest of the house. A patio is likely to be more expensive than you think and you don’t want it to look like you have done it on a budget. A patio is an investment. Consider everything that you will need from the cost of the materials, to how much it will cost to lay the patio and make sure you have enough money to do it properly, even if this means waiting a little while longer.</p><p>Conversely, expensive is not always best. Materials vary in cost and just because they are more expensive, doesn’t mean they are necessarily best. Take sawn limestone for example. It has to be sawn, sandblasted and brushed which makes it a more expensive option. A riven sandstone is a cheaper option and may be more suited to your project. Riven means ‘naturally split’ so it doesn’t have to go through the same process as sawn stones but still offers a premium-look.</p><h3>Factor the house into the design</h3><p>Let your house inform the structure, layout, size and design of your patio. Use stones that coordinate well with the exterior facade of the house. When it comes to the position of the patio, consider which part of the garden gets the most sun at which parts of the day.</p><p>If you are only going to use the patio in the evenings, where is the last place in the garden that gets the sun? Conversely, you may not want a patio that is in direct sunlight all day long and prefer to have some shade at peak times.</p><h3>Consider function</h3><p>What is your patio going to be used for? Is it a place where you will entertain and dine? If you want a more cosy space, create intimate patio areas that can be used to relax with garden furniture and furnishing. For this to work you need to choose the right area of the garden to install your patio.</p><p>Are you going to plan borders around it to blend with the rest of the garden? If so you will need to plan those borders, the plants you will plant and whether you will have potted plants/trees on your patio. You can also look at furniture ideas to get an idea of what can be accommodated in the space including a dining table and chairs, recliners or some simple seating arrangements. It is a good idea to have measurements so that you can fit everything in and avoid the disappointment of your finished patio coming up smaller or larger than you imagined.</p><p>For all your patio paving requirements, and advice on planning your patio, the team at Sansums are happy to help. Discover more about our <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/paving-and-patio-slabs/">patio stones and supplies</a> here.</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><p>The post <a href="https://sansums.co.uk/five-tips-for-planning-your-patio/">Five Tips for Planning Your Patio</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sansums.co.uk">Sansums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> </channel></rss> If you would like to create a banner that links to this page (i.e. this validation result), do the following:
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