Pipe bedding & surround

4/10 mm pipe bedding aggregate

4/10 mm graded pipe bedding is the standard Class S bedding and surround stone for small-diameter drainage and utility runs. The tight 4–10 mm grading compacts readily around the pipe barrel without point-loading the crown, giving uniform support in narrow trenches where a larger single size would bridge.

Key specifications

Nominal size
4/10 mm graded
Typical use class
Class S bedding and surround
Material
Primary crushed / washed gravel
Compaction
Self-compacting in narrow trenches
Supply formats
Loose tipper, grab lorry, 850 kg bulk bag
Typical load
16–20 t tipper, 850 kg bag

Typical uses

  • Bedding and surround to 100–150 mm foul and surface-water drainage
  • Ducting and utility trenches where a fine, self-levelling surround is specified
  • Narrow-trench work with limited compaction access
  • Land drainage laterals and connections

Lead time and delivery

Stocked line — most postcodes in England and Wales are dispatched within 24–72 hours of order confirmation. Scotland and Highland deliveries are typically 3–5 working days. Programmed civils schedules are booked in advance and delivered to your call-off dates.

Tipper, grab and artic haulage. Where we are also removing surplus from your site the same lorry returns loaded, cutting haulage cost and empty running.

Frequently asked questions

Is 4/10 mm suitable as Class S bedding?

Yes — 4/10 mm graded stone is one of the most commonly specified Class S bedding and surround materials for small-diameter pipe runs. Confirm the size against your drainage detail before ordering, as some specifications call for 10 mm or 4/20 mm instead.

How much pipe bedding do I need per metre of trench?

As a rule of thumb, a 450 mm wide trench with 100 mm bed and 150 mm cover over a 150 mm pipe takes roughly 0.25–0.30 tonnes per linear metre. Send us your trench dimensions and run length and we'll price the tonnage for you.

Other bedding and capping sizes