Four Common Questions About Quarries

Quarrying is an industry that’s been around for hundreds of years, yet many people don’t know much about the process. As a way of excavating natural materials from the ground such as rock, stone, gravel and sand, quarrying is essential for construction and development across the UK. 

So, what else is there to know about quarrying? In this blog, we answer four common questions about this type of work. 

What is the difference between a quarry and a mine?

Around the world ‘quarry’ and ‘mine’ are often used interchangeably. However, in the UK quarrying is associated with stone and rock which is extracted from an open-top site whereas mining is associated with coal and metals which are taken from a closed pit.

Why is quarrying needed?

Without the materials gathered through quarrying, our towns and cities would not function as they do today. Quarrying provides construction materials for building homes, roads, buildings and other essential developments across the world. Whether you’re thinking of buying a new property or you’re planning an extension, these things would not be possible without the work of quarries.

Will we run out of natural stone?

Before the importance of sustainability was truly understood, quarrying is one area that was overlooked. Today, we understand that natural resources are being used at a fast pace which is why quarrying sites have adapted their work and options such as recycled aggregates are not available. Earth has not stopped creating these materials, however, it is everyone’s responsibility to use them in the right way.

What happens to disused quarries?

Instead of leaving empty quarries as eyesores, projects are now started to turn these sites into nature reserves, sports sites, lakes and more so the land can still be put to good use. 

At W M Thompson & Sons in Scotland, our natural quarry products are suitable for an enormous range of projects. From small-scale infrastructure jobs to the construction of flood defences, road surfacing and driveway laying, we adapt to the needs of our clients. Alongside quarrying, we can also help with recycled aggregates, landfill, and concrete. Get in touch with us today for more information.