Limestone Screenings
Fine limestone material for leveling and bedding applications throughout Northumberland County.
What Are Limestone Screenings?
Limestone screenings are a fine, powdery material made from crushed limestone that has passed through a screen. The particles are typically 1/4 inch and smaller, creating a material that compacts very tightly when properly installed.
Screenings are essentially the dust and fine particles left over after larger aggregate has been sorted. When moistened and compacted, screenings harden like concrete, providing a solid, stable surface that is ideal for certain applications.
In Northumberland County's climate, screenings are often used as an affordable alternative to HPB for non-critical applications, though they come with important limitations that homeowners and contractors should understand before choosing this material.
Key Properties
- Fine texture: Particles 1/4" and smaller
- High compaction: Sets hard when compacted
- Limited drainage: Water does not pass through easily
- Affordable: Less expensive than HPB
- Easy to level: Smooth surface when screeded
Quick Facts
| Particle Size | 1/4" minus (dust to 1/4") |
| Density | ~1.5 tonnes/cubic yard |
| Best For | Leveling, non-critical paths |
| Depth Required | 1-2 inches (bedding) |
| Compaction | Requires mechanical |
Calculate Screenings Needs
Use our calculator to determine exactly how much screenings you need for your project.
Screenings Calculator →Common Uses for Limestone Screenings
Leveling Layer
Create a perfectly smooth 1-inch layer over a crusher run base before installing pavers. Easy to screed to level.
Walking Paths
Suitable for informal garden paths that won't receive heavy use. Compacts to create a solid walking surface.
Pipe Bedding
Used to bed drainage pipes and create a protective layer around underground utilities.
Flagstone Joints
Sweep into joints between irregular flagstone to create stability and prevent weed growth.
Finish Layer
Apply as a thin finish layer over compacted crusher run for a smooth surface on utility areas.
NOT For High-Traffic Patios
Avoid using as a base for patios and walkways due to poor drainage and freeze-thaw issues.
Installation Tips
1. Base Preparation
Screenings should NEVER be used as a base material for pavers. Always install over a proper base of crusher run or granular A that has been compacted to 6-8 inches for walkways, 10-12 inches for patios, 15-18 inches for driveways.
2. Moisture is Critical
Screenings must be slightly moist to compact properly. Too dry and they won't bind; too wet and they become muddy and unworkable. Aim for a damp, not saturated, consistency.
3. Screeding
Use two parallel pipes as guides and a straight 2x4 to screed the screenings to a uniform 1-inch depth. This creates a perfectly level surface for paver installation.
4. Limited Compaction
Lightly compact with a hand tamper only. Do NOT use a plate compactor on screenings as it will over-compact and create a surface too hard for proper paver bedding.
5. Install Pavers Immediately
Do not leave screeded screenings exposed to rain. Install pavers the same day to prevent washout or premature hardening.
⚠️ Important Warning
Not for paver bases: Never use screenings as the primary base material for interlock patios or walkways. Poor drainage leads to frost heave and paver failure in Northumberland County winters.
Where to Buy Limestone Screenings in Northumberland County
Screenings are widely available at landscape supply yards throughout the region:
- Aggregate supply companies
- Landscape material yards
- Building supply centers
- Direct from local quarries
Note: We do not sell materials. Contact local suppliers for current pricing and availability.
💡 Pro Tip
If your budget allows, upgrade to HPB for paver projects. The superior drainage and self-compacting properties will save you time and prevent costly repairs from frost damage.
Screenings vs HPB: When to Use Each
| Feature | Limestone Screenings | HPB |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Less Expensive | More Expensive |
| Drainage | Poor | Excellent |
| Frost Resistance | Poor | Excellent |
| Compaction | Requires plate compactor | Self-compacting |
| Best For | Budget leveling only | Quality paver bases |
| Longevity | Risk of frost damage | Freeze-thaw resistant |