MOT Type 1 vs MOT Type 3: What’s the Difference?

If you are planning a driveway, patio or landscaping project, you may come across MOT Type 1 and MOT Type 3.

They are both commonly used as sub base materials, but they are designed for different purposes. Choosing the right one depends on how your project needs to perform, particularly when it comes to drainage.


What Is MOT Type 1?

MOT Type 1 is a crushed aggregate made from materials such as granite, limestone or concrete.

It is graded from 0 to 40mm, which means it contains a mix of fine particles and larger pieces. This allows it to compact tightly, creating a strong and stable base.

Key features of MOT Type 1

• Graded 0 to 40mm
• Made from crushed granite, limestone or concrete
• Compacts to form a solid base
• Heavy duty and load bearing
• Available as a recycled option

Common uses

MOT Type 1 is typically used for:

• Driveways
• Patios
• Foundations
• Roads

It is ideal where strength and stability are the main priority.


What Is MOT Type 3?

MOT Type 3 is also a crushed aggregate, but it is designed to be free draining.

It is graded with fewer fine particles, which creates an open structure that allows water to pass through.

Key features of MOT Type 3

• Graded 40mm down
• Made from crushed, graded aggregates
• Permeable and free draining
• Suitable for sustainable drainage systems
• Available as a recycled option

Common uses

MOT Type 3 is commonly used for:

• Permeable driveways
• Footpaths
• Roads
• Sub base for SuDS compliant projects

It is ideal where drainage is important.


The Key Difference

The main difference between MOT Type 1 and MOT Type 3 is how they handle water.

MOT Type 1 compacts tightly and does not allow water to drain through easily. This makes it strong and stable, but less suitable for areas where drainage is required.

MOT Type 3 has a more open structure, allowing water to pass through. This makes it suitable for projects where permeability is needed.


Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between MOT Type 1 and MOT Type 3 depends on your project.

Choose MOT Type 1 if:

• You need a solid, load bearing base
• Drainage is not a priority
• You are building a traditional driveway or patio

Choose MOT Type 3 if:

• You need water to drain through the surface
• You are working on a permeable or SuDS project
• Drainage is a key consideration


Planning Your Project

Before ordering, it is worth thinking about how the area will be used and whether drainage is important.

Making the right choice at the start will help ensure your project performs as expected.

If you are unsure which material is best, our team is always available to help.


Summary

MOT Type 1 and MOT Type 3 are both reliable sub base materials, but they serve different purposes.

Type 1 is designed for strength and compaction, while Type 3 is designed for drainage.

Understanding the difference will help you choose the right material for your project.