Hoggin is a type of aggregate that is used for roads, paths and driveways that is made up of a mixture of clay, sand and gravel and is usually light brown, or buff, in color. The mixture of clay, sand and gravel means that it is a stable and usable surface that can be laid more cheaply than other methods of paving. A path that is made of hoggin is quite easy to install and to maintain, although it can need weeding from time to time.
To make hoggin, there should be no pieces larger than 1.5 inches (about 40 mm) in size. The clay, sand and gravel must be very precisely combined to ensure that the surface is stable and remains so over time. With too much sand or gravel, the surface will not stay together, which means that over time it will break down and become unusable. Also, too much sand or gravel will lead to water invading the surface and washing it away.
The gravel within the hoggin should be well graded, or spread evenly across the area that is being paved. Once it has been spread, the surface should be compacted using a roller. Depending on the depth of the surface required, successive layers may need to be spread and then rolled to ensure that the material is compacted properly. In most cases, at least 3 to 4 inches (80 to 100 mm) will be needed for foot traffic or light vehicles.
Once the hoggin is laid, gravel is added across the surface of the area. The gravel provides strength to the hoggin base, as well as a more effective surface. Depending on the depth of the path, road or driveway, 3/4 inch to 2 inches (20 to 50 mm) of gravel should be rolled into the surface. This step must be completed right away and the base should not be allowed to become wet or waterlogged for any length of time.
When hoggin is laid properly, it is only slightly permeable to water; it is mostly watertight. While some water may penetrate the surface of the paved area, most will roll off. It is important to lay the road or path on a slope so that water will run off of the surface and not form puddles in certain areas.
