The use of aggregates in small and large scale building projects dates back as far as the Roman Empire when sand and stone were key materials in the development of the network of aqueducts and roads. Over time, the uses have evolved, although the main purpose of reinforcing a composite material, such as concrete, to drainage for foundations, wall drains and roadside edges, still does remain its principal purpose.
Aggregates can also be used in a range of domestic settings from building driveways and paths to patios and hard standings.
What Are Recycled Aggregates?
Aggregates are often comprised of various building materials, such as gravel, sand, slag and crushed stone and these are amongst some of the most excessively mined materials in the world. However, in recent years, recycled materials have come to fore, not only are they equally effective and environmentally friendly, but it is also a more affordable option.
The Types of Recycled Aggregates
The new forms of recycled aggregate come in a range of types that are more eco-friendly than traditional materials. These vary from finely crushed particulate material to larger sizes depending on requirements. The table below highlights some of the most popular options and their uses.
| Types of Recycled Aggregate | Suitable For: |
| Crushed Concrete | Patio bases, hard standing, pathways and driveways |
| Pipe Bedding Sand | Patio laying, gas pipes or electrical cabling, bedding in fence posts and floor screeding |
| 80/40 Crushed | Driveways and pathways |
| Ballast Mix | Making concrete |
| Washed Drainage Shingle | Alternative to gravel |
| Sharp Sand | slabs, patios, concrete and also suitable for floor screed and fence posts |
Are There Any Environmental Impacts?
For decades, the impact of quarrying has raised concerns, specifically due to pollution caused by smoke, dust and traffic. There have also been concerns about the excessive noise, damage to caves and a decline in water quality in the areas surrounding the quarries, not to mention damage to landscapes and visual blights. For this reason, recycling companies now work hard to mitigate the amount of waste product that is sent to landfills, conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gases.
Following the negative factors inherent in quarrying, many people in both residential and business settings now look to the recycling of aggregates as a way to acquire not just high quality, economical alternative, but as a means of protecting the environment from the ravages of traditional mining methods.
The Benefits of Recycled Aggregates
Buying recycled has since massive growth in the last ten years, it’s everywhere in our daily lives from plastic bottles which recycled plastic or recycled fabrics in our clothing.
So doesn’t it make sense to buy recycled aggregates as well? Well there’s more to it than having a clean conscience.
It’s Easier On Your Wallet
- Buying recycled aggregates such as MOT type 1 or 2 can save you a pretty penny as the aggregates don’t have to mined or quarried.
- There’s likely a place near you which already recovers/recycles aggregate, which means you can get what you need quicker and cheaper without waiting on an nationwide depot.
- Producing recycled aggregate for resale is more cost-effective than sending un-wanted materials to landfill and incurring landfill tax.
Helps The Planet
- Recycled Aggregate is regarded to be a ‘green’ material in the construction industry.
- Buying screened and recycled material helps reduce the stress on the planet and keep needed resources in the ground for longer.
- Reduces the amount of waste ending up in landfill
Multi-Purpose
- Recycled aggregates aren’t just used in the construction of new builds, commercial properties or industry estates they’re very practical for home improvements, such as laying new patios.
Order Your Recycled Aggregates Today
At Grabloader, we specialise in producing strong, high-quality recycled aggregates for use in domestic, and commercial projects of all scale throughout the Reading area.
So, for more info, to check our stock or to organise a visit your local quarry, get in touch with our team on 0118 988 4142 or use our online contact form and we’ll be in touch soon.
