What is recycled aggregate?

Recycled aggregate (RA) is produced by crushing demolition waste - concrete, brick, masonry - into graded material suitable for construction. It must meet quality standards (BS EN 13242 for unbound applications) and can replace virgin quarried stone in many applications.

Where can recycled aggregate be used?

Suitable applications: sub-base for roads and hardstanding (Type 1), pipe bedding, general fill, drainage layers, and landscape features. It is generally not suitable for structural concrete (without specific testing and approval) or where contamination is a concern.

How does recycled aggregate compare to virgin?

Recycled aggregate is typically 10-15% lighter (density 1.8-2.0 t/m3 vs 2.0-2.2 t/m3 for virgin), has a slightly lower CBR (60-80% vs 80-100%), and may need 10-15% greater thickness in some applications. Quality has improved significantly and many recycled products match virgin performance.

What cost savings can I expect?

Recycled aggregate is typically 30-50% cheaper than virgin per tonne, depending on location and availability. The lower density means you need fewer tonnes per cubic metre. Combined, total cost savings of 25-45% are common for sub-base and fill applications.

What environmental benefits does recycled aggregate offer?

Using recycled aggregate reduces: quarrying impact, transport emissions (often produced closer to urban sites), landfill waste, and aggregate levy liability (recycled is exempt from the £2/tonne levy). Embodied carbon is approximately 60% lower than virgin aggregate.

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Recycled Aggregate Calculator

Compare recycled vs virgin aggregate costs and performance

Aggregate Application

Volume Required

Virgin Cost per Tonne

Recycled Cost per Tonne

How We Calculate This

Enter the volume of aggregate needed and the per-tonne costs for virgin and recycled options. The calculator converts volume to tonnes using the density of each type, calculates total cost, and shows the saving. It also factors in CBR value differences to indicate any required thickness adjustment, and estimates the embodied carbon saving from using recycled aggregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.