Blog Post

The Environmental Benefits of Recycled Aggregates

  • By William Thompson & Son
  • 26 Aug, 2020
Aggregate

Aggregates are widely used in building and construction and the name covers several different materials, including sand, gravel, crushed stone and slag. Aggregates are one of the most mined minerals in the world, but these mining processes can have a significant negative effect on the environment. 

To offset some of this harm, many building companies choose to use recycled aggregates instead, and there are many benefits to choosing this material over freshly mined aggregates. If you want to know more about some of the advantages of choosing recycled aggregate, read on for our brief guide.

Cost effective

Recycled aggregates are less expensive to produce (as they don’t need to be freshly mined) so they can be sold at a power price point. Choose a local supplier if you want your aggregates to be even more affordable, as you’ll save money on the costs required to ship materials from further afield.

Environmentally friendly

Recycled aggregates are considered a ‘green’ construction material and they’re a much more sustainable option. Harvesting natural materials requires a great deal of energy and the quarrying process consumes valuable resources, as well as causing potential damage to the surrounding environment. By contrast, recycled aggregates help to reduce your carbon footprint and they require far less energy to produce.

Durable

Recycled aggregates have been found to be just as durable and structurally sound as non-recycled material. Aggregates are often mixed with cement or concrete to make them even more durable and you won’t have to compromise on strength if you choose to use recycled materials.

Versatile

Recycled aggregates can be used for a wide range of applications, from domestic gardening projects to general building construction or building new roads. They’re also available in various sizes, from small pieces of crushed gravel and rock to larger stones, so there’s a variety to suit every project requirement. 

If you’re looking for reliable, high quality recycled aggregates, get in touch with the experts at W M Thompson & Son. We deliver throughout Dumbarton and Glasgow and supply a versatile range of materials, including crushed concrete, asphalt and gravel. All of our aggregates go through rigorous quality control procedures so you can be sure you’re getting the best construction materials every time. For more information or to arrange a delivery, give us a call today or visit our website.

By William Thompson & Son 01 Dec, 2020
Here, we provide a very brief guide to improving your recycling habits at home.
By William Thompson & Son 01 Dec, 2020
Here, we take a look at just some of the benefits associated with using gravel as a material in your property.
By William Thompson & Son 01 Dec, 2020
Find out how using recycled aggregates for your next project can save you money and make your next construction project more sustainable.
By William Thompson & Son 01 Dec, 2020
Quarrying is an interesting line of work but how much do you know about it? Here are your top questions answered.
By William Thompson & Son 01 Dec, 2020
Sand, stone and gravel are all such versatile materials and the possibilities really are endless.
By William Thompson & Son 13 Oct, 2020
If you are looking to improve your home with something reliable you can’t go wrong with ready-mix concrete.
By William Thompson & Son 13 Oct, 2020
Not everything can be recycled, so what happens to it? Read on for all you need to know.
By William Thompson & Son 26 Aug, 2020
Quarries can be hazardous to work in, so find out more about how to keep you and your employees safe.
By William Thompson & Son 26 Aug, 2020
From closed-loop recycling to automated waste separation, here are some of the changes we can expect from the future of waste management.
By William Thompson & Son 20 May, 2020
There are also important laws surrounding fly tipping, and it’s vital that members of the public are aware of the reasons why this practice is not acceptable.
Show More
Share by: