Why Your Construction Company Should Use Recycled Aggregates

So, what are recycled aggregates and how are they made? This is essentially a broad term to describe a number of coarse particulate materials used on building sites. They are by-products of the concrete leftover after a project has been completed. However, many recycling experts now specialise in its production.

Concrete aggregate is produced from the waste that is generated when a building or structure is torn down. This material was once sent to landfill, but as it is clearly non-biodegradable, this wasn't a sustainable long-term solution for construction and building sites.

Environmental sustainability is just one of the reasons why many professional builders are now opting to recycle their old materials. But, unbeknown to many, using old concrete can actually provide a whole host of other benefits - benefits that will not only help the environment, but could also apply to your construction work.

Recycled concrete aggregate can be used safely in a variety of applications. Contrary to popular belief, it can actually prove more sturdy and durable than other traditional building materials. In order to achieve a reusable solution, however, the process of recycling concrete is incredibly thorough and must be undertaken by a specialist.

Firstly, concrete pieces are screened to remove debris that could compromise the integrity of the material. They are then crushed down to size according to the needs of the project. This process is also used to recycle stone intended for laying roads and pavements.

Working with recycled materials can benefit your construction project in a number of ways. For a start, it will save you vast amounts of money, as any builder will tell you.

Aggregates are less expensive to produce than traditional building materials but will still provide a firm and long-lasting foundation. The money you will save on construction can then be used on more decorative surfacing materials, resulting in a better final product.

Recycling concrete is also far more eco-friendly than traditional materials - it involves little processing and leaves natural materials such as stone untouched. Then there is the obvious benefit to the environment of less concrete in landfills.

As well as proving more sustainable and economical, recycled aggregate is also extremely versatile. It can be used in a number of applications including construction projects, landscaping and home improvement. Not only that, but it is incredibly durable and safe. This has been certified by many reputable sources, so you'll never have to sacrifice the strength of a structure in order to work in a more eco-friendly way.

With all of this in mind, there are a number of considerable benefits to swapping out your conventional building materials for recycled ones, but you need to make sure you purchase them from a responsible supplier.

In order to make sure you're getting a reliable product that has been properly screened and approved, you need to find a recycling plant with a solid reputation. Look for a company that's been in the business for a number of years and has a portfolio of existing clients.

The company who supplies your materials will also need to be accredited by a reputable source such as the Construction Plant Competence Scheme, CPA or NPORS. This will ensure that materials are created responsibly and are subject to the appropriate screening processes to make sure they are safe to use.

OCL are UK-based specialists in aggregate recycling. They operate on a national basis, providing low-energy and highly sustainable alternatives to traditional building materials. They supply widely to a range of construction companies and other clientele. The company own and operate mobile plant, which is then suitable for crushing, screening and ex-situ mixing with their other materials. OCL have a vast portfolio of customers to whom they have provided expert surfacing, remediation and recycling services using their wealth of industry experience. The company is fully quality assured and competency accredited, with a keen focus on health and safety requirements. Visit: http://www.oclonline.co.uk/recycling-centres/



 By Stuart Gready




Article Source: Why Your Construction Company Should Use Recycled Aggregates