Several layers are involved in the building of roadways and they typically include subbase, base, and the surface layers. The subbase layer is usually the main load-bearing layer of the pavement and is necessary in constructing roadways to support vehicles but can be left out for foot paths and roadways, where vehicles are not permitted. It may not be well known outside the construction industry, but aggregates are the primary materials used in the base and subbase of road projects, and the bulk of recycled aggregates produced nationally are used as road base.

Recycled aggregate can also be utilized as road shoulders, the base for building foundations, and as fill for utility trenches. Not to mention, recycled aggregates are becoming more popular in landscaping and gardening projects. Need to build retaining walls and gardening beds? Recycled aggregates are great resources for both!

What Are Recycled Aggregates?

With all that being said, let's go back to the basics. You may be wondering what recycled aggregates are. Essentially, it's the term that describes used concrete or asphalt construction rubble/debris that has been crushed down to specified sizes for future use in roadway and building projects. This recycling process involves the use of used aggregates, but only clean loads are recycled to meet industry standards.

Clean Means Clean

Clean means only concrete or asphalt, not mixed together in the same load. The load must be without contamination:  wire mesh, rebar, metal, steel, brick, or excessive road base. Excessive road base is considered to be > 10% of the load.

As a supplier of recycled aggregates, Colorado Aggregate Recycling produces quality recycled concrete and recycled asphalt pavement at our site in Golden, Colorado. CAR is also a disposal site and accepts clean loads of used aggregate materials. Because our own crushing equipment is utilized for both asphalt recycling and concrete recycling purposes, we ensure the purity of each load. So, If you're looking to purchase quality recycled aggregates for your next construction job, road work, or landscaping project, check out our list of PRODUCTS HERE.

Saving With Recycled Aggregates

Apart from the clean factor & environmental benefits that we often list, there are cost-saving benefits to consider, including:

  •  Lower costs when purchasing recycled aggregates (versus newly mined material).
  •  Lower gate fees/tipping fees charged for a given quantity of waste material.
  •  Less concrete waste/debris filling up landfills, keeping down operating costs.
  •  Lighter volume (per unit), meaning less weight & less costs for materials and hauling.

Bidding Season is Here

The new year has arrived, and with that comes preparing for all of your 2020 projects. Do any of your projects need road base? Try our recycled aggregates! Have a large project that requires bids? Visit Our Site to learn more about what we do at Colorado Aggregate Recycling.