Who This Guide Is For And How To Use It
Imagine you arrive on a wet Suffolk site where the contractor has ordered “recycled sub‑base” but the delivery ticket and test sheet don’t match the spec. This guide helps you avoid that delay. It is for site managers, QSs, engineers and buyers working in Suffolk and East Anglia who need to choose and verify recycled aggregates to the correct BS EN standard.
In our experience, clear checks at order and delivery save days on programme. Read on to learn which EN codes apply to common uses, what test data to require, simple on‑site checks and how to coordinate supply and haulage with J T Few Ltd for reliable traceability.
Need supply or advice right away? Start with our recycled aggregates service: recycled aggregates.
BS EN Basics For Recycled Aggregates And Typical Uses
EN 13242 covers unbound and hydraulically bound aggregates for sub‑base, capping and drainage (Type 1, Type 2, 6F5, single‑size 4/20, 10/63). EN 12620 applies to aggregates for concrete (RCA 4/20, washed sands where permitted). EN 13139 covers sands for mortar and screed (primarily 0/4).
A common issue we see is clients quoting a generic product name without the EN reference or grading — always specify the BS EN code and grading curve to the supplier and on the delivery ticket.
Paperwork, Testing And What To Ask For
Ask for recent test sheets covering grading, fines/silt, particle density/absorption and durability (LA/ACV) where required. For concrete and mortar uses request chloride and sulphate data. Where specified, request a Declaration of Performance and clear product coding for traceability.
J T Few Ltd provides routine QA certificates from our wash plant. See our testing process here: how we test and certify recycled aggregates.
What Most People Get Wrong
Most teams assume “recycled” equals “variable”. In our experience, properly processed and washed recycled products can be as consistent as natural aggregates — but only if you insist on current test sheets and a product code on the delivery ticket.
When This Doesn’t Apply
If your specification explicitly bans recycled material or the project requires full provenance of quarried stone (for heritage or specialist chemical environments), then recycled options are not appropriate. Confirm this at tender stage.
This image was generated with AI and may not always represent the product or service exactly.
Selecting Aggregates For Sub‑Base, Drainage, Concrete And Mortar
Sub‑base/capping (EN 13242): use Type 1 or Type 2 for structural sub‑base; 6F5 for capping. Aim for a well‑graded mix and control fines to balance compaction and permeability. Check PI and CBR requirements if specified.
Drainage and pipe bedding (EN 13242): specify single‑size 4/10, 10/20 or 20/40 with low fines to avoid clogging. On low‑lying sites a clean single‑size maintains flow in wet weather.
Concrete and mortar (EN 12620 & EN 13139): specify RCA 4/20 or washed 0/4 sands only where the engineer and ready‑mix supplier accept the limits. Check water absorption and chloride/sulphate limits before approving for reinforced work. For guidance on Type 2 selection see: what is a Type 2 aggregate used for.
Coordinate early with our haulage team to match delivery windows and batch timing: haulage.
EN 13242 On Site: Sub‑Base And Drainage Practical Steps
Compact in controlled lifts at the correct moisture. Use a roller matched to layer thickness and avoid over‑compacting fines that block drainage. Verify LA/ACV and target the CBR set by the designer rather than guessing performance.
For pipe bedding, specify consistent single‑size with minimal fines and check visual grading at delivery. In wet Suffolk conditions, washed products reduce the risk of tracked‑in sediment.
EN 12620: Practical Use Of Recycled Aggregates In Concrete
Agree maximum RCA content and additional water for mixes with higher absorption. For reinforced elements control chloride and adjust mix design with the ready‑mix supplier. Suitable uses include blinding, kerb bedding and low‑to‑medium strength pours where EN 12620 is met.
Compare material behaviour before committing to structural pours: discuss mix adjustments and sampling protocols with your concrete supplier and request batch traceability from J T Few Ltd.
EN 13139: Sands For Mortar, Paving And Screed
Specify washed 0/4 sands with controlled silt and fines for consistent workability and finish. Near the Suffolk coast check chloride limits more closely to protect masonry and paving finishes. Always check the grading curve and moisture on delivery for reliable batching.
This image was generated with AI and may not always represent the product or service exactly.
How J T Few Ltd Produces, Tests And Certifies Materials
Material is crushed, screened and washed on site, then stockpiled by product code for consistency and traceability. Routine QA covers grading, fines, absorption and chemical limits as required by the referenced EN standard.
In our experience, clear product coding and up‑to‑date certificates attached to delivery paperwork prevent disputes and speed sign‑off on site.
Ordering, Haulage And Site Logistics In Suffolk
When ordering, confirm product EN code, quantity (use the aggregator calculator), delivery address, access limits and time slot. Use the aggregator calculator to estimate tonnages: aggregator calculator.
We can often combine outbound delivery with back‑haul muck‑away to reduce cost and emissions; advise volumes and classification when booking: muck away. Discuss vehicle choice and site controls with our haulage team early to avoid access delays: haulage.
Quick Spec Selector And On‑Site Checklist
- Sub‑base: Type 1/Type 2 — EN 13242.
- Drainage: single‑size 10/20 or 20/40 — EN 13242.
- Concrete: RCA 4/20 — EN 12620 (agree content and absorption).
- Mortar/Screed: 0/4 washed sand — EN 13139.
Quick Checklist
- EN standard and product code match the order and delivery ticket.
- Current test certificates (within 12 months or project‑specific) attached.
- Visual cleanliness, correct grading and manageable moisture on arrival.
- File delivery ticket and test sheets in the site pack.
Local Applications And Practical Notes For Suffolk
In Suffolk and East Anglia projects we commonly use recycled Type 1 for farm tracks and temporary access, single‑size for trench drainage on low sites, and washed RCA for non‑structural concrete where designers accept it. Plan specifications and approvals before ordering to keep programmes on track.
FAQs
How Do I Decide Between Type 1 And Type 2 For A Farm Track?
Discuss design CBR and expected trafficking. Use Type 1 for structural sub‑base where higher fines aid compaction; choose Type 2 for a balanced option when better drainage is needed. Ask for grading and PI limits on the test sheet.
What Limits Should I Set For RCA In Structural Concrete?
Set a maximum RCA percentage, specify water absorption limits and require chloride testing. Confirm the ready‑mix supplier will adjust mix water and admixtures before accepting RCA for reinforced elements.
Which Tests Matter Most For Coastal Sites?
Prioritise chloride and sulphate testing plus visual salt contamination checks. Washed sands with low chlorides reduce long‑term risk to masonry and concrete near the coast.
How Should I Record Certificates On Site?
Attach current test certificates to the delivery ticket and file a digital copy in the site QA pack. Record product code, delivery date and batch number for traceability.
