6 Factors That Affect the Cost of Aggregate

Aggregates form the foundation of many construction projects and are responsible for structural integrity. Whether you’re constructing a residential complex, a bridge, or a road, aggregates are key to providing the base for many other construction materials such as concrete, mortar and asphalt. 

However, the cost of aggregates can vary and is determined by factors such as their extraction process and material composition, as well as your location and the supplier’s transport costs. 

In this article, we’ll discuss how aggregate costs can vary, and the factors that influence the cost of aggregates.

1) Location and Transportation

Quarries, often in remote rural locations, are a common source of most aggregates. This will affect fuel, vehicle, labour, and equipment costs. This makes location a key factor in your aggregate costs.

Equipment used to transport aggregates will also need additional maintenance due to the bulky nature of aggregate increasing vehicle wear and tear. Add to this the logistical complexities around transporting heavy loads via HGV, and you can understand why transport is one of the main costs underpinning your aggregate price.

2) Material Quality

As you’d expect, the higher quality the aggregate, typically, the higher the price. Higher quality aggregate requires more processing, testing and certification, which can all increase the costs.

Typically, recycled aggregates come at a lower cost and are also more sustainable, if environmental impact is an important consideration for your project. 

The extraction methods used will have an impact on the overall aggregate quality and cost. This is especially applicable if you’re considering marine aggregates, which are sourced from the seabed, using special techniques and equipment, meaning higher costs.

At Middleton Aggregates, we offer high-quality aggregates for all your construction projects. You can use our aggregate calculator to calculate how much aggregate you need, helping you cut down on the cost of aggregates. Call us on 01553 841044 to place your aggregates delivery today.

3) Size and Weight

Aggregates come in various sizes to accommodate a wide range of construction applications. 

Finer aggregates are often used as a major component mix of materials like cement and often weigh less. This means their logistical and supply costs are usually lower, so, the cost of aggregate base made with finer aggregates is often lower compared to other aggregates.

Comparatively, coarser aggregates that are heavier and more dense may require more energy-intensive extraction processes, as well as increasing their transport and delivery costs. 

4) Seasonality

Construction projects rarely operate throughout the year as the seasons determine how much a project can progress. This is especially true in winter, when construction may be delayed due to snow or extreme weather. 

The time of the year that you’re ordering may directly impact the cost of aggregate, as supplies could be limited and become more expensive.

On the other hand, favourable weather conditions during spring or summer may typically see a rise in demand for aggregates as construction work increases. Seasonal availability may have an impact on aggregate price. 

5) Regulatory requirements

With sustainability targets now a top priority, the UK is investing significantly to make sure building projects comply with environmental regulations. It has been targeted by the government that the construction industry achieve its net zero targets by 2050. 

With this in mind, the cost of aggregates is also influenced by their environmental impact, material durability, and safety factor for use in a construction project. For example, the cost of aggregates for a coastal defence project will differ from standard aggregates. 

Other regulatory requirements, such as land use policy and the need for additional standard certifications, may also drive up the cost of aggregate base.    

Contact Middleton Aggregate for High-Quality Aggregates

Aggregates form a significant part of any construction project. While the cost of aggregates may vary according to your project’s needs, it’s important to prioritise quality and overall value over affordability. 

At Middleton Aggregates, we offer a range of high-quality aggregates and fill materials to help you ensure your construction projects are done right. We also offer plant hire services to satisfy all your construction needs. 

Located in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, we’re here to help you find the ideal materials. With our aggregate calculator, you can find out how much aggregate you need, minimising waste at the end of your project. 

We offer our services to customers across Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, and Suffolk areas. You can trust us to provide consistently reliable, friendly and professional services when you choose Middleton Aggregates.

For more information on our products and services, visit our website or contact us now.