Recycled Concrete Road base RCA (2" minus)

Recycled Concrete Road Base RCA (2" Minus): Product Overview

Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) Road Base (2" minus), also known as 2" Crushed Concrete with fines, is a construction aggregate produced by crushing demolished concrete structures. This material contains a blend of coarse particles up to 2 inches in size and finer particles, forming a well-graded mixture. RCA Road Base may also be referred to as Recycled Concrete Road Base, Crushed Concrete Base, RCA Base, 2" Minus Recycled Concrete, or Recycled Aggregate Base (RAB). The product is typically gray, with angular stone shapes for improved interlock and compaction. Small amounts of brick, asphalt, or other inert materials may be present, and while most steel or wire is removed during processing, trace amounts can remain.

Key Characteristics

• Produced from crushed, demolished concrete structures
• Particle sizes up to 2 inches, including fines
• Contains both coarse and fine aggregates
• May include small quantities of brick, asphalt, or inert debris
• Angular shape provides stability and compaction
• Lower density than virgin aggregate (110-135 lbs/ft³ compacted dry)
• Meets ASTM D2940 and may comply with AASHTO M319
• Variable gradation, generally well-graded

Practical Considerations and Limitations

RCA Road Base is not suitable as a finished surface for high-traffic pavements unless covered with asphalt or concrete. It should not be used where strict alkali-silica reactivity control is needed, or in areas with high sulfate soils without proper testing. The material is not recommended for applications requiring very low fines content, highly uniform gradation, or where decorative appearance is important. RCA is not intended for potable water applications, and its suitability in wet or poorly drained subgrades depends on proper drainage design.

• Not a top layer or finished surface-must be capped for pavements
• Too large for walking or driving directly on
• Not for decorative use or potable water systems
• May require screening to remove residual metal for sensitive uses

Common Applications for RCA Road Base

RCA Road Base (2" minus) is widely used in both residential and commercial projects as a stable base layer for various construction needs. Its well-graded blend of coarse and fine particles provides strong support and good compaction under overlying surfaces. Typical uses include road base and subbase for highways, streets, parking lots, and driveways. It is also suitable for temporary construction access roads, site stabilization, structural fill, embankment material, and as backfill for retaining walls. In some cases, it is used as pipe bedding or recycled into new concrete when further processed.

Technical Specifications

Installation and Handling

Proper site preparation is essential before installing RCA Road Base. The subgrade should be graded and compacted to avoid uneven settlement. Apply RCA in layers, typically 6 to 8 inches thick, and compact thoroughly for maximum stability. Moisture conditioning during compaction can help reduce dust and improve binding. For applications where surface finish is important, consider screening the material to remove any remaining metal fragments.

The material is not intended to be walked or driven on directly, as its maximum particle size and angularity can make the surface rough and unstable. It must be used as a base layer beneath asphalt, concrete, or pavers.

High-Level Comparison Table

Regional Pricing Examples

RCA Road Base (2" minus) is available for delivery across the United States. Prices vary by region due to sourcing and transportation costs. All prices include delivery to your specified location. Below are sample prices for select cities. To get a quote for your area, enter your ZIP code on the Gravelshop website.

These are example prices and may change based on location, availability, and local market factors. Delivery is included in the listed price. For a full, up-to-date quote, use the ZIP code tool on our website or contact Gravelshop support.

Ordering and Delivery Information

Ordering RCA Road Base is simple through Gravelshop. Prices shown on the website include delivery and taxes, with no hidden fees. You can select your preferred delivery date and time during checkout. Road access for delivery must be at least 12 feet wide and suitable for heavy trucks. If you are not available at the time of delivery, the material will be left at the most suitable spot as determined by the driver. Gravelshop does not offer material spreading or landscaping services.

You can pay securely online using major credit cards and digital payment platforms. After placing your order, you will receive a confirmation email with order and delivery details. For assistance or questions, contact Gravelshop customer support by phone, email, or the website contact form.

Summary

Recycled Concrete Road Base RCA (2" minus) is a sustainable, well-graded aggregate for base and subbase applications. It is not suitable as a surface layer or for decorative use, and care must be taken in areas with strict chemical or drainage requirements. The material is delivered in bulk and is too large and rough for walking or driving on directly without a top layer. For accurate pricing and delivery, use the ZIP code calculator on the Gravelshop website.