UK · Updated 2026 · Price comparison
Reclaimed vs New Surplus EPS Insulation in Milton Keynes: 2026 Comparison
Should you buy new or reclaimed EPS for your Milton Keynes project? In 2026 the answer increasingly leans reclaimed — cost, planning acceptance and embodied carbon all favour it. Here's the head-to-head for South East buyers.
Cost comparison, 2026
| Grade | Reclaimed | New equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Job-lot | £4.00 per m² | £7.20 per m² |
| Standard | £11.00 per m² | £19.80 per m² |
| Premium | £18.00 per m² | £29 per m² |
Quality and spec differences
- EPS70, EPS100, EPS200 grades — full BBA cert
- Standard 1200×2400 sheets, 25–200mm thicknesses
- Ideal for floor insulation, raft foundations, ICF
Carbon comparison
Reclaimed EPS carries close to zero embodied carbon vs new manufacture. On a Milton Keynes refurb, choosing reclaimed can offset 3–8 tonnes of CO₂e per property depending on scope.
Planning acceptance in Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes planning officers routinely accept and often require matching reclaimed stock inside conservation areas across South East.
Frequently asked questions
+Is reclaimed always cheaper than new in Milton Keynes?
Almost always for standard grades. Premium heritage grades can approach or exceed new prices when new equivalents don't exist.
+Where can I use EPS?
Under-floor, raft foundations, external wall render systems, and cavity walls (EPS100+).
+Does reclaimed void manufacturer warranties?
New warranties don't apply. Ex-display and surplus stock retains full warranty when unregistered.