UK · Updated 2026 · Price comparison
Reclaimed vs New Surplus EPS Insulation in Newcastle: 2026 Comparison
Should you buy new or reclaimed EPS for your Newcastle project? In 2026 the answer increasingly leans reclaimed — cost, planning acceptance and embodied carbon all favour it. Here's the head-to-head for North 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 Newcastle refurb, choosing reclaimed can offset 3–8 tonnes of CO₂e per property depending on scope.
Planning acceptance in Newcastle
Newcastle planning officers routinely accept and often require matching reclaimed stock inside conservation areas across North East.
Frequently asked questions
+Is reclaimed always cheaper than new in Newcastle?
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.