Recycled Silt Sock: Cost Benefits

We’re examining the total cost of ownership of standard silt socks compared with 100% recycled silt socks. Whilst it’s not a definitive guide and outcomes may vary, this illustrative example will provide a cost benefit of using a recycled silt sock compared with a traditional silt sock.

1. Purchase Cost

The Stratex 100% recycled silt sock price is around double the price of traditional silt socks. There are three key factors behind the added cost; first is the use of social enterprise to manufacture the silt sock sleeves, and second, the stringent cleaning process to remove any impurities from the waste aggregate. In favour of the recycled silt sock, associated freight costs are lower as explained in replacement interval.

2. Replacement Interval

Silt sock failures are often the result of being driven over by cars and heavy vehicles. Stratex conducted a series of tests which were designed to replicate heavy use in the real world. A 2-tonne vehicle was driven over three different types of silt socks; traditional woven polypropylene, geofabric, and the recycled PVC mesh. All silt socks were filled with the same recycled aggregate filling. Silt socks were driven over a total of eight times by both front and rear wheels. Following this test each silt sock was inspected for wear and damage. The woven polypropylene and geofabric silt socks had split, whereas the recycled PVC mesh remained intact with no visible wear. Compared with a traditional silt sock, the 100% recycled silt sock can last up to three times longer.

3. Maintenance Labour

Installed silt socks should be checked periodically to ensure correct positioning, for damage and failure. If the silt sock fails, any debris and waste must be cleaned up, costing time and money. The 100% recycled silt sock requires less maintenance labour over time because it is more durable. In most instances the recycled silt sock should only require checking to ensure correct position. It is reasonable to conclude that the recycled silt sock can halve associated maintenance labour costs.

4. Environmental Costs

Environmental cost is another important consideration factor. The recycled silt sock diverts waste from landfill, whereas traditional silt socks utilise virgin and quarried filling materials. The recycled silt sock also offers a lower carbon footprint, both in its manufacturing and as a reduction in transport emissions by up to two thirds.

5. Total Cost After Six Months

This case study provides a good demonstration of how a lower initial purchase price does not necessarily constitute a lower cost of ownership over a period of time. The 100% recycled silt sock is more durable and more sustainable than other business-as-usual methods. The above presents a conservative estimation for illustrative purposes, and results may vary. The Stratex 100% recycled silt sock provides an innovative means to repurpose construction waste and prevent waterway contamination.