Road Base Explained: DGB20, Recycled vs Natural & Stabilised

DGB20 road base explained — natural vs recycled vs cement-stabilised, which suits driveways, slabs and council jobs, and how it's sold and delivered.

Road base is the workhorse that sits under driveways, slabs, paths and pavements. The most common type is DGB20, and at Elite Sand & Soil we supply it in natural, recycled and cement-stabilised forms. Here’s how to pick the right one.

What is DGB20 road base?

DGB20 (dense-graded base, 20mm) is a graded mix of crushed stone and fines that compacts into a strong, stable layer. Its angular particles interlock to form a solid, long-lasting base — which is why it’s the standard material under driveways, slabs, paths and pavements.

Natural vs recycled — the main choice

Natural DGB20 is virgin quarry-sourced road base that meets RMS specifications, with consistent grading and strong compaction. It’s the pick for:

  • Commercial site base prep
  • Slab and pavement works
  • Council and government jobs

Recycled DGB20 is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly base made from crushed, screened recycled concrete. It delivers excellent compaction and stability while reducing landfill waste — ideal for:

  • Driveways and slab preparation
  • Temporary roads and access paths
  • General pavement base under bitumen, asphalt or turf

Need extra strength? Stabilised road base

For engineered, load-bearing bases we also blend road base with cement:

  • Stabilised Natural Roadbase — virgin DGB20 stabilised with cement for engineered-grade pavement and slab base: council-specified roadworks, commercial slab or kerb prep, and carpark bases.
  • Stabilised Recycled Roadbase — recycled road base blended with 2–5% cement for enhanced structural support: slab prep, footings and pads in soft soil, and low-cost road and driveway base.

Which should I use?

  • Natural DGB20 — council, commercial and government jobs that need spec compliance.
  • Recycled DGB20 — driveways, paths and general base; the economical, eco-friendly choice.
  • Stabilised (natural or recycled) — when you need extra strength, an engineered base, or you’re building over soft soil.

How it’s sold & delivered

Available in 20kg bags or 1-tonne bulka bags, or loose. Loose pickup from 250kg; loose delivery from 500kg, 6 days a week. Call 1300 935 483 for a delivered price.

How much do I need?

Road base is laid and compacted to a set depth, so the quantity depends on the area and thickness of your job. Call us on 1300 935 483 and we’ll work out the right amount and a delivered price.

Order or ask our team

Not sure which road base suits your project? We’re happy to help — call 1300 935 483 or browse the natural and recycled DGB20 road base in our store.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DGB20 road base?

DGB20 (dense-graded base, 20mm) is a graded mix of crushed stone and fines that compacts into a strong, stable base under driveways, slabs, paths and pavements.

What's the difference between natural and recycled road base?

Natural DGB20 is virgin quarry-sourced and meets RMS specifications, ideal for council and commercial jobs. Recycled DGB20 is made from crushed concrete — a more economical, eco-friendly option for driveways and general base.

When should I use stabilised road base?

Stabilised road base is blended with cement for extra strength. Use it for engineered or load-bearing bases, council-specified works, or building over soft soil.

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