With the ever-increasing focus on sustainability and environmental conservation, the recycling of old asphalt shingles has become a notable point of interest in the home improvement industry. In this post, we share more information about the recycling process of asphalt shingles and how it can lead to a more eco-friendly approach to roof repair and replacement.
Asphalt shingle recycling is a process that extends the life of this ubiquitous roofing material and contributes to the sustainability of the industry. When a roofer performs a roof repair or replacement, the old shingles are removed and can be collected for recycling instead of ending up in the landfill. This conscientious disposal has proven not only to be a green choice; it also has pragmatic applications in other industries.
Once shingles are removed by your roofing contractor, they make their way to a recycling center where they are processed. Recycled shingles are primarily repurposed for paving projects, serving as an additive to hot-mix asphalt for public roads, driveways, and parking lots. According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), 1.96 million tons of reclaimed asphalt shingles were utilized in creating new asphalt pavement mixes in the United States in 2014 alone.
Before recycled asphalt shingles (RAS) can be used in new pavement, they must be ground into smaller particles. Equipped with advanced machinery, recyclers grind the shingles to a size suitable for their next application. Coarser particles are employed for base stabilization, while finer ones contribute to the surfacing of pavements. The technology to improve shingle separation and grinding continues to advance, enhancing the efficiency of recycling operations.
Recycling asphalt shingles has dual benefits — environmental and economic. It spares finite resources by reusing nonrenewable asphalt, decreases the cost of road repairs, and creates job opportunities within the recycling sector. Residential and commercial property owners can take comfort in the knowledge that choosing to recycle their asphalt shingles can contribute significantly to the betterment of their community and its surroundings.
The collaboration between roofing contractors, homeowners, and recycling centers is crucial in maximizing shingle recycling efforts. Organizations such as ARMA, NAPA, and the Asphalt Institute promote and support these initiatives, ensuring that old shingles are not wasted but given new life in an environmentally responsible manner.
When contemplating roof repair or replacement, you should enlist the services of contractors who practice responsible asphalt shingle recycling. By choosing a contractor who values sustainability, you can make a positive impact on the environment while also benefiting from the durability and aesthetic versatility that asphalt shingles offer.
Pechacek’s General Contracting, Roofing & Siding LLC can guide you through your options for a more environmentally sustainable roofing project. We can also help you with your siding needs. Call us at (715) 425-9801 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We serve clients in River Falls and Hudson, WI.