Recycling initiatives are everywhere in the modern world. Did you know that one of those initiatives involves the recycling of asphalt shingles? That’s right; when an old roof reaches the end of its usable life, its shingles can be recycled and the asphalt can be reused again in different applications, most commonly in the paving of roads. The Edmonton roofers at A Clark Roofing & Siding LP. are proud to work in an industry that contributes to sustainability through the reuse of asphalt shingles.
Over one million tonnes of asphalt roofing waste is generated in Canada every year. Recycling asphalt shingles and using them in road paving helps to divert some of this waste away from the landfill. This provides an excellent way to continue using the asphalt after it has served its purpose as a roofing material rather than simply throwing it away.
The reason that asphalt shingles can effectively be used in paving, especially in the paving of highways, is that they have essentially the same composition of materials as paving asphalt. They can easily be recycled and added to asphalt paving for greater volume. Just like hot mix asphalt, shingles are made of a combination of asphalt cement, hard aggregate, and fiber.
There are numerous benefits to using recycled asphalt shingles in road paving, including:
– Resource conservation: Like any form of recycling, the recycling of asphalt shingle helps to preserve valuable, non-renewable resources. It cuts down on the need for mining operations and reduces the environmental impact of road paving.
– Landfill space conservation: Recycling asphalt shingles also helps to keep bulk roofing waste out of the landfill, where it could sit for many, many years without breaking down. It also cuts down on the amount of resources needed to manage landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
– Cost savings: Using recycled asphalt shingles in asphalt paving mix can help bring down the overall cost of road paving projects. Recycled shingles are often used at 5% by weight in paving mix.
– Pavement performance: Using recycled asphalt shingles in a paving mix does not have a negative impact on the performance of the resulting pavement. In fact, studies indicate that it may actually slow road deterioration by reducing cracking and rutting.
As you can see, old shingles don’t have to end their life in a landfill anymore. There’s a good chance your old shingles will be used to pave a road – maybe even one near your home! When it’s time to replace your old roof, you can count on the Edmonton and Sherwood Park roofing contractors at A. Clark Roofing & Siding LP. As one of the most reputable roofing companies in Edmonton, we’ll make sure that your new, expertly installed shingles last for several decades before they too are recycled for a different purpose.
Whether your home needs a brand new roof or you are looking for professional roof repair in Edmonton, you can contact the experienced roofers at A. Clark Roofing & Siding LP. today.