Disposing of discarded shingles is one of the least-discussed, yet essential, topics related to roof replacement. But consider the amount of waste generated once a roofing contractor completes the roof replacement project. That’s over 11 million tons of roofing-related waste disposed of in the United States alone every year. Surely there has to be a better way than just dumping all this waste into landfills.
Asphalt Shingle Recycling
Did you know that asphalt is infinitely recyclable? Unlike plastics that degenerate every time it’s recycled, asphalt can be recycled without losing its original properties. This is why shingle recycling is an important part of roofing waste disposal. Along with other asphalt shingle components like paper and metal from discarded nails, only a small fraction of waste material from today’s asphalt shingles actually end up in landfills.
As North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, GAF is spearheading advancement and awareness of shingle recycling. In fact, as of 2015, the estimated rate of shingle recycling has increased to 28%, compared to 10% from just over five years prior. Comparatively, glass and can recycling is only about 20%. GAF has also partnered up with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Construction