Did you know that roof repairs and replacements produce 11 million tons of asphalt shingle waste each year in the United States?
That’s a lot of shingles!
Luckily not all shingle waste has to go to the landfill. Asphalt shingles can be recycled into making highways and parking lots. Some states regulate shingle recycling, and many companies will collect your extra shingles.
Even if recycling is not required, roofing contractors should be doing it anyways. In fact, recycling 11 million tons of asphalt roofing shingles is the equivalent of saving 11 million barrels of oil.
Roofing contractors can do their part by recycling their shingles or donating unused shingles to Habitat for Humanity or other organizations. Contractors should take accurate measurements to reduce roofing wastes and costs.
Even as a homeowner, make the effort to ask whether or not your contractor is recycling. It’s a simple step towards improving the environment.
For more of our spring cleaning disposal tips, check out our posts for clothing, electronics, medicine and paint.