The most common roofing material used in the United States is the asphalt shingle. It provides a good value and quality roof protection for 15 to 20 years in most environments. The majority of homes use what is called a three tab shingle. An upgraded shingle is becoming more common called an architectural shingle. Both types are made from a fiberglass mat that is impregnated with asphalt and stone granules to make it waterproof and give it color.
Every year the construction industry produces almost eleven million tons of asphalt shingle waste. Of that figure, almost eight million tons of it goes into landfills. When recycled, these products can be successfully used for a wide range of products and services. A primary use is for manufacturing hot mix asphalt used for road paving.
Ground up shingles can be combined with stone and recycled concrete to make aggregate base and subbase for paving roads. Ground up shingles mixed with aggregate and an emulsion makes a great cold patch for potholes in roads and parking lots. Tear off shingles can be processed to yield fuel oil.
And of course, recycled shingle materials can be incorporated into the manufacture of new asphalt shingles. StormForce of Jacksonville is one roofing contractor that supports recycling and sends approximately 90% of its roof replacement waste to be recycled. We are proud to be a part of the fabric of this community and want to do our part to keep Jacksonville a health and vibrant place to live, work and play.