Q. Is it technically feasible to recycle asphalt shingles?

A. Yes. Asphalt shingles are being successfully recycled at a number of locations in the United States. Asphalt shingle recycling facilities currently operate in states such as Texas, Maine, Massachusetts, and Oregon. Many other states have demonstrated the technical feasibility of recycling asphalt shingles.

Q. Can post-consumer shingles be recycled, or can only manufacturer's scrap be recycled?

A. Both can be recycled. Because scrap from shingle manufacturers comes from a known source and is not contaminated with other materials, it is usually preferred. But post-consumer scrap shingles (tear offs) can also be recycled providing materials such as paper and nails are removed. Some markets allow a greater amount of manufacturer's scrap to be used as compared to post-consumer material.

Q. What are the major recycling markets for asphalt shingles?

A. The predominant market is hot mix asphalt. The shingles provide a source of asphalt was well as aggregate. Other markets include pot-hole patch, unpaved road coverings, and construction materials.

Q. How are shingles processed?

A. Shingles must be separated from other components such as wood and paper. This is best performed at the source. Waste shingles are typically ground using a horizontal mill, although tub grinders have been used in some applications. The ground shingles are usually screened to achieve a uniform product size (depending on the market). The ground shingles must be passed under a magnet to remove nails.

Q. Are there any regulatory concerns regarding asphalt shingle recycling?

A. Yes. Many asphalt roofing products once contained asbestos, including small amounts in some brands of shingles. Historical evidence suggests that post-consumer shingle scrap typically do not test positive for asbestos. Nevertheless, sample testing and permits may still be required by a state or local regulatory agency.

Q. Is asphalt shingle recycling regulated?

A. There is no specific federal regulation pertaining to asphalt shingle recycling by itself. The National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutant (NESHAP) regulations apply to the demolition and renovation of buildings containing asphalt roofing products containing asbestos. As part of these regulations, asbestos containing waste is not supposed to be recycled into roads and is not supposed to be ground. Each state may have specific regulations pertaining to asphalt shingle recycling. See the state regulatory contacts for more information.

Q. What research has been conducted about the recycling potential of asphalt shingles?

A. Numerous laboratory and field experiments have been performed regarding the feasibility of recycling asphalt shingles. Many of these studies have been conducted by state transportation or environmental departments.