What to Do with Old Shingles?

Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material for many homes. However, after years of exposure to the elements, shingles can become worn and damaged. When it’s time to replace your old shingles, you may be wondering what to do with them. Simply throwing them in the trash is not always the best option, as they can take up a lot of space in landfills.

Fortunately, there are several options for disposing of old shingles in an environmentally friendly way. One option is to recycle them. Many recycling centers accept asphalt shingles, which can be ground up and used as a base material for new roads or parking lots. This not only helps to reduce waste but also conserves natural resources by using recycled materials in new construction projects.

Understanding Shingles

Age and Types of Shingles

Shingles are a common roofing material used in construction. They come in different types and ages, with some lasting longer than others. The age of shingles is an important factor to consider when deciding what to do with old shingles. Asphalt shingles, for example, can last between 15 and 30 years, while metal shingles can last up to 50 years.

Materials Used in Shingles

Shingles are made from a variety of materials, including asphalt, metal, slate, clay, and rubber. Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of shingle used in roofing due to their affordability and durability. Metal shingles are also becoming more popular due to their longevity and energy efficiency.

Asphalt and Architectural Shingles

Asphalt shingles come in two types: 3-tab and architectural. 3-tab shingles are the most common and affordable type of shingle used in roofing. They are made from a single layer of asphalt and are thinner than architectural shingles. Architectural shingles, on the other hand, are thicker and more durable. They are made from multiple layers of asphalt and are designed to mimic the look of wood or slate shingles.

When it comes to disposing of old shingles, it’s important to consider the type and age of the shingles. Some shingles, such as those made from asbestos, require special disposal methods. It’s also important to consider the environmental impact of disposing of old shingles and to explore alternative options, such as recycling or repurposing the shingles.

Disposal of Old Shingles

When it comes to disposing of old shingles, there are a few options available to homeowners. The most common methods include using landfills and dumps, hiring junk removal services, or enlisting the help of professional contractors. Each of these options has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to carefully consider which one is right for your situation.

Landfills and Dumps

One option for disposing of old shingles is to take them to a local landfill or dump. This can be a cost-effective option, as many landfills and dumps charge a nominal fee for accepting construction materials. However, it’s important to note that some landfills and dumps may not accept shingles due to environmental concerns. Additionally, homeowners will need to transport the shingles to the landfill or dump themselves, which can be time-consuming and require the use of a dumpster.

Junk Removal Services

Another option for disposing of old shingles is to hire a junk removal service. These companies specialize in removing unwanted items from homes and businesses, and they can often dispose of shingles in an environmentally-friendly manner. However, this option can be more expensive than taking shingles to a landfill or dump, and homeowners will need to schedule a pickup time that works for both parties.

Professional Contractors

Finally, homeowners who are replacing their roof may want to consider hiring a professional contractor to handle the tear-off and disposal of old shingles. Many roofing contractors offer this service as part of their overall roof replacement package, and they can ensure that the shingles are disposed of in an environmentally-friendly manner. However, this option can be more expensive than the previous two, as homeowners will need to pay for both the roof replacement and the shingle disposal.

Overall, there are several options available for disposing of old shingles. Homeowners should carefully consider their budget, time constraints, and environmental concerns before choosing the option that is right for them.

Recycling Shingles

Shingle Recycling Programs

Recycling old shingles is an environmentally friendly way to dispose of them. Many recycling facilities have started shingle recycling programs to help homeowners and contractors recycle their old shingles. These programs allow shingles to be recycled into new materials, which can be used in various ways.

Asphalt Shingle Recycling

Asphalt shingle recycling is one of the most common forms of shingle recycling. The asphalt in shingles can be recycled and used in road construction. The recycled asphalt can be used to pave new roads or repair existing ones. This helps to reduce the amount of waste going to landfills and creates a more sustainable roofing industry.

Shingles in Road Construction

Shingles can also be used in road construction. They can be ground up and used as a base material for roadways. This can help to reduce the amount of virgin materials needed to construct roads, making it a more sustainable option. Shingles can also be used to create a more durable road surface, which can withstand heavy traffic and weather conditions.

Overall, recycling old shingles is a great way to reduce waste and create a more sustainable roofing industry. Homeowners and contractors should consider their shingle recycling options and take advantage of shingle recycling programs in their area. Shinglerecycling.org is a great resource for finding shingle recycling facilities and programs near you. By recycling old shingles, we can create a more sustainable future for our communities and the environment.

Budget Considerations

When it comes to dealing with old shingles, budget considerations are an important factor to keep in mind. The cost of repairing or replacing a roof can be significant, so it’s important to explore all options before making a decision.

One option is to simply repair the damaged shingles rather than replacing the entire roof. This can be a cost-effective solution, especially if the damage is isolated to a small area. However, if the roof is old and in poor condition, repairing individual shingles may not be a long-term solution.

Another budget-friendly option is to consider using recycled shingles. Recycled shingles are made from materials that have been salvaged from old roofs and other sources. They can be a more affordable option than new shingles, and they are also environmentally friendly.

It’s also important to consider the cost of labor when budgeting for a roofing project. Depending on the size of the roof and the extent of the damage, labor costs can be significant. It’s important to get multiple quotes from reputable roofing contractors to ensure that you are getting a fair price.

Overall, when dealing with old shingles, it’s important to consider all options and weigh the costs and benefits of each. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that meets your budget and your roofing needs.