When a driveway, walkway or other asphalt pavement surface becomes weathered and is in need of replacing, tearing out the old surface and replacing it with fresh, new asphalt is often the best way to go. Many homeowners may wonder how to dispose of the old asphalt and few may realize that they’re able to recycle asphalt. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, asphalt is the most recycled product in the U.S. Approximately 80 million tons of asphalt pavement is reclaimed and recycled annually throughout the country.
Why You Should Recycle Asphalt
Asphalt is made from bitumen, a substance that can be extracted naturally from the earth or from the residue that’s created as a result of petroleum distillation. Regardless of the method used, asphalt extraction has adverse effects on the environment and therefore, the positive effects that recycling asphalt have on the environment are limitless. Thousands of acres in landfill space are saved each year by recycling and many of the minerals particles that are produced help to conserve the earth’s natural resources.
In addition to the environmental benefits involved when we recycle asphalt, an estimated $2.5 billion in taxpayer expenses is saved by recycling asphalt.
How is Recycled Asphalt Used?
Unlike most materials, recycled asphalt tends to improve in quality after the recycling process. Asphalt pavement can be recycled and re-used for driveways, parking lots and roads as it continues to retain its cement-like properties after the recycling process and other materials in the pavement such as rocks and gravel can be preserved and re-used as well. New standards for asphalt mixes allow for a percentage of recycled material to be used in new asphalt
Recycled asphalt shingles (RAS) are a good source of aggregate, which reduces the need for mining aggregate and helps to improve the quality of the pavement it’s used in. Higher mineral content in RAS increases the strength and durability of pavement it’s used in by reducing cracking. When used in roads, RAS can also help to reduce dust and rust. RAS is also an ideal material for use in temporary roadways.
F&M Contractors, Inc.
F&M Contractors is your number one source for information about how to recycle asphalt, as well asphalt replacement and resurfacing. If you need more information on asphalt recycling or if you’d like to receive an estimate or request a contract, contact us today at 410-667-8900 or send us an e-mail to info@fmcontractors.com.
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