From Rooftop to Roadbase—Why Shingle Recycling Matters
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials in North America—and one of the largest contributors to construction and demolition (C&D) waste. But when properly recovered and processed, they become a valuable resource across a range of industries.
Recycled Asphalt Shingles (RAS) can reduce costs, conserve natural resources, and help lower greenhouse gas emissions. This page explains where shingle waste comes from, how it’s processed, and where recycled materials go next.
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Since 2009, over 16 million tons of shingle waste have been recycled into asphalt roads. At 1.067 million tons per year, this is only a fraction of the shingle waste generated.
With your help, we intend to change that.
As a member of the CDRA, you’ll gain access to exclusive resources, industry insights, and a network of experts committed to advancing shingle recycling.
Where Shingle Waste Comes From
Recyclable asphalt shingles are typically sourced from:
- Tear-offs during re-roofing and demolition projects
- Manufacturing scrap from new shingle production
- New construction leftovers and misloads
Contractors and processors sort shingles to remove contaminants like nails, felt paper, wood, and flashing. Both post-consumer (tear-off) and post-industrial (manufacturing) shingles can be recycled when properly handled.
The Shingle Recycling Process
The recycling process typically involves:
- Collection & Transport: Shingles are removed from roofs or collected as scrap, then delivered to a recycling facility.
- Grinding & Screening: The shingles are ground down using specialized equipment. Magnets remove nails and screens separate to produce recycled asphalt shingles (RAS), classified by size to meet required performance specifications.
- Separation of Components: The process isolates the asphalt binder, mineral granules, and fiberglass or organic matting for reuse as raw materials in a variety of end markets.
Recycled Asphalt Shingles (RAS)
From Waste to Valuable Resource
Leading End Markets for RAS
Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA):
The most established end market for RAS is road paving. Ground shingles are added to HMA as a partial substitute for virgin asphalt and aggregate.
Benefits of using RAS in HMA:
- Reduces material costs for paving contractors
- Diverts waste from landfills
- Conserves oil and natural resources
- Can reduce the carbon footprint of paving projects by up to 10%
Performance testing is key—new tools like Balanced Mix Design (BMD) ensure that RAS-enhanced asphalt meets durability standards before going to market.
New Roofing Products:
Recycling technologies are emerging that enable shingles to be reused in roofing products, including:
- Roof-to-roof applications using reclaimed asphalt and granules
- Accessory products like underlayments, felt paper, and sealants
These circular solutions reduce landfill pressure and appeal to sustainability-focused builders and homeowners.
Cement Kilns:
RAS is sometimes used as an alternative fuel source in cement manufacturing. It can help:
- Offset fossil fuel use in kilns
- Contribute aggregate and filler material
- Reduce emissions associated with cement production
Gravel Roads & Dust Control:
Ground shingles are being used in rural roadbeds to:
- Stabilize gravel surfaces
- Suppress dust
- Extend the lifespan of unpaved roads
Emerging & Experimental Uses:
Innovation continues to expand what’s possible with RAS. New uses under development include:
- Liquid asphalt extraction for use in binders
- Powdered asphalt for specialty applications
- Industrial fillers and composite materials
Why Shingle Recycling Matters
An estimated 15 million tons of shingle waste are generated annually in the U.S.—and asphalt shingles can take centuries to decompose in landfills. Shingle recycling:
Conserves natural resources
Cuts disposal costs
Reduces GHG emissions
Helps close the loop on asphalt material use
Become a CDRA Member
Whether you’re a recycler, hauler, HMA producer, or material innovator, the opportunities in shingle recycling are growing. CDRA members get access to:
- Exclusive white papers and case studies
- The latest performance standards and specs
- A powerful network of industry professionals
Join the CDRA today to stay ahead of the curve—and help build a more sustainable future for construction and demolition recycling.