The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) has unveiled a fresh technical bulletin titled “Low-Slope Asphalt Roofing Recycling.” This publication seeks to promote dialogue and enhance recycling efforts within the low-slope roofing and recycling sectors. It sheds light on the untapped potential of recycling asphaltic roof membranes, particularly those used in commercial roofing, and aims to draw attention to this emerging opportunity.

“Our goal with this bulletin is to educate and engage industry stakeholders about the recycling possibilities for low-slope asphalt roofing products,” explained Aaron R. Phillips, Vice President of Technical Services at ARMA. “Encouraging the recycling of these materials aligns with our vision to cut the landfill disposal of asphalt-based roofing materials by half by 2035 and move closer to eliminating such waste by 2050.”

Low-slope roofing systems, including built-up roofing (BUR) and modified bitumen (MB), are widely used on industrial and commercial buildings. These systems, known for their durability, contain valuable asphalt that can be repurposed for applications like road construction. Recycling these materials not only reduces waste disposal costs for building owners but also delivers environmental and economic advantages.

ARMA’s bulletin, developed by a task force comprising member companies, examines both the obstacles and prospects associated with expanding low-slope asphalt roofing recycling across North America. “Low-slope membranes, which are often discarded in landfills, contain asphalt of sufficient quality and quantity to be recycled, particularly for paving projects,” noted Steven Wadding, Chair of the Task Force. “Through this bulletin, we aim to inform and motivate roofing contractors, recyclers, and other potential users of repurposed asphalt to collaborate and take advantage of this largely overlooked opportunity.”

While Europe has made notable progress in recycling these materials, North America is just beginning to explore its potential. Recyclers can work alongside roofing manufacturers and contractors to identify sources of low-slope asphalt materials, while contractors can assist by separating asphalt components during roof replacements and discussing recycling options with building owners. This collaborative approach will enable stakeholders to make informed choices and reduce the amount of valuable materials ending up in landfills.