Every year, countless roofing projects across Canada generate massive amounts of construction waste. A significant portion of this waste comes from asphalt shingles, a durable yet slow-degrading roofing material. What many homeowners don’t realise is that these shingles can take up to 300 years to decompose in landfills. As a result, roofing debris contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions and the depletion of natural resources.
Fortunately, there’s a smarter, more sustainable solution gaining momentum in Winnipeg—asphalt shingle recycling. By giving old shingles a second life, we can divert reusable waste products from landfills, conserve resources, and reduce our environmental footprint. At Above All Roofing & Exteriors, we’re proud to support this initiative as part of our commitment to eco-friendly practices. (Source: bravarooftile.com)
The Problem: Shingle Waste in Winnipeg
Did you know that Winnipeg alone generates over 30,000 tonnes of shingle waste every year? Most of this ends up in local landfills, where it sits for centuries, emitting harmful gases and taking up valuable space. (Source: westerninvestor.com)
This massive amount of waste asphalt shingles not only pollutes our environment but also drives up costs for bin companies, taxpayers, and the community as a whole. The long decomposition time of asphalt shingles makes it clear: we need a better way forward – shingle recycling.
The Recycling Process
Collection & Sorting
The asphalt shingle recycling process begins with proper collection and sorting. It’s crucial to separate shingles from other construction waste—like wood, nails, and insulation—to ensure they remain recyclable. This step is vital for turning old shingles into a reusable product.
Processing
Once separated, facilities like Greensite Recycling in Winnipeg step in. They take clean tear-off materials and grind them into Recycled Asphalt Shingles (RAS). This finely processed material can then be incorporated into hot mix asphalt (HMA), creating high-performance road surfaces.
End Products
The primary use of Recycled Asphalt Shingles (RAS) is in road construction. It not only improves pavement quality but also reduces the need for virgin asphalt, helping conserve natural resources. These recycled shingles become part of the roads we drive on daily—proof that even old roofing can have a second life with lasting impact.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingle Recycling
Environmental Advantages
- Reduces landfill usage and helps lower associated methane emissions
- Helps conserve natural resources and diverts reuseable waste products by cutting down on the demand for virgin asphalt
Economic Benefits
- Reduces material costs for paving companies
- May lower disposal fees for both homeowners, tax payers and roofing contractors
Community Impact
- Supports local infrastructure projects, like roads and pavements built using recycled materials
- Encourages a culture of sustainability in the roofing and construction industries
Winnipeg’s Role in Shingle Recycling
Pilot Projects
Winnipeg has been a national leader in testing innovative recycling strategies for recycled shingles. Manitoba’s initiative to use recycled shingles in asphalt-paving mixtures began with roads near Brady Landfill. These early projects have laid the groundwork for broader adoption for both roofing and paving companies.
Local Facilities
Greensite Recycling plays a central role by collecting and processing shingles into materials ready for reuse. Their services are essential for making shingle recycling a practical option for roofing contractors and municipalities alike.
Government Support
The province has also taken steps to invest in eco-friendly infrastructure. Provincial bodies are working to promote recycling practices through funding and regulation, encouraging a greener approach to construction. (Sources: canada.constructconnect.com, greensiterecycling.com, westerninvestor.com)
Above All Roofing’s Commitment to Sustainability
At Above All Roofing, sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it’s part of our process.
Eco-Friendly Practices
We implement eco-conscious process tear-off procedures, ensuring old shingles are separated and recycled wherever possible. Every roofing project we handle is an opportunity to reduce waste and support shingle recycling in Winnipeg.
Community Engagement
By partnering with local recycling facilities, including Greensite, we help ensure that shingles are disposed of responsibly and ethically.
Customer Assurance
Most importantly, we never compromise on quality. Our commitment to sustainability is matched by our dedication to excellent roofing craftsmanship. That’s why we work with reputable suppliers like Owens Corning, who share our vision for a greener future.
How Homeowners Can Participate
Choosing the Right Contractor
When it’s time to replace your roof, choose a roofing contractor who prioritises sustainability and asphalt shingle recycling. Ask questions about how your old shingles will be handled, and what steps are taken to ensure they’re diverted from landfills.
Proper Disposal
Don’t be afraid to speak up! When scheduling a roof replacement, request details about recycling options. Some contractors may offer recycling as an add-on, while others, like Above All Roofing & Exteriors include it as a standard part of our process.
Community Involvement
Support local recycling initiatives by spreading the word, participating in green events, or writing to your local council to advocate for more funding and incentives.
Conclusion
Asphalt shingle recycling is more than an environmental trend—it’s a smart, sustainable strategy that benefits homeowners, contractors, and entire communities. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting natural resources, to lowering costs and improving local infrastructure, the benefits are clear.
By choosing roofing contractors who recycle, you’re making an informed decision that contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable Winnipeg.
If you’re planning a roof replacement, we invite you to contact Above All Roofing & Exteriors for eco-friendly roofing solutions that make a difference. We’re proud to offer services that support shingle recycling, helping reduce waste while delivering durable, high-quality roofs and craftsmanship.
👉 Visit Above All Roofing & Exteriors
📧 Email: info@aboveall.net
📞 Phone: (204) 999-4674
For more information on asphalt shingle recycling and sustainable roofing practices, explore these helpful resources:
- Greensite Recycling
- Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association
- Shingle Recycling
- Canada Construct Connect
Let’s work together to turn waste asphalt shingles into opportunities for a greener future. Get your free roofing quote today!