When homeowners invest in a new roof, they typically focus on the benefits they’ll gain. Improved curb appeal, better protection from the elements, and increased home value. But have you ever wondered what happens to the old shingles that are removed during a roof replacement?
Many people assume that old roofing materials simply end up in a landfill. Unfortunately, that is often the case. In fact, an estimated 10 million tons of shingles are removed from homes and buildings across the United States each year, creating a significant waste management challenge. However, not all roofing companies handle old shingles the same way. At Emmons, our commitment to sustainability has helped transform thousands of tons of roofing waste into useful materials that benefit local communities.
The Traditional Fate of Old Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials used in residential construction. During a roof replacement, crews remove the existing shingles and underlayment before installing the new roofing system.
Historically, most of those old shingles were hauled away and dumped into landfills. Because asphalt shingles are heavy and bulky, they consume a considerable amount of landfill space. With millions of roofs being replaced each year, the environmental impact can be substantial. That’s why more roofing companies and municipalities have begun exploring ways to recycle asphalt shingles rather than simply disposing of them.
Emmons’ Commitment to Shingle Recycling
Recognizing the growing problem of roofing waste, Emmons took proactive steps to become part of the solution. In 2019, Emmons created a dedicated trash sorting facility at its headquarters and hired two additional yard employees specifically to sort recyclable shingle debris from other waste materials. This investment allowed the company to recover and recycle a significant portion of the shingles removed during roof replacement projects.
By 2026, Emmons had recycled more than 10,000 tons of shingles and over 20 million pounds of material into usable road base products. That’s 20 million pounds of roofing waste that did not end up in local landfills.
Turning Roofing Waste Into Roadways
One of the most effective uses for recycled asphalt shingles is in road construction. The asphalt and aggregate materials found in roofing shingles can be processed and incorporated into road base materials, reducing the need for virgin resources.
This “waste to roadway” approach helps divert roofing debris from landfills while giving the materials a valuable second life. Instead of becoming waste, old shingles can help support the infrastructure we rely on every day.
A Big Impact – One Roof at a Time
While a single roof replacement may not seem like much in the grand scheme of things, the numbers quickly add up. In 2025 alone, Emmons recycled 823 tons of shingles from more than 520 individual homes. That’s enough material to make a meaningful difference in reducing landfill waste while supporting sustainable construction practices.
Every roof replacement completed through this recycling program contributes to a larger environmental effort. Homeowners can feel good knowing that their old roofing materials are being responsibly managed rather than discarded unnecessarily.
Why Recycling Shingles Matters
Recycling asphalt shingles offers several important benefits:
- Reduces the amount of waste sent to local landfills
- Conserves valuable landfill space
- Decreases the demand for new raw materials
- Supports sustainable road construction projects
- Helps reduce the environmental footprint of roof replacement projects
As environmental awareness continues to grow, homeowners are increasingly looking for contractors that share their commitment to responsible business practices. Choosing a roofing company that prioritizes recycling is one way to make a positive impact without sacrificing quality or performance.
Emmons Provides More Than Just a New Roof
A roof replacement is about more than installing new shingles. It’s also an opportunity to reduce waste and support environmentally responsible practices. Thanks to Emmons’s investment in recycling infrastructure and sustainability initiatives, thousands of tons of old shingles have been diverted from landfills and transformed into useful roadway materials.
The next time you replace your roof, remember that your old shingles don’t necessarily have to become waste. With Emmons’ recycling program, they can become part of something much bigger. A cleaner environment, reduced landfill usage, and stronger roads for the communities they serve. Contact us today at 1-856-885-6677 to get a quote for your roof replacement.
