Creating a more sustainable environment means looking for more ways to recycle and reuse resources. Even materials such as asphalt can be successfully recycled for further use. According to the Federal Highway Administration, around 80% of asphalt that's removed from roadways can be reused when recycled properly. Asphalt paving companies are discovering more about the benefits of this process. This article will take a look at how this process works.

Why Is Asphalt Recycling Important?

Asphalt recycling is important because it can reduce waste and it helps to save taxpayers in the United States a lot of money each year. As populations grow and the need for more paved areas grows, it's increasingly vital that this material be effectively recycled. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), about 90 million tons of asphalt are reclaimed and reused each year by asphalt paving companies. This means that companies are still able to complete their necessary projects without having to rely on new asphalt, helping them save significantly.

How Is Asphalt Recycled by Asphalt Paving Companies?

There are different types of asphalt recycling methods, but typically the recycling process will follow these steps. First, the asphalt is removed in chunks and added to an asphalt recycler or reclaimer. Water and some additives are combined with this material. If a hot mix asphalt method is being used, then the materials are tumbled and heated. There's also a method called cold recycling which doesn't use heat and conserves energy.

Asphalt cement, which is used initially to create cohesion in the asphalt, is often left undisturbed and can continue to be used for future uses. Because there's often no need to add more adhesive, recycling asphalt is truly a sustainable method of reusing resources. Once the asphalt is softened it can easily be reapplied for other uses. Call an experienced asphalt service to learn more about the recycling process.

Using recycled asphalt products is a great way to reduce costs during construction or paving projects and to help the environment as well. If you're looking to work with asphalt paving companies, be sure to work with ones that recycle to ensure the project can be done without breaking the bank and to make an impact on the environment. To learn more about the benefits of asphalt recycling and to schedule a project, call Two Brothers Paving today.