Benefits of Recycled Asphalt

Asphalt is used widely in the construction industry. A versatile, durable material, asphalt is often used to create roads and highways, parking lots, airport runways and driveways. Many homeowners choose to install asphalt driveways because they are cost-effective, hard-wearing and aesthetically pleasing. As well as offering functional and aesthetic benefits, asphalt can also be an environmentally-friendly option, as it is often reused, recycled or repurposed. In this article, we’ll discuss how asphalt is reused and whether it’s possible to melt and reuse asphalt from the road.

Recycling and reusing asphalt

Most of us are familiar with asphalt sidewalks, driveways and roads, but did you know that asphalt is one of the most commonly recycled materials in the US? Over 100 million tons of asphalt are reclaimed every year. Canada is following suit, increasing the amount of asphalt that is recycled and reused.

Recycling asphalt offers an array of advantages, including:

• Decreasing the quantity of new oil required during the construction process
• Saving money on waste disposal
• Contributing to the circular economy
• Preserving natural resources
• Lowering prices for customers
• Offering customers an eco-friendly alternative to other materials
• Enhanced cracking resistance for stronger, more durable driveway asphalt paving

Can you melt and reuse asphalt from the road?

In theory, it would be possible to remove asphalt from the road, melt it and reuse it, but there are specific recycling and repurposing processes in place to enhance safety and improve the quality of the product to ensure durability and performance. 

The process of recycling and reusing asphalt involves asphalt milling and pulverization. Milling is the first step. It removes the top layer of asphalt from the road, street or parking lot while preserving the sub-base. Once the milling process is complete, the asphalt is taken to a plant where it is screened and resized ready for reuse. Asphalt pulverization grinds and breaks down the layer at the original site to combine the asphalt and sub-base layers to form a new base from the remaining materials. 

The process of recycling and reusing asphalt using milling and pulverization makes the pavement or driveway even stronger and increases its lifespan.

It is possible to recycle asphalt from roads and driveways several times.

What are the benefits of recycled driveway asphalt paving?

Asphalt driveway paving offers a range of benefits for home and business owners. Asphalt is 100% recyclable, which means that customers have the opportunity to enjoy the advantages of asphalt driveways while also making an eco-friendly choice. Here are some of the key benefits of opting for a recycled asphalt driveway:

• Durable

Durability is essential for homeowners who want to ensure that their driveway will stand the test of time while also protecting their investment. Recycled asphalt is even stronger and more durable than new asphalt. If you have an asphalt driveway fitted by a professional company and you take steps to maintain your driveway, it should last over 15 years. 

• Eco-friendly

Recycling and reusing are beneficial for the environment. Asphalt is 100% recyclable, which means that old driveways, roads and sidewalks can be repurposed and given a new lease of life. The recycling process strengthens the asphalt, improving durability and increasing its lifespan.

• Cost-effective

Asphalt paving is a cost-effective choice. Asphalt lasts for many years and it is cheaper than other materials, such as cement. 

• Efficient drainage

If you live in an area where showers or heavy rain are commonplace, it’s important to consider drainage when selecting driveway materials. Asphalt offers effective, efficient drainage making it an excellent choice for residential, commercial and industrial premises and applications. 

• Reduced noise levels

Most of us like to enjoy peace and quiet when we are working or trying to sleep. Asphalt absorbs noise helping to reduce exterior noise levels. 

Conclusion

Asphalt is used widely to create driveways, roads, parking lots, airport runways and sidewalks. One of the most attractive selling points of asphalt is that it is recyclable. Reusing asphalt is beneficial for the environment, but it also offers additional benefits. The recycling process increases strength and durability and it can also make asphalt driveways a more cost-effective choice. If you are thinking about revamping your driveway, or you’ve moved house and you’re exploring paving options, why not consider recycled driveway asphalt paving?