How to Safely Dispose of Roofing Shingles

Are you looking for options to dispose of your old roof shingles? If so, we have you covered. Let’s discuss some safe and unsafe ways to dispose of them.  

Can You Burn Shingles?  

Asphalt shingles are flammable and can technically be burned. However, it is not recommended to do so, and it may even be illegal in your area.  

Asphalt shingles are made up of petroleum, which makes them toxic, flammable, and unsafe. Burnt shingles can release toxins into the air such as carcinogenic polyaromatic hydrocarbons, which could potentially spread to the soil and nearby bodies of water.  

Besides polluting the air and harming the environment, burning shingles can lead to a fine or trouble with the authorities. Therefore, you should not burn shingles.  

DIY Disposal 

Disposing of roof shingles yourself, rather than using a professional, can be dangerous. In the roof removal process, you could be exposed to hazardous materials such as asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that can cause tissue inflammation, scarring, and cancer when released into the air.  

It is best to arrange for professional roofers to handle this process. However, if you attempt to do this yourself, make sure to wear proper protective gear.  

If you want to dispose of your roof shingles, the best option is to throw them away in a landfill. At the landfill, the shingles will likely be separated and examined for any potentially hazardous material.  

Use a Dumpster  

Renting a dumpster is a safe and easy way to transfer your old shingles someplace to dispose of them. Although this option can be expensive, using a dumpster is convenient, safer, and makes the disposal process much easier.  

Furthermore, you may not even need to transfer the waste. Check with the dumpster service to see if they can take care of the collected waste so you don’t have to.  

Transport Shingles to a Landfill  

Another option to get rid of your old shingles is to have them hauled to a landfill. This could mean either renting or borrowing a pickup truck or using your own. This will likely require more work, but it may be cheaper. Besides possible transportation fees for the truck and any labor, additional costs may include a dump fee.  

Recycle Old Shingles 

The best way to get rid of waste and support the environment is by recycling. Recycling will reduce waste, help protect landfills from becoming too full, and support the conservation of natural resources. Often, recycled shingles are used to pave roads. This not only reduces the need for oil in road construction, but it can also save money on municipal and public projects.  

Rely on Professional Roof Shingle Disposal  

As mentioned earlier, roof shingles are composed of multiple materials that are bad for the environment, dangerous to inhale, and have toxic effects on the land and surrounding water. As a result, it is in your best interest to allow professionals to handle the roof shingles and determine the safest way to dispose of them.  

We know a safe roof is important for the safety of your household and your home. If you have questions about your roof, need roof repair, or roof shingle disposal, contact us today. CertainTeed professionals are ready to answer all your roofing questions.