According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the United States generates approximately 11 million tons of asphalt shingle waste each year. These are scraps hauled away from natural disaster cleanups, construction sites, or just regular roof repair.
There are recycling centers that convert the shingles into fresh asphalt, duel, roadway patches and new roofing. But if you’re feeling creative, there are fun ways to turn scrap shingles into useful and beautiful pieces of art. Try one of these:
Doormat
There’s no other home decor as welcoming as a homemade doormat. All you have to do is hot glue a few tiles from your residential roofing in the shape you please and your mat is done. You can also spray paint over your creation. This is perfect for the rough surface of the shingles.
Flower Pots
House your plants in some recycled asphalt shingle pots. Find four tiles of the same height and length. Stack them on top of the other and connect all sides with screws. This garden project is easy to build and can make for an awesome conversation starter.
Painting
With your scrap tiles and some paint, you can create a masterpiece that you can hang on your wall. Rinse off your existing shingles to remove all dirt and residue, then wait for them to try. Next, add a layer of primer so that your paint colors will show nicely. Lastly, paint each tile however you want and display your recycled art inside your home.
If you are planning for a complete re-roof or to get some repairs done, find a roofing contractor who is dedicated to green practices and will recycle your old shingles. M and A Exterior Home Improvement provides sustainable roofing solutions. Call us today at (757) 942-2700 or fill out our contact form. We serve clients in Williamsburg, VA, and surrounding areas.