
Scraped asphalt is a byproduct of the construction process. Asphalt is scraped from old roads and parking lots that have been replaced with new pavement or when traffic lanes have been narrowed to improve safety. At first glance, it may seem like this material is just waste, but scraped asphalt can contribute to sustainability efforts in several ways.
In this blog post, we will discuss different ways scraped asphalt can help sustain the environment.
Benefits of Recycling Asphalt
One of the most critical benefits scraped asphalt provides is in reducing landfill waste. Asphalt roads contribute to around one-third of all roads in the United States, with each mile containing 200 metric tons on average. When scraped material is reused for other purposes instead of being sent to a landfill, it eliminates unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation.
Another benefit that scraped asphalt provides is cost-effectiveness. When scraped asphalt is reused for other purposes, it reduces the cost of road construction and repair, saving taxpayers roughly $11 per ton, including transportation costs. It also provides a more budget-friendly option that allows cities to contribute money towards education or public works programs instead of towards road construction.
It also provides economic benefits because it reduces greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change and global warming.
Various Uses of Scraped Asphalt
- Scraped asphalt can be reused in new pavement projects. Instead of purchasing virgin materials for these projects, recycled material is often used when there are readily available sources like scraped asphalt that would otherwise end up in landfills.
- Scraped asphalt can also be repurposed into other products such as road base or topsoil.
- Scraped asphalt can help reduce stormwater runoff. For instance, using it as part of road bases or other hardscape materials helps increase infiltration and decrease the amount of water that flows into local waterways.
- Scraped asphalt can be used to build gravel roads or parking lots to prevent soil erosion around these areas. Soil erosion affects the environment negatively and causes damage to property and infrastructure, so having scraped asphalt that is capable of preventing this would provide a massive benefit for cities everywhere!
With a bit of research and determination, you can find the right company to help turn your asphalt pavement into an eco-friendly solution. Affordable Sealing & Striping in Longmont is one such business that specializes in these types of projects. We have been working with homeowners for years to give them peace of mind knowing that they are doing their part to protect our environment from pollution while still getting the finishing touches on their driveway or parking area quickly and affordably.
Whether it be crack sealing existing pavement or stripping old paint off before applying new line striping, we will gladly answer any questions you have and provide a free estimate at the same time!


