You may already be aware that the asphalt being laid down for new roads and patching older roads is largely made up of recycled material.  In fact, asphalt is one of America’s most recycled materials.  You may also be aware that, in some cases, the recycled material comes from roofing shingles as well as roads. 

Using RAS in Asphalt Mixtures

The use of recycled asphalt shingles, or RAS, has been fairly limited in the past, though, mostly because roofing materials contain a lot of extra material besides the asphalt itself.  For example, roofing shingles may have nails, plastic, fiberboard, paper, cellophane, and wood.  This makes the recycling process much more challenging. 

Additionally, local and state governments have been waiting on additional studies to be done regarding whether asphalt-using RAS is as reliable as asphalt that does not use it. These studies are increasingly showing that asphalt that uses RAS is as reliable and durable as more standard asphalt mixes, provided they are properly mixed.  Therefore, the use of RAS mixtures is on the rise.

The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) is continuing its work on keeping Milwaukee “green.” In July 2012, an article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel revealed that MMSD began required rooftop plants and the installation of other “green infrastructures” to help collect and absorb storm water. MMSD announced in a recent article that permeable pavement will be used along portions of three Milwaukee county roads.

One goal of this work is to improve the water quality in nearby wetlands and along rivers. “Reducing the volume of soil and sand eroding from the shoulder and capturing storm water laden with pollutants washed off the pavement will improve water quality.”

We talk a lot about the benefits of winter snow plowing and snow removal service.  However, sometimes plowing and snow removal can be hard on a property.  For example, landscaping features can take a real beating, and existing potholes might increase in size from the heavy plowing trucks.  Here are some winter preparation tips to help you make it through the snow removal season without damage.

Have you ever considered hiring a professional snow removal and snow plowing company?  We think it’s a good idea for everyone involved. Here are a few of the reasons why.

Reason #1: Peace of Mind

Dealing with snow and ice can be risky. Potential injuries can come from slips or falls and exertion. If you hire a professional snow removal company, you’re moving much of the liability risk to them. They should be insured for general liability, auto liability, and worker’s compensation. If anything should happen to vehicles or workers during professional snow removal, you’ll have the peace of mind that coverage is in place.