Jul 26, 2016

Keeping used materials out of landfills is a central goal of any industry that is attempting to become more sustainable. Finding creative ways to repurpose these materials is an added challenge, but one that ASTM Committee D08 on Roofing and Waterproofing has begun to tackle with a proposed new standard, WK46625, Guide for Establishing a Recycle Program for Roof Covers.

"With less space in landfills, especially near heavily populated areas, and with higher fees for disposing waste, it makes sense to promote recycling," says ASTM member Joseph Schwetz, technical director for Sika Sarnafil. "By recycling their roofing products, a building owner can promote the fact that they are working toward sustainable goals. Using this standard, owners and designers will have a peer-reviewed option for inclusion in project specifications to ensure the roofing membrane is being properly handled."

WK46625 will cover all types of roof and waterproofing products. "WK46625 will suggest methods and procedures for the recycling of waterproofing materials," says Schwetz. "Options will include the recycled materials being made into new waterproofing covers, into other products and accessories or for a completely different end use."

Companies will be able to use WK46625 to develop their own recycling programs to reduce the amount of roofing materials destined for landfills. Materials include both roof covers at the end of service life and those that are being removed for other reasons.

Subcommittee D08.24 on Sustainability is developing WK46625. In addition to recycling, the subcommittee is working to develop sustainable roofing standards in such areas of product durability and vegetative roofing. All interested parties are invited to join D08.24 as it continues to develop WK46625 and other proposed standards.

CONTACT Technical Information: Joseph J. Schwetz, Sika Sarnafil • Canton, Mass. • tel +1.781.332.3224 | ASTM Staff: Joseph Hugo • tel +1.610.832.9740 | Upcoming Meeting: June 14-17 • June Committee Week • Anaheim, Calif.