Traditionally, concrete that had reached the end of its lifespan was disposed of in landfills. A new trend has emerged that finds concrete aggregate being recycled via crushing machines and reused for new construction. Recycling concrete aggregate has a number of significant economic and environmental benefits.
It is predicted that half of North America’s existing infrastructure will need replacing in the next 20 years. Recycling concrete reduces the impact on landfill space requirements and is better for the environment by eliminating the pollution created by trucking concrete debris to landfills.
The desire to keep construction costs down is as strong as ever and recycling concrete avoids the costly hauling and landfill disposal fees. In addition, portable recycling machinery that is brought on-site to crush concrete is becoming more commonplace, which further reduces trucking fees and pollution. The ability to recycle concrete can also potentially lead to extra LEED points under the Sustainable Sites section.
Crushing facilities accept only uncontaminated concrete, which must be free of trash, wood, paper and other such materials. While most concrete treated with a traditional tar or petroleum based waterproofing membrane cannot be recycled, Kryton’s integral crystalline waterproofing products allow for concrete to be recycled at the end of life.
To ensure you and your structure benefits from the economic and environmental impacts of recycled concrete, choose a waterproofing solution that won’t force you to throw your concrete into the landfill.