If you don’t know what you’re doing, dumping that roofing tar in the wrong place can involve a hefty fine.

In this article, we’ll discuss what makes roofing tar hazardous, how to remove it safely, and how much it costs.

Is roofing tar a hazardous waste?

Roofing tar, also known as asphalt roofing cement or asphalt roof sealant, can be classified as a hazardous waste under certain circumstances.

The designation of roofing tar as hazardous waste depends on various factors, including its composition, quantity, and how it is used, as well as the specific environmental regulations and laws of the jurisdiction where it is being used or disposed of.

In general, roofing tar contains bitumen, which is a black, sticky substance derived from petroleum and commonly used in roofing applications.

Bitumen itself is not classified as hazardous waste, but certain additives or contaminants in roofing tar can make it hazardous.

For example, roofing tar may contain hazardous substances such as solvents, heavy metals, or other chemicals that can pose risks to human health and the environment.

If roofing tar is used or disposed of improperly, such as by being released into the environment or improperly stored, it can potentially contaminate soil, water, and air and may be subject to hazardous waste regulations.

These regulations vary by jurisdiction and may include requirements for proper storage, handling, transportation, and disposal of roofing tar, as well as potential reporting and permitting requirements.

It’s important to check with local environmental authorities or waste management agencies to determine the specific regulations and requirements for roofing tar in your area and to handle it in accordance with applicable laws and best practices to ensure proper environmental stewardship.

If you have a large quantity of roofing tar or suspect it may contain hazardous substances, it is recommended that you seek guidance from qualified professionals or hazardous waste disposal experts.

What are the proper methods for disposing of roofing tar?

Hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs)

These are facilities that are specifically permitted and equipped to handle hazardous waste, including roofing tar, which is classified as hazardous waste.

They are designed to safely manage and dispose of hazardous waste in compliance with environmental regulations.

• Ensure that the TSDF is permitted and authorized to handle hazardous waste, including roofing tar, and comply with all applicable regulations.
• Properly package and label the roofing tar according to the TSDF’s requirements to prevent leaks, spills, or other hazards during transportation and disposal.
• Use appropriate containers and vehicles that comply with regulations for hazardous waste transportation, and follow any guidelines or restrictions provided by the TSDF.
• Keep documentation of the disposal process, including transportation records, disposal receipts, and any other required paperwork for regulatory compliance.

Solid waste landfills

Some solid waste landfills may accept non-hazardous roofing tar for disposal, depending on local regulations and guidelines.

These landfills are permitted and designed to accept solid waste, including construction and demolition debris, which may include roofing tar that is not classified as hazardous waste.

• Confirm if the landfill in your area accepts roofing tar and comply with all local regulations and guidelines.
• Package and label the roofing tar properly according to the landfill’s requirements to prevent environmental contamination or other hazards.
• Use appropriate containers and vehicles for transportation that comply with regulations for solid waste transportation, and follow any guidelines or restrictions provided by the landfill.
• Be aware of any disposal fees or charges associated with using a landfill for roofing tar disposal and plan accordingly.

Recycling facilities

Some recycling facilities may accept roofing tar for recycling, depending on local regulations and the specific composition of the roofing tar.

These facilities may process roofing tar into other products, such as asphalt pavement or shingles, for reuse in various applications.

• Research and confirm if the recycling facility in your area accepts roofing tar for recycling and comply with their requirements.
• Package and label the roofing tar properly according to the recycling facility’s requirements to ensure it is suitable for recycling.
• Use appropriate containers and vehicles for transportation that comply with regulations for waste transportation, and follow any guidelines or restrictions provided by the recycling facility.
• Be aware of any fees or charges associated with recycling roofing tar and plan accordingly.

Specialty waste disposal facilities

There may be specialty waste disposal facilities that accept roofing tar, especially if it has unique properties or characteristics that require specialized handling.

These facilities may have specific permits and equipment for managing and disposing of specialized waste streams, including roofing tar.

• Confirm if the specialty waste disposal facility is equipped to handle roofing tar or similar specialized waste streams, and comply with their requirements.
• Properly package and label the roofing tar according to the disposal facility’s requirements to prevent leaks, spills, or other hazards during transportation and disposal.
• Use appropriate containers and vehicles for transportation that comply with regulations for waste transportation, and follow any guidelines or restrictions provided by the disposal facility.
• Keep documentation of the disposal process, including transportation records, disposal receipts, and any other required paperwork for regulatory compliance.

Do you have to pay to dispose of roofing tar?

The cost of disposing of roofing tar can range from $250 to $500 or more, depending on the specific circumstances.

It’s important to check with the disposal facility or service provider directly to inquire about their fee structure and any additional charges that may apply.

Some facilities may offer discounts for large quantities or bulk disposal, while others may have minimum fees or additional charges for certain types of waste.

What’s the cheapest way to get rid of roofing tar?

• Check for local recycling options: Some recycling facilities may accept roofing tar for recycling, especially if it is in a solidified or hardened form. This can be a cost-effective option as recycling facilities may charge lower fees compared to hazardous waste disposal facilities. Contact local recycling facilities to inquire about their acceptance criteria and any associated fees.
• Look for specialized waste disposal events or programs: Some local authorities or waste management agencies may organize special waste disposal events or programs where you can dispose of roofing tar at a discounted rate or for free. Check with your local authorities or waste management agencies for any such programs in your area.
• Consider solid waste landfill disposal: If the roofing tar is not classified as hazardous waste and meets the criteria for disposal in a solid waste landfill, it may be a cost-effective option. Landfill disposal fees are typically lower than hazardous waste disposal fees. Contact local landfills to inquire about their acceptance criteria and any associated fees.
• Utilize household hazardous waste (HHW) collection programs: Some areas have HHW collection programs where you can dispose of small quantities of household hazardous waste, including roofing tar, at designated collection sites for free or at a nominal fee. Contact your local HHW program or waste management agency to inquire about their acceptance criteria, collection schedules, and fees.
• Seek cost-effective disposal options for large quantities: If you have a large quantity of roofing tar to dispose of, consider reaching out to specialized waste disposal facilities, solid waste landfills, or recycling facilities to negotiate bulk disposal rates or explore cost-effective options.

Can you bury roofing tar to dispose of it?

Burying roofing tar in the ground, such as in a backyard or landfill, is generally not recommended as it can potentially contaminate soil, groundwater, and nearby water sources.

Roofing tar may contain hazardous substances that can leach into the environment, posing risks to human health and the environment.

Burying roofing tar without proper permits or approvals may also be illegal in many jurisdictions.

Can you burn roofing tar to dispose of it?

Burning roofing tar as a means of disposal is generally not recommended, as it can release harmful pollutants into the air, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, and other potentially toxic substances.

Burning roofing tar without proper permits or approvals may also be illegal in many jurisdictions, as it can contribute to air pollution and harm public health.

Can you just dump old roofing tar in the waste bins?

Dumping roofing tar in regular waste bins, such as household trash or commercial waste bins, is generally not recommended as it can contaminate other waste streams and potentially harm waste management workers.

Roofing tar is often considered hazardous waste and should be disposed of properly in accordance with local regulations and guidelines for hazardous waste disposal.

Are there recycling options for roofing tar?

• Recycling of solidified or hardened roofing tar: Some recycling facilities may accept solidified or hardened roofing tar for recycling. Solidified or hardened roofing tar can be recycled into other construction materials or used as a fuel source in certain industrial processes. Check with local recycling facilities to inquire about their acceptance criteria and recycling processes for solidified or hardened roofing tar.
• Recycling of specific types of roofing tar: Certain types of roofing tar, such as coal tar pitch, may have specialized recycling options available. For example, coal tar pitch, which is derived from coal tar, can be recycled into pavement products or used in other applications. However, the availability of such recycling options may be limited, and it’s important to check with specialized recycling facilities or waste management agencies for guidance.
• Recycling of packaging materials: If the roofing tar was packaged in containers made of recyclable materials such as metal, plastic, or paper, the packaging materials may be recyclable. Separate the packaging materials from the roofing tar and dispose of them in the appropriate recycling bins or facilities, following local recycling guidelines.

What are some ways to reuse roofing tar?

• Repair or patching of roofs: If the roofing tar is still in good condition and meets the necessary requirements for repairing or patching roofs, it can be reused for those purposes. Roofing tar can be used to seal cracks, gaps, or holes in existing roofs, providing an effective barrier against water penetration and extending the lifespan of the roof.
• Asphalt-based projects: Roofing tar, particularly asphalt-based roofing tar, can be used in various asphalt-based projects, such as paving driveways, roads, or parking lots. It can be blended with asphalt mixtures to improve their performance, durability, and water resistance.
• Construction or DIY projects: Roofing tar can be used in construction or DIY projects where a water-resistant or sealing material is required. It can be used to seal joints, seams, or gaps in various applications, such as in foundations, walls, or other structures.
• Art or craft projects: Roofing tar can be used in art or craft projects for creating texture or visual effects. It can be applied to surfaces, such as canvas, wood, or metal, to create unique patterns, textures, or finishes.
• Donation or exchange: If you have excess or unused roofing tar that is still in good condition, consider donating it to local community organizations, schools, or other individuals or businesses who may be able to use it. You can also explore exchange programs or online platforms where you can offer unused roofing tar to others who may need it.

What if you get turned away for trying to dispose of roofing tar?

If you get turned away when trying to dispose of roofing tar, it’s crucial to follow proper procedures and comply with local regulations.

Firstly, contact your local waste management authorities for guidance on approved disposal methods, facilities, and any specific requirements for disposing of roofing tar in your area.

They can provide valuable information and guidance on how to properly dispose of the roofing tar in compliance with local regulations.

Secondly, consider alternative disposal options, such as authorized hazardous waste disposal facilities, recycling centers, or specialized facilities that accept roofing tar.

Some facilities may require pre-treatment or special packaging of the roofing tar prior to disposal, so it’s important to inquire about their requirements beforehand.

Also, try to explore reuse or recycling options for roofing tar that is still in good condition and meets the necessary requirements.

Avoid improper disposal methods, such as burying, burning, or dumping roofing tar in regular waste bins or unauthorized locations, as these can harm the environment and result in legal liabilities.

What are the health and environmental hazards of roofing tar?

Roofing tar can pose several hazards due to its composition. It typically contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxic chemicals, which can have detrimental effects on human health and the environment.

Inhalation of fumes or vapors from roofing tar can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms.

Skin contact with roofing tar can lead to skin irritation, burns, and dermatitis. Ingestion of roofing tar can cause gastrointestinal issues, nausea, and other health problems.

Also, the production, use, and disposal of roofing tar can contribute to environmental pollution. VOCs released from roofing tar can contribute to air pollution and smog formation and can also have adverse effects on plants, animals, and aquatic life when they are released into the environment.

Improper disposal of roofing tar can contaminate soil, groundwater, and surface water, posing risks to local ecosystems and human health.

Is roofing tar considered hazardous waste in all states?

The classification of roofing tar as hazardous waste can vary by state and local regulations. In some states or localities, roofing tar may be considered hazardous waste due to its potential to contain hazardous substances such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, or other toxic chemicals.

In such cases, special handling, transportation, and disposal requirements may apply, and the roofing tar may need to be disposed of at authorized hazardous waste disposal facilities.

However, it’s important to note that the classification of roofing tar as hazardous waste may depend on its specific composition, intended use, and disposal method.

In some cases, roofing tar that does not contain hazardous substances or has been properly treated or recycled may not be considered hazardous waste.

How long does roofing tar last in the bucket?

Unopened buckets of roofing tar can last for several months to a few years if stored properly in a cool, dry place and kept tightly sealed to prevent air and moisture from entering.

Once a bucket of roofing tar has been opened, its shelf life may be shorter, typically ranging from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the conditions in which it is stored.

Exposure to air and moisture can accelerate the aging and drying processes of roofing tar, which can affect its performance and quality.

Extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and other environmental factors can also impact the shelf life of roofing tar.

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