PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is the main component that is used for windows, pipes, fittings and rigid exterior door frames.
With such a wide range of uses and being 100% recyclable, it is crucial that we recycle all our unwanted PVC items and offcuts. In the same way that plastic, on average, takes 450 years to naturally biodegrade, PVC does not naturally break down efficiently. Consequently, when these materials reach landfill they can prove disastrous for the environment.
As a result, disposing of and recycling PVC waste correctly to ensure that it is diverted away from landfill should be at the top of all our priorities. It is also key to remember that recycling such a popular building material also boasts many economic benefits, the main being that recycled PVC is a much cheaper and more reliable construction material than primary or ‘Virgin’ PVC.
Our PVC Waste Recycling
Our PVC recycling process is simple. First, we sort, then we separate and finally we shred and recycle:
After receiving any unwanted PVC we ensure that the material is precisely sorted and separated from other materials, i.e if we receive PVC window frames we will ensure that all the glass panes are fully removed and the PVC is segregated. From here it will be shredded into piles and recycled.
Recycling PVC can follow three main processes:
- The first is mechanical PVC recycling. This process involves grinding the PVC into small pieces which are then melted to be reused as new PVC products.
- The second process is feedstock PVC recycling. This process begins with breaking the PVC surplus right down into its chemical molecules which are then reformed together to make fresh PVC sheets. These sheets can be sent to manufacturers or can be used and combined with other materials to create new products.
- Thirdly, PVC can also be recycled via a VinyLoop recycling process. This final option involves filtering out all complex materials from the PVC – i.e. rubbers, metals, textiles, other plastics – using a solvent. Then the surplus is ground into a PVC granule and sold on for melting or combining.
Responsible PVC Recycling
By recycling your unwanted PVC with Aasvogel it will be processed sustainably and consciously. This means that you will be eliminating any chance of it being sent to landfill.
It is key that all PVC offcuts and surplus products are disposed of correctly. To ensure this, please put directly in our provided bins and skips and not in plastic sacks or trays as this will affect the recycling process.
PVC Recycling at Aasvogel
At Aasvogel we are fully committed to providing cost-effective recycling solutions for all our clients. To guarantee this, we are continually reviewing our recycling processes to ensure we offer recycling methods that are as sustainable and as environmentally-friendly as possible.
If you would like to find out more information about our waste management solutions, skip hire or PVC window recycling methods then please contact us.