Recycled Plastic Decking – An Eco-Friendly Alternative to Wood Decking

In addition to recycling wood by-products, TREX also partners with schools for their annual Trex School Recycling Challenge. Their program helps kids learn the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Manufacturers of capped composite decking wrap the core with hard PVC on 1-3 sides to guard against mold, mildew and warping. Some manufacturers also use a capping process to coat the grooved fastener notches for added protection.

Recyclable

Recycled plastic decking is made from a combination of recycled plastic and reclaimed timber. This makes it an eco-friendly alternative to wood decking and reduces waste going into landfill sites. It also looks good throughout its lifespan and requires less maintenance than wood decking.

Trex is one of the largest consumer film recyclers in the country. The company takes in all kinds of plastic film, from case overwraps to newspaper sleeves and sandwich bags. The recycled material goes into composite decking and other outdoor products like benches and fencing.

While PVC is 100% recyclable, composites aren’t as easily recyclable as pure synthetic materials. This is because they use a process called co-extrusion to mix plastic and wood fibers together. The wood fibers make it difficult to separate out the plastic for reuse.

Both PVC and composites can be made with a high degree of sustainability, but they have some drawbacks. For example, both expand and contract in certain climates, and they aren’t as workable with standard construction tools.

Low Maintenance

For homeowners who want to minimize the amount of work they’ll need to do on their deck, there are several low maintenance options to consider. These include wood composite, uPVC, and plastic decking that looks like real wood.

Wood composite and PVC are made from recycled materials such as milk jugs and plastic bags, and are designed to look and feel like traditional wood. They’re also less prone to mold and mildew. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these types of decks still require regular cleaning and may warp in hot climates.

Composite and PVC are also more expensive than other low maintenance decking options. But it’s worth noting that many manufacturers are now using a modified wood called Kebony that is not only beautiful, but also resistant to moisture. This is the best choice for those who want a natural-looking deck that requires minimal maintenance.

Durable

Unlike traditional wood decks, which must be resealed every year or two to prevent mildew and mold, plastic decking stays stain-resistant and splinter-free. It also won’t rot or attract insects. It doesn’t need sanding or sealing, either. In fact, it can last up to 50 years without deteriorating.

When composite first hit the market, it resembled medium density fiberboard and was monochromatic in color. Overzealous marketing and wishful thinking led to unrealistic expectations about maintenance. But manufacturers have since made a lot of progress.

Most of the best products combine organic wood fibers with polymers and/or pigments for strength, slip resistance, and a natural look. They may also feature three- or four-sided polymer caps to improve water resistance and protect the core. They often use hidden fasteners for a more finished look. Like PVC, composites expand and contract with temperature changes and might require periodic re-tightening of connectors. You should consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure you install your deck properly.

Affordable

As with any construction project, the size and design of the deck can significantly impact the overall cost. Additional features like railings, stairs, built-in seating and pergolas can also drive up costs. Purchasing materials in bulk and shopping during the off-season can help reduce prices.

Trex is a popular composite decking brand that combines recycled wood and plastic to create an eco-friendly material. Their products use 97 percent recycled plastic, which includes everything from milk jugs to plastic bags, and they contain no organic material. The company offers a number of color options and finishes that can mimic the look of different types of wood.

Chicago-based Lumberock is another manufacturer that uses recycled plastic and minerals to produce its decking. The material doesn’t include any wood or organic material, which eliminates issues like water absorption and mold growth. Lumberock offers a few product lines, including capped composite and PVC, with different color options for each.



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