Recycled Wood/Plastic Composite Lumber

Mix of wood fibers and waste plastics turns into durable material

Recycled wood/plastic composite lumber is one of the prime uses for recycled plastic trash bags and waste wood fibers. The composite material is used to produce building products such as decking, door and window frames, and exterior moldings. Recycled wood/plastic composite lumber typically consists of a 50/50 mix of wood fibers from recovered saw dust and waste plastics that include high-density polyethylene, PVC, and others.

Manufacturers claim that products produced with recycled wood/plastic lumber are more durable than conventional preservative-treated lumber. The plastic encapsulates and binds the wood together to resist moisture penetration and degradation from fungal rot. As there is no need for painting or sealing, and given the material's durability, composite lumber products cost less to maintain than wood decks, railings, and fences. Also, these products contain no toxic chemicals such as those used in conventional treated lumber.

In general, recycled wood/plastic composites are cost-competitive with high-end decking materials such as finger jointed pine and redwood, but are significantly more expensive than standard treated products. Retail costs for 2 x 6-inch material are approximately $2.00 per linear foot.

Courtesy of PATH

www.pathnet.org/homeowners