Recycled plastic lumber is the core component of our product range here at BRP, but have you ever wondered exactly how the lumber planks are made?
By using UK-sourced plastic waste, we’re able to produce durable and sustainable lumber planks that can be used almost anywhere you would use traditional materials.
The lumber process
The process begins by gathering tonnes of agricultural, industrial and commercial plastic waste. The plastic covers commonly seen on hay bales across the UK are the main ingredient of our lumber planks. The covers are brought to our manufacturing site, where they are shredded and and thoroughly washed to ensure that all contaminants are completely removed.
After being dried and sorted, the material is then chopped into pellets small enough to be melted down and formed into solid plastic lumber planks of various profiles and colours. While it’s a more complex process than the production of ordinary plastic, it keeps plastic waste out of landfill, which in turn is much healthier for the planet. As BRP Managing Director Jason Elliott says:
“The collection of waste – washing it, shredding it – these are all processes that aren’t involved when things are made out virgin plastic, but we think it’s worth it. Our customers think it’s worth it. In fact, with a 25-year guarantee, it’s worth it for the environment as well. This stuff is going to last a very long time.”
Lumber uses
As well as being the main component of our recycled plastic products, our lumber planks are incredibly versatile, and there’s nothing we like more than seeing the fascinating projects that our canny customers come up with.
If a potential build would normally use timber, it’s highly likely that recycled plastic lumber can be used as a durable and sustainable alternative. Given that it will never rot, split or splinter, it’s even better than wood in terms of longevity – good for the planet and your pocket. Here are just a couple of our favourite lumber projects.
Gower Bird Hospital in Swansea chose our plastic lumber planks for the construction of its aviaries, in which sick and injured birds are nursed back to full health. It’s genuinely gratifying to see our products used for such an excellent cause.
We also loved this corner sofa and table that was designed and constructed from our lumber planks by Stephen Dale at his home in Sheffield. Stephen told us:
“Recycled plastic obviously fits the bill of being maintenance-free. It’s is an extremely strong, versatile product. As it’s recycled, I was also aware of helping the environment.
“We were really pleased with the finished look and feel of the finished corner sofa. The accompanying table just finished it off. I would definitely use recycled plastic again.”
The possibilities really are endless – if you can imagine it, then we’re more than happy to help with your project. Get in touch!
Why choose our recycled plastic lumber planks?
Our recycled plastic lumber is a durable and sustainable choice for lumber projects. Unlike timber, it won’t absorb water and will never rot, split or splinter. It’s resistant to UV and the growth of mould or algae, so won’t get slimy and will wipe dry instantly. It will never need treating and require no maintenance whatsoever. If you want to hose your recycled plastic lumber down a couple of times a year to get rid of the dust, then feel free, but it won’t suffer if you don’t.
It’s guaranteed for 25 years – although we expect it to last much longer – and at the end of its useful life, it can be safely recycled again. It’s the perfect choice for outdoor constructions, soggy environments and inaccessible corners. It performs exceptionally well in marine environments and bears up brilliantly to salty sea winds, as well as permanent immersion in water. It’s approved for use in SSSIs (Sites of Special Scientific Interest), so you can be assured that it will cause no harm to the local flora and fauna.
Who are we?
British Recycled Plastic is proud to offer a range of products that are not only incredibly tough and durable, but actively help to dismantle the UK’s domestic waste mountain and keep plastic out of landfill. Engineered from 100% British waste, our products are guaranteed for 25 years and supplied to thousands of organisations and private homes across the UK. We’re making waste wonderful.
Visit British Recycled Plastics Webshop Get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team by phone or email: 01422 419 555 [email protected]
