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If you work with wood regularly, then you will undoubtedly encounter different types of wood that you can use for various aspects of a project. There are many wood types that you can use, including cherry, oak, cherry and pine.
I’m going to add something else. Im going to mention the idea of plastic lumber. Yes, you read that right: plastic lumber.
Some of you might be thinking that plastic and lumber are not compatible. After all, surely any lumber has to refer to wood, and, well, wood is not made of plastic.
You are absolutely correct. However, it is just a term.
It does however, offer some interesting thoughts. I believe the most important thought people will have is about the differences between natural and plastic wood. So, thats what Im going to focus on.
What Is Plastic Lumber?
But first, what do I even mean by plastic lumber? I feel its important to address this point, to begin with, as it makes it easier to go ahead and identify the differences between the two materials.
Plastic lumber is made from plastic. There are no surprises. You can make it from completely new or recycled plastic. This is a wonderful idea.
You can find slight differences in the plastic itself, depending on the approach the manufacturer wishes to take. You have many options.
This plastic lumber is still available in different sizes. They can be as small as 24 inches or larger, and they can even be used to make decking boards.
Also, it comes in different colors, so its easier to blend effectively with the rest of your project, or even if you have a specific color scheme in mind.
Plastic lumber is becoming more accessible, which I am very aware of. It used to be more of a specialty product, but thats no longer the case. Its also viewed by some as being a better alternative for the planet. You can make it from recycled plastic, which is a way to help you go green. Also, no trees are cut down in the making of it.
But as you will see, there are a number of differences between the two options for me to take you through.
Difference 1: Plastic Is Resistant To Rot
The first difference is one of the more obvious: plastic lumber is resistant to rot. This is a significant difference in decking that will be exposed to all weather conditions for many years.
Although you can do a lot to treat wood, even the best wood treatment will eventually lead to wood rot. It happens naturally, and you cannot stop it.
Mother nature is quite adept at getting into natural materials. Protective coat after protective coat can be added, but mother nature will still work her magic and demolish wood. This is the kind of thing you find yourself obsessed with.
But mother nature comes up against a significant stumbling block when she tries to attach plastic lumber. Plastic is not as resistant to weather conditions. It is possible for something to go wrong with plastic lumber, particularly if it was made with faults, but this is highly unlikely.
This is a crucial difference to be aware of. It depends on where your project is situated. It could be that the weather is not important to your project, or that you are open to changing the future.
Plastic lumber is the best choice if you need a material that can withstand the elements and resist rot. Plastic lumber would have to be damaged by the elements.
Difference 2: Less Upkeep Is Required For Plastic Lumber
Plastic lumber is less maintenance than wood. This is due to the material. You just do not have to include as much maintenance, or even checking of the material, with plastic lumber as you do with wood.
Decking is also something I want to point out. Plastic lumber boards for decking will not become as slippery as wood. Once again, thats because of how wood reacts to the conditions. Plastic lumber is often equipped with a built-in grip when used for decking.
Plastic doesn’t fade as quickly as wood. It doesn’t need to be varnished or stained. It takes less effort to brush it down and keep it clean. Honestly, this sounds like a difference that would appeal to so many people.
I do see plastic lumber as being the easy way forward. This is the perfect option if you’re busy and don’t have the time or energy to take care of things like this.
There is something appealing about being observant and making repairs as needed. Plastic lumber removes that from you, which may be an issue for some people.
Difference 3: Plastic Is More Durable
Plastic can withstand greater impact than wood, even though it is quite durable. This is due to the fact that plastic doesn’t rot and frost won’t be able to penetrate the material.
Any individual who has had some type of outdoor project will already know how you do need to periodically check the status of the wood to ensure no problems are developing. Its also not unheard of for you to have to change some part that has just not survived to the same extent as other parts.
You just do not have that issue with plastic lumber. You can put it in place and know it will not drastically change because of the conditions. Sure, it may be possible for certain parts to degenerate over time, but we are talking about absolutely exceptional circumstances and also something that is exceptionally rare.
So, when it comes to durability, then there is most certainly a difference between the two. Plastic can withstand far more punishment than wood, which I agree with. This is especially true when it comes to decking. The wood becomes less durable the more you use it.
The only real problem with plastic lumber is that direct sunlight can bleach the color over an extended period. As a result, it may look dull and washed out; at least with wood, you can simply revarnish or stain it.
This is an excellent example of how durability can be both beneficial and detrimental in different ways. This makes it easy to reflect on how durability is perceived and what’s most important.
Difference 4: Wood Looks Realer
But if its the more natural look you want, theres no comparison. Plastic lumber may look clean but it will not look natural.
This is where wood truly shines.
No matter what manufacturer of plastic lumber tries, they will always make something with the plastic effect. It does stand out, and it is immediately apparent that its not real wood.
Now, I know some people just will not mind that at all. But, I prefer the real thing over something artificial trying to look natural. I feel it just makes it stand out even more, and for all the wrong reasons.
Different 5: Plastic Is Stronger
Plastic is stronger than wood. This strength difference is primarily thanks to plastic lumber being utterly resistant to water, as its the water working its way into the core of the wood that will weaken it over time.
Plastic lumber eliminates this problem. It simply sits on top of the plastic and doesn’t penetrate it, which is amazing. It is easy to see that preventing water seepage through the plastic lumber will ensure its core remains intact.
Wood is still strong, but longevity is what we are referring to. It only remains strong if you care for it correctly, and thats where a difference comes in, as I mentioned earlier.
This type of plastic should not be considered fragile. Although some plastic may not be as strong as others, this composite plastic makes it extremely rare to have any weaknesses.
You can be concerned about wood’s weaknesses. There are issues such as splitting that you can’t see until you cut it, or wood that is too warped.
Plastic eliminates the need to worry about these types of things.
Difference 6: Cost-Efficiency
As the cost of each material can often be a major deciding factor, I would like to take a moment to highlight it. When you do that, you need to be prepared to look at not only the initial cost but the upkeep costs in the future.
Plastic lumber is often more expensive than wood. This means that your initial investment for your project will be more expensive. Im not saying it will skyrocket the cost to you, but there will be a difference.
But you must look beyond the cost to see the impact on the money side.
Over a period of time, plastic lumber works out to be more cost-efficient if you are dealing with a project that is outdoors, such as decking. You don’t have to worry about wood rotting or adding protection layers to prevent it from rotting faster than necessary.
Those costs add up, and yet they are removed from the equation when you use plastic lumber instead of wood.
However, I do know that cost is not always an issue when a project is being completed. Be aware, however, that plastic lumber can be significantly more expensive than wood. This is something you might want to consider before you order any for your next project.
Difference 7: Weight
The final difference I want to mention is the weight difference. Plastic lumber is exceptionally lightweight when compared to normal wood, which could change things for people.
I do see why using a lighter material would be beneficial.
The fact it remains as strong as wood even though it weighs a fraction is kind of amazing.
But I do know that some people prefer the solidity of real wood. Wood gives you a sense of security and stability when used in projects. It could be that we have become so comfortable with wood that we find it difficult to imagine using any other material.
Wooden makes it seem more authentic and real. The added weight of the materials used manages to add to that feeling. Consider spending a moment thinking about how you feel when you consider decking made of wood or decking made of plastic. Chances are one of your first thoughts will be along the line of.well, the wood is sturdier!
However, I recognize that lighter materials are possible. The difference will be significant.
Decide Which Is Best?
I know that when you look at the differences, you may feel as if plastic lumber is streets ahead of wood, and in certain ways, it is. Ultimately, the thing you need to think about is how you want your project to look.
I say that because you just cannot get away from how it looks. Visual perception is very different. It all depends on how you view it.
But I do admit that the reduction in general upkeep and maintenance of the plastic lumber option is attractive to some. Also, the fact you can cut this plastic lumber in the same way as you would do with normal wood is another real bonus.
I believe that the most important factor in determining a person’s success is their appearance and ability to maintain it.
For me, wood is my favorite material. Im that traditional kind of guy who loves the look and feel of it. However, Im not saying plastic lumber does not have a place. It appeals to me. The main differences between these two options tend towards plastic lumber being the superior product.
Overall Conclusion
So thats not only an introduction to plastic lumber but also the main differences that exist between plastic lumber and wood. There are many differences that you need to consider, which may change the way you view the material and where you could use it.
I believe that you must weigh which option you choose based on several criteria. Also, consider the differences.
Trust is also an issue. People may not know how to use plastic lumber, but feel more comfortable using real wood. It is a difficult concept to grasp. You can also cut and drill plastic lumber the same as regular wood.
