The Benefits of Manticore Plastic Lumber

This eco-friendly option is not only an effective way to reduce waste but also offers numerous benefits for substructures like cladding battens and decking joists. In this blog post, we’ll explore the many advantages of using plastic lumber for these key structural components, focusing on both cladding and decking applications.

Let’s kick things off with the obvious: plastic lumber is an environmentally friendly option that contributes to reducing the huge amount of plastic waste. Made from 100% recycled plastic, this material takes what would have been landfill-bound waste and turns it into something useful and durable. And since it’s sourced in the UK, the carbon footprint is lower too, with less transportation involved.

So, by choosing plastic lumber for your cladding or decking projects, you're not only getting a solid building material but also doing your part for the environment. It’s a win-win!

Plastic lumber offers exceptional durability, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications like decking and cladding. Unlike traditional wood, which is prone to rot, decay, and insect damage, plastic lumber is resistant to these issues. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and UV exposure, without deteriorating.

When it comes to substructures like decking joists and cladding battens, you want something that can take a beating and still come out strong. Plastic lumber does just that—lasting for years without any signs of wear or tear, which means fewer replacements and lower costs over time.

Unlike timber, which needs to be treated to prevent damage, plastic lumber is virtually maintenance-free. There’s no need for chemical treatments to protect against insects or moisture.

For homeowners and builders, this means less time spent on upkeep and more time enjoying the finished product. Removing the need for extra protection, such as decking tape on your joists. It’s a worry-free solution that maintains its appearance and strength over time without the constant need for repair or replacement.

While the initial cost of plastic lumber may be higher than traditional wood, it quickly becomes a cost-effective option due to its long lifespan and low maintenance needs. There are no ongoing expenses for treatments, repairs, or replacements, making it a smart investment for both residential and commercial projects.

Furthermore, the durability of plastic lumber means that the risk of structural failure or costly repairs is significantly reduced, especially in outdoor environments where wooden substructures may rot or weaken over time.

Natural wood can have variations in grain, knots, and quality. Plastic lumber is produced to be consistent in strength and appearance. This uniformity allows for a more predictable and reliable material when constructing substructures like decking joists and cladding battens.

Plastic lumber has excellent structural integrity, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from large-scale commercial builds to home projects. Builders can trust that the material will perform as expected without variability.

In environments where moisture is prevalent, like under decks or behind cladding, traditional wood can absorb water, leading to swelling, warping, and the growth of mould and mildew. Plastic lumber, however, is impervious to water, which makes it the ideal solution for outdoor projects.

By using plastic lumber for decking joists and cladding battens, you can avoid common issues like wood rot, mould growth, and structural weakening. This resistance also ensures the longevity of the material in humid or rainy climates, further enhancing its appeal.

When used for cladding battens, plastic lumber provides several distinct advantages. The battens act as a supporting framework for external cladding, and plastic lumber ensures a sturdy, rot-resistant foundation for this application. Traditional wooden battens can rot over time, particularly in damp environments, which can lead to the cladding coming loose or requiring frequent maintenance.

With plastic lumber battens, the structure behind the cladding remains secure and durable for decades, unaffected by moisture or insect damage. Furthermore, its resistance to mould and mildew makes it an ideal choice for buildings in wetter climates. The use of plastic lumber for cladding battens provides long-term peace of mind and reduces the need for ongoing upkeep, making it a sustainable and economical choice for property owners and builders alike.

Plastic lumber is equally well-suited for use in decking joist substructures. Decking joists support the entire deck structure, and using plastic lumber ensures that these crucial components remain strong and resilient even when exposed to the elements.

Traditional wooden joists can warp, rot, or degrade over time. Plastic lumber joists, however, are impervious to moisture and resistant to both insects and UV rays. This makes them a superior choice for any decking project, particularly in areas with frequent rainfall or a high humidity.

Moreover, when paired with adjustable decking pedestals (more on this in the next section), plastic lumber joists create a robust and easily installed substructure for decking projects. The combination of pedestals and plastic lumber makes it easier to ensure the deck is level and properly supported.

An essential component that enhances the functionality and ease of plastic lumber installation is the use of adjustable decking pedestals (our adjustable pedestals are also made from 100% recycled plastic!). These pedestals support and elevate the decking joists off the ground, allowing for precise height adjustments and ensuring a perfectly level deck, even on uneven terrain. When combined with plastic lumber, they create a reliable, sustainable substructure for decking projects.

By choosing plastic lumber joists with adjustable decking pedestals, you are creating a durable, eco-friendly, and long-lasting substructure for your deck that is both easy to install and maintain.

Switching to 100% recycled plastic lumber for cladding battens and decking joists is a smart decision that benefits both your project and the environment. With its durability, low maintenance, and resistance to moisture and pests, it’s a superior alternative to traditional wood. On top of that, it plays a significant role in promoting sustainability by reducing plastic waste and conserving natural resources.

Whether you’re working on a home renovation or a commercial build, choosing plastic lumber for your substructure needs ensures a long-lasting, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution that aligns with modern building practices.