May 3 2008
Beautiful outdoor decking is a popular, highly desirable addition to millions of American homes. So popular, in fact, that every year around this time a small army of contractors and do-it-yourselfers can be spotted adding, expanding or replacing a deck in preparation for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. And as the enthusiasm for outdoor decking grows from year to year, there is something different underfoot: it's cellular PVC, an innovative foamed polyvinyl chloride product for decking and trim boards that's environmentally advanced, easy to work with, and beautiful to behold!
Thanks to new developments in technology, cellular PVC materials are becoming increasingly popular for decking and trim work. Rohm and Haas (NYSE:ROH), known for innovative acrylic technology solutions, develops and supplies processing aids that enable companies to produce these and other cellular PVC construction materials. These innovative plastics mimic wood, last for many years, protect resources, and limit carbon emissions by reducing the need to transport heavier materials. Perfect for harsh climates like coastal areas, cellular PVC materials are extraordinarily durable: they resist water, weather, insects, sun and mold, and even grease splatter from your BBQ.
Cellular PVC materials represent a multi-faceted environmental win that prompted discerning builders and homeowners to purchase approximately $45 million worth of cellular PVC decking in 2006, a trend that is helping “green” decking grow 20 percent annually.
Reducing Heavy Metals in PVC Pipe
In addition, Rohm and Haas develops and supplies PVC stabilizers that replace traditional additives containing lead and zinc. This enables PVC manufacturers to make PVC pipe that doesn’t contain these dangerous heavy metals. These new additives also support recycling – which is difficult with PVC pipes containing lead and zinc – thereby helping to reduce the discarded plastics that make up about a tenth of our solid waste. These products are not only good for the planet, they’re good for business, too. In Europe, they help PVC makers meet voluntary lead reduction standards in advance of pending government regulations.
Through these and many other measures, Rohm and Haas is safeguarding our environment … and making the impossible possible.