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AZEK Decking: Transforming the Industry with Sustainable Solutions

AZEK Decking: Transforming the Industry with Sustainable Solutions

Plastic scrap in landfills used in composite decking
145 million tons. That’s the amount of construction and demolition (C&D) waste that ended up in U.S. landfills in 2018, according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s annual report. The EPA cites C&D materials as a “significant waste stream.” Yes, 145 million tons is indisputably significant. But The AZEK Company is taking strides to help turn the tide on C&D waste. The industry-leading deck supplies manufacturer has developed innovative recycling methods that are truly making an impact. Here’s the scoop.

What is AZEK?

The AZEK Company is a manufacturer of low-maintenance PVC and composite deck boards and other building products for residential and commercial applications. The company is dedicated to sustainability and primarily manufactures products from recycled items. AZEK’s green processes are revolutionizing the industry. 

Construction wood waste used in composite decking

AZEK Decking: 63% Recycled Content

AZEK’s portfolio of residential products includes TimberTech decking, AZEK Trim, and additional deck supplies. Committed to delivering high-performance, low-maintenance products, AZEK manufacturers these products from up to 80% recycled material. Since 2018, the company’s sustainable efforts have increased the recycled content of their TimberTech AZEK decking from 30% to 63%. Nearly half of this content is sourced from external scrap materials. 

Committed to a Cleaner Future

Using recycled wood, scrap, and plastic waste to create its deck supplies and other products, AZEK is taking a forward-looking approach to manufacturing. In fiscal year 2020, AZEK’s recycling programs diverted 400 million pounds of scrap and waste from landfills. The company has announced a goal to divert one billion pounds of waste per year by 2026.
Because AZEK decking consists of PVC deck board, the manufacturing process also prevents deforestation. The polymer and composite AZEK and TimberTech deck boards deliver a beautiful wood-look aesthetic without the need for lumber.
AZEK is further exploring green initiatives for facility operations. At one of their newest facilities, located in Boise, ID, AZEK is looking to solar and wind energies and high-efficiency water and lighting systems to provide sustainable solutions for their manufacturing site. Other initiatives include smart site-management and LEED certification.

The Secret to Sustainability 

In the past, recycling efforts have been stymied by a lack of ability to collect and reuse the plastic in many common products. Basic building materials, such as flooring, windows, and decking were going to waste. However, AZEK’s commitment to research and sustainability broke through this barrier. 
AZEK is able to source traditional PVC components such as siding and windows for their recycling efforts. But they also source other content that is more difficult to recycle, such as credit cards, vinyl composite tile, and cooling towers. AZEK has partnered with 150 recyclers and grinders to create a steady supply chain of materials for their manufacturing and to improve the rate of recycling in the industry. 
The final result? AZEK decking is leading the industry with innovative solutions. Its products include the most natural-looking, highest-performing, sustainable decking on the market.

Find Your Sustainable Solution

Looking for green solutions for your next project? Look to AZEK decking and deck supplies, and discover durability, beauty, and sustainability.