Plastic lumber vs. Wood?

[cuyeda]

Has anyone considered using plastic lumber for the road side flooring?
The spec sheet looks like it would be a good alternative material to use. It is more costly, and local availability would be a concern. Just thinking out of the box here. I am sure there are other sources for this product, but here is an info page:

Also see the specifications comparison link.
http://epsplasticlumber.com/plasticplywoodsheets.shtml

[cguardsman]

it can be used on the surface for decking but it is usually non load bearing for supports.

[madjack]

Cliff, the stuff I have seen/used had a bad tendency to warp/sag, plus, as a plastic it has a high thermal co-efficient(expansion/contraction), thus is tough to find a adhesive/sealer that works adequately
madjack

[brian_bp]

A better option might be a blend of plastic and wood fiber, as is often used for walkways and decks were rot is a serious concern. It's still heavy compared to wood, and sag under sustained load is a problem.

Most of this "plastic wood" stuff seems to go into park benches, and I think that's a good place for it.

[mikeschn]

Yea, ditto on the heavy...

Mike...

[Arne]

double ditto on weight.. I wouldn't consider it... my opinion, for what it is worth.

[cuyeda]

Thanks for the feedback. I didn't realize that it would be heavier. I'lll stick to a good sealer. On my first trailer renovation, I tried roofing emulsion, and was a bit thin. Then I used a thicker roofing tar that had to be spread on with a spatula, and was very messy.

I was just trying to get out of doing that chore again on the next project. Appreciate the input.

[Arne]

If you are talking about the bottom side of the floor, I think (myself included) we get a bit anal about it, thinking it gets a lot of road spray... my experience is it does not..... I would almost be tempted to use a good sealer and paint next time...

As far as applying roof coating, it goes on easily (tough on the wrist, though) with a heavy bristle brush sold for that application... took me about 45 minutes to do mine... then the brush went into the trash....

I think I waited about 3 days before flipping the tar side onto the frame..