Demand for wood plastic composite and plastic lumber in the US is projected to increase by over 13% annually up to 2015, when it will reach USD 5.4 bn, representing 1.18m t of plastic, according to a recently published report, “Wood-plastic composite & plastic lumber”, from market researcher Freedonia (Cleveland, Ohio / USA; www.freedoniagroup.com). Gains will be driven by an increase in construction expenditure from a depressed 2010 base and increasing consumer demand for building products made from composite and plastic lumber, replacing more traditional materials, such as natural wood.

The most rapid demand gains in the period will be for decking, which was the leading application for composite and plastic lumber in 2010, with other applications, moulding and trim, as well as windows and doors expected to record rapid demand gains. The researcher said that home owners are expected to install windows and doors made from cellular PVC and composite lumber because of their resistance to rotting and resemblance to natural wood.

Demand for composite and plastic lumber in landscape and outdoor products, fencing and other applications will be promoted by increasing consumer recognition of the performance properties of materials'. Demand for wood plastic composite lumber will record more rapid gains than that for plastic lumber up to 2015, increasing by over 16% annually to USD 2.5 bn. Gains will be driven by ongoing consumer interest in composite lumber as a substitute for natural wood products in applications such as decking and fencing. Moreover, because wood plastic composite lumber incorporates recycled materials, it is seen as an environmentally friendly building material, Freedonia said.

Plastic lumber demand is forecast to rise by almost 11% annually to USD 2.8 bn in 2015, spurred by rising consumer interest in the material because of its low maintenance properties. The researcher added that efforts of manufacturers to create plastic lumber with more realistic wood grain textures and surfaces will also support demand.