Introduction
In the construction industry, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a fundamental requirement. As builders and developers strive to reduce their environmental impact, choosing construction materials is crucial in achieving sustainability goals. Plastic shuttering sheets and PVC boards are two popular options for formwork and shuttering as alternatives to plywood shuttering boards. This article will explore the sustainable showdown between these two materials, examining their environmental impact, durability, cost-effectiveness, and overall suitability for construction projects.
Environmental Impact
In general, plastic shuttering boards use a mix of different plastic materials. At WoWMaterials, we manufacture plastic shuttering sheets from recovered plastic materials sourced from post-consumer waste streams. Our source material mainly consists of multi-layered plastics (MLP), considered non-recyclable. MLPs include chocolate, candy, biscuit wrappers, and chip packets. By repurposing plastic waste into valuable building materials, these sheets help reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources.
In contrast, PVC boards are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic derived from non-renewable fossil fuels. Producing PVC involves releasing toxic chemicals and greenhouse gases, contributing to environmental pollution and climate change. Regarding environmental impact, recycled plastic shuttering sheets have a clear advantage over PVC boards.
Durability and Performance
Regarding durability and performance, recycled plastic shuttering sheets and PVC boards offer reliable solutions for construction projects. WoWShuttering sheets are engineered to withstand the rigours of construction, offering excellent resistance to water, chemicals, termites, and weathering. They provide reliable support and stability during concrete formwork and wall construction, ensuring long-lasting performance in diverse applications. Similarly, PVC boards are known for their durability and strength, making them suitable for various construction tasks. However, it’s essential to consider each material’s long-term performance and environmental implications. While PVC boards may offer immediate durability, their ecological footprint and potential health hazards raise concerns about their sustainability in the long run. They also tend to break or crack in drops from a height or when heavy material falls on them, making them delicate to handle.
Cost-Effectiveness
Regarding cost-effectiveness, recycled plastic shuttering sheets and PVC boards have different cost structures. Due to their sustainable manufacturing process and eco-friendly materials, recycled plastic shuttering sheets may have a slightly higher upfront cost than PVC boards. However, the long-term benefits of recycled plastic shuttering sheets, such as high repetition rate, reduced maintenance expenses and environmental impact, can result in overall cost savings over the lifespan of a construction project.
Conversely, PVC boards may have lower initial costs but incur higher maintenance and replacement expenses over time. Therefore, builders and developers need to consider the total cost of ownership when choosing between these materials.
Suitability for Construction Projects
Several factors come into play when evaluating the suitability of recycled plastic shuttering sheets and PVC boards for construction projects. Recycled plastic shuttering sheets offer versatility, ease of installation, and compatibility with various construction applications. They can be easily cut, drilled, and modified on-site, allowing for precise adjustments and seamless integration into construction workflows. Contractors can use WoWMaterial’s plastic shuttering sheets for vertical, horizontal, circular, and monolithic shuttering.
Additionally, recycled plastic shuttering sheets are easy to transport and handle with minimal maintenance and multiple recyclability, reducing labour costs and construction time. On the other hand, PVC boards may offer similar benefits in terms of versatility and ease of installation. However, their environmental impact and potential health risks raise concerns about their long-term suitability for sustainable construction projects.
Conclusion
In the sustainable showdown between recycled plastic shuttering sheets and PVC boards, the former emerges as the clear winner regarding environmental impact, durability, and long-term cost-effectiveness. WoWShuttering plastic shuttering sheets offer a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials, helping reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources, and mitigate climate change. With their excellent performance, versatility, and cost-effectiveness, recycled plastic shuttering sheets are ideal for builders and developers committed to use sustainable construction materials & practices. Construction projects can achieve sustainability goals by choosing recycled plastic shuttering sheets over PVC ply boards while delivering high-quality, durable structures for future generations.