TruNorth Decks Advances Sustainable Composite Manufacturing
The Challenge
TruNorth Decks manufactures high-performance composite decking and aims to reduce environmental impact. Their main challenge was sourcing consistent, high-quality recycled plastic suitable for decking. Variability in recycled materials can affect colour, durability, and structural performance—key factors for replacing traditional wood decking.
The Solution
EPL Plastics supplied custom-processed recycled polyethylene (rPE) compounds engineered for composite decking. By controlling melt flow, contamination, and material consistency, TruNorth Decks was able to increase recycled content without compromising performance.
These materials support wood-free composite decking that outperforms traditional lumber while reducing maintenance. Unlike wood, TruNorth decking maintains its appearance with simple cleaning.
Related Services: Plastic Blending & Compounding, Plastic Densifying, Recycled Material Sourcing
The Cost Advantage
Recycled polyethylene typically costs less than virgin resin, and that saving flows straight through to the finished product. By building their decking on EPL Plastics' rPE compounds instead of virgin material, TruNorth Decks lowered their input costs without sacrificing performance.
That lower material cost gives TruNorth Decks real pricing power. They can offer their composite decking at a more competitive price point than many competing brands while protecting their margins, turning a sustainability decision into a direct commercial advantage:
- Lower material costs by replacing virgin resin with recycled polyethylene
- More stable input pricing, insulated from volatile virgin resin markets
- Competitive retail pricing that undercuts comparable composite decking brands
The Results
- Reduced reliance on virgin plastics
- Diverted plastic waste from landfills
- Improved material consistency and production efficiency
- Longer-lasting composite decking products
- Stronger sustainability story for eco-conscious customers
TruNorth Decking resists moisture, mold, mildew, insects, and fading—common issues with wood decks.
Why TruNorth Composite Decking
Compared to wood, TruNorth composite decking provides:
- Lower lifetime cost with minimal maintenance
- Longer service life, backed by warranties
- No toxic treatments, unlike pressure-treated lumber
- Reduced environmental impact, with up to 95% recycled content
- Slip-resistant, barefoot-friendly surfaces
Eliminating wood fibers avoids deforestation while delivering consistent performance outdoors.
Why EPL Plastics
EPL Plastics’ expertise in recycled polymer processing and quality control enabled TruNorth Decks to scale sustainable manufacturing. By transforming recovered plastic into reliable, application-ready materials, EPL Plastics supports a circular economy.
Related Services: Plastic Aspiration, Plastic Grinding & Granulating, Plastic Pelletizing, Plastic Storage & Siloage, Toll Plastic Processing, Plastic Waste Consulting