FAQs

What is recycled plastic lumber (RPL)?

Conversion Products uses recycled plastic lumber to manufacture Adirondack-style chairs, benches, and tables. The recycled plastic lumber manufacturing technology is over 20 years old. Lumber dimensions are formed through either molding or an extrusion process and many different plastics are used across the country in the production of recycled plastic lumber. We only use lumber made from recycled HDPE #2 (ground milk jugs). This type of lumber is a little more expensive than other plastics, but has a greater consistency, purity and color fastness. It also has an added UV inhibitor for fade-resistance.

How is RPL different from wood?

Products made from recycled plastic lumber (RPL) will not rot, splinter or crack and are impervious to water, chemicals, salt or insects. Stains and graffiti wash off with commercial cleansers and/or with a pressure wash.

Plastic lumber has little resemblance to vinyl and other plastic products. It is 50-75% heavier than wood and has a slight grain as a result of the extrusion process. In fact, most people cannot distinguish one of our white Adirondack chairs from a white-painted wooden cousin until they sit down and give ours a closer look!

One noticeable difference between RPL and wood is that wood's tensile strength is higher than that of RPL. That means that wood at longer lengths, for example in a 6-foot bench, can hold greater weight on a seat with less support beneath it. The same bench length made with recycled plastic lumber needs more leg supports because the tensile strength is not as high as that of wood.

How is the RPL made?

Our supplier pulverizes milk jugs made with HDPE #2 plastic that have been brought to recycling centers. They add color to the mixture as well as a UV inhibitor. The resulting mix is pushed through extruders at varying standard lumber widths (e.g., 2x4, 2x6 etc.), cooled and then cut to appropriate lengths (6 foot or 12 foot).

Where is the furniture made?

Conversion Products outdoor furniture and amenities are made in Biddeford, Maine in one of the old mill buildings on Lincoln Street. They are cut and assembled using traditional woodworking tools and techniques.

Does the furniture come assembled?

CPI furniture arrives broken down with detailed assembly instructions. Our furniture is designed to be easily assembled, in most cases by screwing the furniture together using carriage bolts that are provided.

How do I care for furniture made with RPL?

CPI furniture can be cleaned with a common household cleaner, as needed. If there is a particularly tough stain, pressure washing works well. Plastic lumber is extremely durable, but it can scratch or mar over time. To repair scratches, the lumber can be sanded, using care.

Does the furniture come with a warranty?

Yes! CPI residential products have a ten-year structural warranty. Commercial products have an eight-year structural warranty. Under regular use, parts are covered for eight or ten years from the original date of purchase.

If I have further questions?

Please call our toll-free number, 888-236-2212, with any questions or comments. We can also be reached by email at conpro@conversionproducts.com.