VERSATEX Trimboard News
April 15, 2009 - VERSATEX maintains tight ship environmentally, even in a tough economic environment.
PVC trimboard manufacturer reclaims, reuses and recycles in every corner of its Pittsburgh, PA operation to further establish ‘green’ nature of their PVC products and plant.
Though not everyone agrees on exactly what makes a manufactured product ‘green’, the folks at VERSATEX have carefully crafted every one of their manufacturing processes to take a strong stance at protecting the environment.
Recycling
Over 98% of all processed waste at VERSATEX is recycled. They recycle all of their PVC scrap (edge trim, dust, purge, die tear-offs, floor sweeps, etc.)--either back through the process, or into secondary products. As a result, each year they recycle roughly 2 million pounds of PVC scrap and over 500,000 gallons of process water.
In addition, all of their office paper, cardboard, waste oils, water, wood scrap and 4 x 4 wood skids are recycled.
VERSATEX trim in the field is recyclable, either back to the manufacturer or through brokers.
Energy Savings
The 60,000 SF plant uses no gas or electric for heating. All heat is generated during the extrusion process and is used to heat the entire manufacturing plant. They estimate natural gas savings of approximately 25,000 CCF on an annual basis.
VERSATEX cellular PVC is lighter to transport than most other building products, reducing the amount of fuel and other resources used for such transportation.
VERSATEX cellular PVC has a 60% greater R-value than wood, making it is more energy efficient than wood.
Durability and the Environment
VERSATEX cellular PVC qualifies as a “Durable” product, which conserves materials and eliminates pollution associated with the manufacturing of shorter life alternative products. It is also insect resistant, mold and mildew resistant and fire resistant.
VERSATEX requires less maintenance than many other exterior trim products. It does not require the use of paint, stain or harsh cleaners in order to maintain the physical performance characteristics of the product.
Since VERSATEX Cellular PVC is a replacement for wood trim, it helps reduce deforestation. VERSATEX has a long life cycle allowing the manufacturer to warrant the product for 30 years, transferrable to the second homeowner.
Lastly, all literature that VERSATEX has printed is specified on FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified recycled paper, helping contribute to conservation, responsible management, and community- level benefits for people near the forests that provide the paper. It is manufactured from bleach-free sheet pulp, 100% recyclable and under ECF conditions.
VERSATEX is manufactured by Wolfpac Technologies in Pittsburgh, Pa. The company operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, which produces cellular PVC extrusion products, such as VERSATEX trimboards, sheet, mouldings and prefabricated corners.