Why Recycled Plastic Fencing Performs Exceptionally Well in High Outdoor Temperatures
Recycled plastic fencing has become a popular alternative to traditional timber and metal fencing thanks to its strength, longevity, and environmental benefits. One of its standout advantages is its excellent performance in high outdoor temperatures, making it a reliable solution for year-round use.
Built to Withstand Heat and Sunlight
Unlike traditional timber fencing, recycled plastic fencing is highly resistant to the effects of prolonged sun exposure. High-quality recycled plastic products are manufactured with UV-stabilised materials, helping them retain their appearance and structural integrity even in direct sunlight.
Timber can dry out, crack, warp, or splinter during periods of intense heat. Recycled plastic fencing, however, remains stable and requires minimal maintenance, making it particularly suitable for exposed outdoor environments.
In addition to being UV-resistant, recycled plastic fencing will not rot, suffer insect damage, or absorb moisture, ensuring a long service life regardless of changing weather conditions.
Understanding Thermal Expansion
One characteristic of recycled plastic fencing that differs from traditional materials is thermal expansion. As temperatures increase, recycled plastic naturally expands and contracts more than timber.
Typically, recycled plastic expands by approximately 0.11mm per metre for every 1°C increase in temperature. While this movement is completely normal and does not affect the overall durability of the fencing, installations must be designed to accommodate it.
When installed correctly, recycled plastic fencing continues to provide excellent performance in both hot summers and cold winters.
Installation Matters
To ensure the best long-term performance in high temperatures, a few simple installation practices should be followed.
Leave Expansion Gaps
Small gaps should be left between adjoining fencing components during installation. These spaces allow the material to expand naturally during hot weather, helping to prevent buckling or unwanted pressure on posts and fixings.
Pre-Drill Pilot Holes
When fixing recycled plastic components, pilot holes should always be drilled before inserting screws. This helps prevent excessive stress on the material and allows for natural movement as temperatures fluctuate.
Avoid Over-Tightening Fixings
Screws and bolts should be secured firmly but not excessively tightened. Allowing a small amount of movement helps the fencing respond naturally to temperature changes without placing unnecessary strain on the structure.
Allow Clearance in Mortised Systems
For mortised post and rail fencing systems, rails should be cut with sufficient clearance where they slot into posts. This ensures thermal expansion does not force the posts apart during periods of high heat.
Ideal Applications for Hot Outdoor Environments
Recycled plastic fencing is well-suited to a wide range of outdoor applications where exposure to sunlight and heat is unavoidable.
Recycled Plastic Knee Rail
Commonly found in parks, car parks, public spaces, and recreational areas, recycled plastic knee rail fencing provides an effective low-level boundary while maintaining visibility. Available in heights of 0.9m and 1.2m, it offers excellent durability without the maintenance requirements associated with timber.
Recycled Plastic Post and Rail Fencing
A popular choice for farms, equestrian facilities, and rural properties, post and rail fencing combines a traditional appearance with the long-lasting performance of recycled plastic. It remains strong and attractive despite constant exposure to the elements.
Mortised Post and Rail Fencing
For applications requiring additional strength, mortised post and rail fencing creates a secure connection between rails and posts. When installed with appropriate expansion allowances, it performs exceptionally well in hot weather conditions.
Recycled Plastic Picket Pale Fencing
Perfect for gardens, pathways, and public spaces, picket pale fencing provides a classic appearance without the ongoing maintenance typically associated with wooden alternatives.
Recycled Plastic Closed Board Fencing
Where privacy and security are priorities, closed board fencing delivers a solid barrier that stands up to heat, rain, and wind without warping, rotting, or deteriorating over time.
Sustainability Meets Performance
The benefits of recycled plastic fencing extend beyond durability. Every fencing component begins its journey at a specialist recycling and remanufacturing facility, where plastic waste is transformed into robust Plaswood profiles.
The manufacturing process includes shredding, washing, drying, blending, extrusion, cooling, and rigorous quality testing. The result is a high-performance fencing material that diverts waste from landfill while providing a sustainable alternative to traditional fencing products.
Even the production process is designed with sustainability in mind, with washing water being treated and reused, significantly reducing water consumption compared to the manufacture of virgin plastic products.
Get Your Recycled Plastic Fencing Today
If you aren’t sure which type of recycled plastic fencing is right for you, please get in touch with the First Fence experts. We are available by:
- Phone on 01283 512 111
- Email at sales@firstfence.co.uk
- Live chat on our website
