Why Should I Use HDPE Plastic Materials?
When choosing materials for your next project, you certainly have plenty of options. Since the 1950s, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) has soared in popularity in the US, although it first started in the UK about two decades earlier. Now it’s one of the most widely used types of plastic available.
But what exactly is it and why should you consider using HDPE in your next project? Read below to find out.
What Is HDPE?
HDPE is made by stringing together ethylene molecules, hence the name polyethylene. The ethylene molecules come primarily from US natural gas resources, and the resulting plastic is as versatile as it is durable, being used in a variety of applications.
One reason contractors, builders, and facility supervisors prefer HDPE over other materials is because it’s lightweight while also managing to be extremely strong. It’s also resistant to impact and damage. Bump into a locker made from HDPE and it won’t dent. Nor will it rot or grow mold as wood or other materials might, making HDPE plastics perfect for use where moisture is common, such as a commercial bathroom.
HDPE Is Environmentally Conscious
HDPE offers a relatively low environmental impact and substantial improvements to the indoor air quality both initially and in the long run.
In addition, HDPE materials from Scranton Products are GREENGUARD Gold Certified. This exclusive certification features extremely strict criteria and takes into account certain safety factors for sensitive individuals, making Scranton Products’ HDPE brands perfectly suitable for use in healthcare facilities and schools.
Scranton Products brands are made from recycled materials and are 100% recyclable themselves. Plus the plastic is solid colored throughout. That means no volatile organic compound emissions inside your facility, no chipping, and no need to repaint.
Lower Long-Term Costs
One of the biggest problems facing building officials is the cost to maintain their facilities. In this respect, HDPE holds a significant advantage over other common building materials, such as metal.
Take a locker, for example. Metal lockers may have a lower initial cost than lockers made from HDPE, but the cost of maintaining metal can surpass that of HDPE over time. When you factor in the cost of painting, cleaning, and other maintenance, HDPE lockers are less expensive than their metal counterparts.
That’s because HDPE is resistant to dents, germs, rust, corrosion, and even graffiti. Therefore, it requires minimal care to stay in good working condition. Not only that, but in the case of lockers, HDPE is significantly more effective at noise reduction than traditional metal lockers. In fact, HDPE lockers have been proven to be three times quieter than metal, making them perfect for use in schools and other shared areas.
If you’d like to learn more about HDPE or any of the brands offered by Scranton Products, contact us today.
