Abstract
This research developed a profile of used chromated copper arsenate (CCA) lumber removed from the demolition of residential decking. This was achieved by gathering and compiling information regarding the construction, demolition, deck remodeling, deck replacement factors, and factors affecting the recovery of spent CCA lumber. In addition, qualitative responses regarding programs and incentives to facilitate recovery, and the potential products that could be manufactured from spent CCA lumber were addressed. The study included a mail questionnaire that was sent to over 2,800 contractors in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. A mail questionnaire was used to collect both demographic data and assess the factors affecting the recovery of treated lumber. Research findings indicate the average age of decks at removal was nearly 13 years, and that the average size of decks is increasing, from 198 to 272 sq.ft. Extrapolated results indicate that 67.5 million board feet of treated lumber was removed from the sample states and 1 billion board feet of decking lumber was removed in 1999 from the demolition of decks. The majority of participants built new decks. When decks were repaired, the primary components replaced were deck boards and railings. The primary reason for deck replacement was decayed wood, and the majority of respondents directed spent CCA lumber to municipal solid waste landfills. The two salient reasons for not recovering spent CCA lumber were a lack of recovery facilities and programs, respectively.
Citation
Alderman, Delton, Jr.; Smith, Robert; Araman, Philip A. 2003. A profile of CCA-treated lumber removed from service in the southeastern United States decking market. Forest Products Journal. 53(1): 38-45