Plastic Products FAQ

Plastic Products FAQs: Fencing, Sheets, Boards, Decking & Furniture

Find answers to common questions about LL Plastic’s recycled plastic products, from choosing plastic fence posts and working with plastic sheets to maintaining decking and arranging delivery. Need help with a particular project? Contact our team for product advice.

1. Do recycled plastic products fade in sunlight?

Some colour change can occur as recycled plastic weathers outdoors, particularly during its initial exposure to sunlight. Our UV-stabilised products are designed to limit the effects of sun exposure, although colour retention is not covered by the material warranty. If appearance is important for your project, ask us about a sample before ordering.

2. Do plastic fence posts become brittle over time?

Our solid recycled plastic fence posts are designed for long-term outdoor use. UV stabilisation helps protect the material against deterioration from sunlight, while the plastic resists moisture-related rot. Choose the correct post size and follow the installation guidance to give your fence the support it needs.

3. Can I cut and drill plastic sheets, boards and fence posts?

Yes. You can cut and drill our plastic sheets, boards and posts using suitable woodworking tools. Use sharp blades and drill bits, pre-drill fixing holes and avoid overheating the material during cutting. Follow the guidance for your chosen product, including any allowances for expansion and contraction.

4. How does sunlight affect recycled plastic fencing and furniture?

Sunlight can affect plastics over time, so our outdoor recycled plastic products use UV stabilisation to help reduce weathering. Performance depends on the material formulation, exposure and application. For fencing or furniture in an exposed location, ask us about the specification of the product you are considering.

5. How long do plastic fence posts last?

Plastic fence posts are designed to provide a long service life without the rot associated with timber posts in damp ground. Their usable lifespan depends on the installation, loads and conditions of use. Eligible LL Plastic products have a 25-year material warranty, subject to its terms; this is separate from a prediction of service life. Read our warranty information for details.

6. How much does delivery cost?

Delivery costs depend on your postcode and the size, weight and quantity of your order. Smaller products may travel by parcel courier, while larger or heavier orders may require pallet delivery. Check the delivery charge when ordering or contact us for a quotation. See our delivery policy for access requirements and further information.

7. Can plastic decking boards get scratched?

Yes. Plastic decking is hard-wearing, but dragging furniture, equipment or other heavy objects across it can leave marks. Lift items where possible and keep the surface clear of grit. If damage occurs, contact us for product-specific advice before attempting a repair. The appropriate method may differ between recycled plastic decking and composite decking.

8. Can you help me choose materials for my project?

Yes. Contact us with your project dimensions, intended use and any drawings or photographs. We can discuss suitable products, such as plastic sheets, fence posts or plastic boards and profiles. If you need more detailed design support, we can discuss what help is available for your project.

9. What are the benefits of plastic fencing and decking compared with timber?

Recycled plastic offers a moisture-resistant, low-maintenance alternative to timber for many outdoor projects. It does not need routine staining or preservative treatment, and it avoids the moisture-related rot that can affect wooden fencing and decking. Plastic and timber have different support and fixing requirements, so always choose a product suited to the intended application.

10. Do your recycled plastic products have a warranty?

Eligible LL Plastic products have a 25-year warranty against material defects, subject to proper installation and use. The warranty has exclusions, including colour changes, normal wear and certain product categories. If you suspect a defect, contact us promptly with your order details, photographs and a description of the problem. See the full warranty terms to check coverage.

11. Are recycled plastic products fireproof?

No. Recycled plastic products should not be treated as fireproof. Keep them away from naked flames and significant heat sources. Where a project requires a particular fire classification, ask us for the relevant product information before specifying the material.

12. Can recycled plastic boards and furniture be recycled after use?

Our recycled plastic boards and plastic wood products are recyclable, but acceptance depends on the facilities available in your area. Check with the recycling operator before taking products to a centre, particularly if they are large or contain metal fixings. Reusing sound components or replacing individual parts may also help extend the product’s working life.

13. Is plastic decking slippery when wet?

Plastic decking can become slippery when wet, especially if algae, leaves or dirt build up on the surface. Regular cleaning and suitable drainage help maintain a usable walking surface. Check the specification and any available slip-resistance information for your chosen decking, particularly for public spaces or areas with frequent moisture exposure.

14. Are plastic sheets, boards and furniture suitable for wet or coastal locations?

Our recycled plastic materials resist moisture and do not rot like timber, making them useful for damp gardens, farms and exposed outdoor settings. For coastal projects, consider the complete installation: fixings and other components must also suit the environment. Contact us for advice on the right plastic product and fixing specification for your location.

15. Can I collect my order from your Penicuik warehouse?

Yes, collection is available by arrangement, subject to stock availability. Our Scottish warehouse is at Pomathorn Mill, Penicuik, EH26 8PJ. Contact us before travelling so we can confirm your order is ready and discuss suitable transport for larger items. You can find our contact details and opening hours on our Scotland contact page.

16. Can I request a free recycled plastic sample?

Yes. Contact us with the product and colour you are interested in, and we can discuss arranging a free sample. Samples can help you assess the material’s colour, texture and finish before choosing plastic boards, sheets or fencing for your project. Availability depends on the product requested.

17. What are the environmental benefits of recycled plastic products?

Recycled plastic products put recovered plastic to practical use in durable materials for outdoor projects. Choosing a suitable, long-lasting product can also reduce repeated replacement and the need for timber preservatives. Environmental performance depends on factors including manufacture, transport, service life and disposal, so we focus on specific material benefits rather than claiming every product has the same environmental impact.

18. Are recycled plastic fences and decking durable enough for outdoor use?

Yes, our outdoor recycled plastic ranges are designed for demanding conditions and resist moisture-related rot and insect damage. Durability also depends on choosing the correct dimensions, supports and fixings. For gardens, farms and commercial settings, tell us how the product will be used so we can help you select a suitable option.

19. How do I clean and maintain plastic fencing?

Clean plastic fencing with water, mild soap and a soft brush to remove dirt and surface build-up. It does not need regular painting, staining or wood-preservative treatment. Periodically check posts, fixings and connections, especially after severe weather. Follow any additional care guidance supplied with your product.

20. How do I return an order?

Contact us with your order number and the reason for the return before sending goods back. We can explain the process and the conditions that apply to your purchase, including any arrangements for bespoke or made-to-order items. If goods arrive damaged or incorrect, contact us promptly with photographs. Please read our returns policy for further details.

21. What payment methods do you accept?

We accept card payments, bank transfers by BACS and cash. For cash payments, please bring the exact amount where possible. If you are arranging collection or placing an order directly with our team, contact us to confirm payment arrangements before your visit.

22. Can you repair or take back damaged plastic garden furniture?

Contact us with photographs and details of the damaged furniture. Depending on the product and damage, replacement components may allow you to repair it without replacing the whole item. Please speak to us before returning furniture so we can confirm the available options. If recycling is required, check acceptance with a suitable local facility first.

23. Do plastic benches and tables arrive assembled?

Assembly arrangements depend on the product and order size. Some plastic benches may be delivered assembled, while tables and larger furniture orders may arrive flat-packed on a pallet with instructions. Check the assembly requirements for your order before delivery, including the tools and help needed to move heavier components.

24. Can I order custom-made recycled plastic products?

Yes. We can discuss bespoke items made from our recycled plastic materials, including planters, tables, storage boxes, bin stores and dog houses. Send us your dimensions, intended use and any sketches or reference photographs. We can then discuss feasibility, material choices, pricing and lead times. Browse our plastic planters and raised beds for examples.

25. Do you offer fencing installation or furniture assembly?

Installation and assembly may be available for projects in central Scotland, generally within around 1–1.5 hours of our Penicuik warehouse. Availability depends on the location and scope of work. For projects further away, a local contractor may be more practical. Contact us to discuss your requirements and the installation guidance for your chosen products.

26. What is the difference between plastic sheets and plastic boards?

Plastic sheets provide a wider surface for panels, partitions and enclosures, while plastic boards are narrower profiles used for fencing, edging, furniture and framework. Choose between plastic sheets and plastic boards according to the dimensions, support and finish your project requires.

27. Can recycled plastic sheets replace plywood outdoors?

Recycled plastic sheets can provide an alternative to plywood for many outdoor panels, storage enclosures and landscaping projects. They resist moisture-related rot and do not require wood-preservative treatments. However, plastic behaves differently under load, so check the sheet thickness, support spacing and fixing requirements before replacing plywood.

28. What thickness of plastic sheet do I need?

The right plastic sheet thickness depends on its purpose, the distance between supports and the loads it will experience. A supported enclosure panel has different requirements from a freestanding partition. Browse our plastic sheet range to compare dimensions, then discuss your intended application with our team.

29. Are recycled plastic sheets the same as HDPE sheets?

Not necessarily. HDPE sheets are made from high-density polyethylene, whereas recycled plastic sheets may contain a blend of different plastics. LL Plastic’s general material information describes a mixed recycled plastic formulation. If your project specifically requires HDPE sheets, confirm the composition and specification of the individual product before ordering.

30. Can plastic sheets be used to build compost bin panels?

Yes, suitable plastic sheets can be used to create compost bin sides and dividers. Their moisture resistance makes them useful where panels are regularly exposed to damp organic material. Plan the bin with suitable supports, ventilation and access for turning or removing compost. We also offer recycled plastic compost bins.

31. Are plastic sheets suitable for animal housing?

Plastic sheets can be used for suitable animal-housing panels, partitions and enclosures. They provide a practical surface where regular cleaning and moisture resistance matter. The design must also account for ventilation, secure fixings, finished edges and the animals’ behaviour. Choose the material and construction for the particular enclosure.

32. What is plastic lumber?

Plastic lumber is a term for plastic boards and profiles used in applications that would traditionally use timber. Recycled plastic lumber is available in different shapes and dimensions for fencing, landscaping, furniture and other outdoor projects. It resembles timber in its practical uses, but has different expansion, flexibility and support requirements.

33. Can plastic boards be used for garden edging?

Yes. Suitable plastic boards can create edging around paths, lawns, flower beds and landscaping features. Their resistance to rot makes them useful beside damp soil. Select a profile that suits the height and layout of your edging, and secure it with appropriate supports while allowing for temperature-related movement.

34. Can I build raised beds with recycled plastic boards?

Yes. Recycled plastic boards can be used to construct raised beds and planters without the routine preservative treatment associated with timber. The design should provide drainage and enough support to withstand the pressure of the soil. You can also browse our ready-made plastic planters and raised beds.

35. Do plastic boards expand and contract with temperature?

Yes. Plastic boards expand as they warm up and contract as they cool down. Installation must allow for this movement through suitable gaps, fixing arrangements and supports. The required allowance depends on the product, board length and installation temperature, so follow the relevant guidance rather than using one gap size for every project.

36. Can plastic fence posts support wooden fence panels?

Suitable plastic fence posts can be used with traditional timber fencing as well as plastic fencing boards. This can be useful when replacing deteriorated wooden posts while retaining compatible panels. Check the post dimensions, panel weight and fixing arrangement to ensure the complete fence is properly supported.

37. Should I choose square or round plastic fence posts?

Square plastic fence posts are commonly chosen for garden boundaries and residential fencing. Round plastic fence posts are available for agricultural and rural applications. Compare our domestic plastic fence posts and agricultural plastic fence posts, selecting the dimensions and specification for your fencing system.

38. Is plastic fencing suitable for windy locations?

Plastic fencing can be used in exposed locations when the complete system is designed for the expected wind loads. Fence height, board spacing, post size, foundations and fixings all affect performance. Solid privacy fencing catches more wind than an open design, so material durability alone does not determine whether a fence is suitable.

39. How far apart should plastic fence posts be installed?

Plastic fence post spacing depends on the fence height, rail or panel dimensions, exposure and intended use. There is no single spacing suitable for every plastic fencing installation. Follow the guidance for the chosen system and account for the support needed by the boards or rails between posts.

40. Can plastic fence posts be used on farms and in horse paddocks?

Yes. Our agricultural plastic fence post range is intended for rural fencing projects. Choose posts, rails and fixings appropriate to the animals, fence layout and loads involved. For equestrian boundaries, explore our riding arena rail fencing and paddock fencing.

41. Can I create a picket fence using plastic fencing boards?

Yes. Plastic picket fence slats can be used to create a traditional-style boundary with less routine upkeep than painted timber. Plan the post positions, rails, slat spacing and fixings for your layout. Browse our plastic fencing boards and picket fence slats to compare available options.

42. What is the difference between recycled plastic decking and composite decking?

Solid recycled plastic decking and composite decking have different material formulations. Composite decking commonly combines plastic with wood fibres, although the composition varies by product. These differences can affect installation and care requirements. Compare our recycled plastic decking boards and composite decking using the specifications for each range.

43. Why use plastic decking joists instead of timber joists?

Plastic decking joists offer a moisture-resistant alternative to timber beneath a deck. This can be particularly useful where the supporting structure is regularly exposed to damp conditions. Our plastic decking joists must still be installed with the correct supports, spacing and fixings for the chosen decking system.

44. What joist spacing do plastic decking boards need?

Joist spacing depends on the decking board’s dimensions, specification and intended loading. Always use the guidance for the particular board rather than assuming the spacing used for timber decking will apply. The subframe also needs suitable foundations, drainage and allowances for movement to support the finished deck.

45. Can ordinary plastic boards be used as decking?

Not every plastic board is suitable as a walking surface. Decking requires an appropriate board profile, support arrangement and surface specification for its intended use. Choose a product intended for decking, or obtain confirmation that the proposed board is suitable before using general-purpose plastic lumber for a deck or walkway.

46. Are plastic benches suitable for schools and public spaces?

Plastic benches can provide practical outdoor seating for schools, parks and communal areas, with no routine staining or timber-preservative treatment required. Select a model suitable for the expected use, and consider accessibility, positioning and anchoring. Browse our plastic benches to compare designs.

47. Are recycled plastic picnic tables suitable for pubs and visitor attractions?

Recycled plastic picnic tables can be a useful choice for outdoor hospitality and visitor areas where furniture receives frequent use and weather exposure. Consider seating capacity, accessibility, available space and any securing requirements. Our plastic picnic tables and benches provide options for a range of outdoor settings.

48. What are the advantages of plastic planters over wooden planters?

Plastic planters resist moisture-related rot and do not need regular wood-preservative treatments. This makes them useful where the container remains in contact with damp soil throughout the year. As with any planter, choose suitable dimensions, provide drainage and consider the weight of the filled container when deciding where to position it.

49. Can plastic paddock grids help with muddy gateways?

Yes. Plastic paddock mud control grids and mats can reinforce heavily used ground around gateways, feeding areas and field-shelter entrances. Their performance depends on the ground conditions, drainage and installation. Choose a product and ground preparation method suited to the traffic the area will receive.

50. What are plastic tongue-and-groove stable boards used for?

Plastic tongue-and-groove stable boards provide interlocking profiles for suitable stable panels and partitions. The adjoining edges help create a continuous panel within an appropriate supporting frame. Choose the board thickness, framing and fixings for the installation and expected loads. Browse our plastic T&G stable boards for available options.

Need help choosing the right plastic products?

Whether you are planning garden fencing, replacing timber boards or creating a bespoke outdoor feature, we can help you compare suitable materials. Browse our plastic products or contact LL Plastic to discuss your project.

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