Modern construction and design trends are increasingly focusing on sustainability and environmental responsibility. As such, there has been a growing demand for building materials that not only offer high performance but also have a low impact on the environment.
While classic building materials like wood, concrete, and steel are still widely used, there is a rising interest in alternative options that offer similar strength and durability without causing harm to the planet. One such material is the range of Stokbord sheets in various thicknesses, which have gained popularity in recent years due to their all-round versatility and eco-friendly nature.
Manufacture Process Overview
Recycling and repurposing waste materials is a crucial aspect of sustainable building practices. Stokbord sheets are made from 100% recycled agricultural plastic waste, which would otherwise end up in landfills or pollute the environment.
The plastic is collected, sorted, and cleaned before being melted down and extruded into sheets. This process not only reduces the amount of plastic waste but also requires less energy compared to traditional manufacturing processes.
Once the sheets are produced, they can be cut, drilled, or shaped to meet specific project requirements. This flexibility makes Stokbord sheets suitable for a wide range of applications.
Main Features of Stokbord Sheets
One of the defining traits of these sheets is their tough and durable nature. They are resistant to impact, chemicals, moisture, and UV radiation, making them highly suitable for outdoor use. This also means that they require minimal maintenance and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional building materials.
Another key feature of Stokbord sheets is their ease of maintenance. They can be easily cleaned with soap and water, and any scratches or scuffs can be sanded down without compromising the integrity of the sheet.
They’re quite easy to fabricate as well, with the ability to be welded or mechanically fixed together. This means that complex shapes and structures can be created without the need for specialized tools or techniques.
Finally, they’re non-toxic and fully recyclable, which further emphasizes their sustainability and environmental benefits. You won’t have to worry about harmful chemicals leaching into the soil or water, making Stokbord sheets a safe and eco-friendly choice for building projects.
What Is a Stokbord Used For?
Despite being originally designed for agricultural use, Stokbord sheets have found their way into various industries and applications. Some common examples include:
Livestock Housing and Pens
You can line your livestock housing and pens with Stokbord sheets to protect the walls from damage caused by animals. The sheets’ durability ensures that they can withstand regular wear and tear, as well as the occasional kick or chew from animals.
Equestrian Arenas
Given the impact resistance of this material, you can also use Stokbord sheets as barriers or fencing in equestrian arenas. They can withstand the force of a horse’s kick, ensuring the safety of both the animal and the rider. The twists, turns, and jumps of an arena can also be created with Stokbord sheets since they can be easily moulded into different shapes and sizes.
Gates and Fences
While traditional materials such as wood or metal are commonly used for gates and fences, Stokbord sheets offer a more durable and long-lasting alternative. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and won’t rot or rust like other materials. As a result, they require less maintenance and are a cost-effective option in the long run.
Trailer Flooring
Since most trailers are used to transport heavy loads, the flooring needs to be strong and durable. Stokbord sheets are an excellent choice for trailer flooring as they can withstand the weight of heavy machinery and equipment without showing signs of wear or damage.
Wall Lining and Cladding
Due to the material’s resistance to water, chemicals and UV rays, Stokbord sheets are also an ideal choice for wall lining and cladding in various industries. They can protect walls from moisture and chemical damage, making them suitable for use in factories, warehouses, and other industrial settings.
How to Install and Use Stokbord Sheets
In most cases, this material requires the same tools as wood when it comes to cutting and fixing. However, depending on the specific application, specialized tools may be required.
For instance, CNC routers can be used for more precise and intricate cuts, while heat guns can help mould the sheets into specific shapes. You can adjust the speed and temperature of the router or heat gun to achieve different results based on your needs.
Moreover, circular saws with carbide-tipped blades offer a more efficient and clean way to cut the sheets compared to traditional wood saws. This is because the material is denser and harder than wood, so using a dull blade can result in jagged edges.
When installing Stokbord sheets, it’s important to use the appropriate fixings for the specific application. For example, stainless steel screws or nails are recommended for outdoor applications as they won’t corrode over time.
You can use tungsten carbide-tipped drills to pre-drill holes in the sheets before fixing them, as this will help prevent cracking or splitting. It’s also essential to leave a small gap between sheets when installing them to allow for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
Before fixing the sheets to any surface, you should leave them at room temperature for at least 24 hours. This will allow the material to acclimate and prevent any warping or cracking during installation.
You could opt for welding or adhesive bonding for a more permanent and seamless installation. However, these methods require specialized skills and equipment, so it’s important to consult an expert before attempting them.
You need good joint preparation when using welding or adhesive bonding techniques to ensure a strong and long-lasting bond. This involves thoroughly cleaning and roughening the surface of the sheets before applying the welding or adhesive material.
When you have the right heat and temperature settings, you could use a heat gun or hot air welder to directly bond two sheets together. This method is commonly used in roofing applications and ensures a water-tight seal, especially when used in conjunction with a waterproofing membrane.
As far as weld rods are concerned, PVC or polyethylene plastic rods are commonly used for welding Stokbord sheets. You could also opt for self-adhesive weld tapes that can be applied with the help of a hot air welder.