SYNTHETIC MEMBERS AS A REPLACEMENT FOR LUMBER

摘要

A synthetic member for use as a substitute for conventional lumber comprising a length of composite material formed from particulate material bound together with a plastic binder and having a generally rectilinear cros s section corresponding to the cross section of the lumber for which it is to be substituted. The synthetic member is reinforced by one or more elongated reinforcing members formed of material having tensile strength. Each reinforcing member is securely embedded or and anchored in the plastic material of the synthetic member and extends the length thereof to provide longitudinal stability. For high load bearing capacity the synthetic member has at least one of such reinforcing members located adjacent each of the upper and lower edges thereof.