ASTM D7032
Full Name
ASTM D7032 – Standard Specification for Establishing Performance Ratings for Wood-Plastic Composite and Plastic Lumber Deck Boards, Stair Treads, Guards, and Handrails
Scope
ASTM D7032 is a standard specification that establishes a framework for evaluating and rating the performance of wood-plastic composite (WPC) and plastic lumber products used in outdoor structures like decks, stairs, guards, and handrails. The primary goal of this standard is to ensure the safety, durability, and performance of these materials in exterior applications.
The scope of ASTM D7032 includes:
- Material testing: the standard outlines various tests to evaluate the material properties of WPC and plastic lumber, such as:
- Temperature effects (high and low)
- Moisture effects
- UV resistance
- Freeze-thaw resistance
- Biodeterioration resistance (fungal decay and termite resistance)
- Surface burning characteristics
- Structural testing: the standard also includes structural tests to assess the performance of these materials under load, such as:
- Bending strength and stiffness
- Impact resistance
- Fastener performance
- Performance ratings: based on the test results, the standard establishes performance ratings for WPC and plastic lumber products. These ratings help specifiers and consumers choose suitable materials for their specific applications.
- Code recognition: the ultimate aim of this standard is to provide a basis for code recognition of WPC and plastic lumber products in exterior applications. This means that building codes can reference ASTM D7032 to ensure that these materials meet the minimum performance requirements for safety and durability.
By providing a comprehensive set of test methods and performance criteria, ASTM D7032 plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and reliability of WPC and plastic lumber products used in outdoor construction.
ASTM D7032 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM D7032 standard.
Our laboratory offers comprehensive testing services to evaluate the performance of your WPC and plastic lumber deck systems according to ASTM D7032. By partnering with us, you can ensure your decking products meet the required performance benchmarks, achieve code compliance, and build trust with your customers. Let us help you create safe, durable, and high-performing exterior spaces.
Contact us for more information.
Resources
Keywords
wood-plastic composite; plastic lumber; performance ratings; deck boards; stair treads; guards; handrails; structural testing; bending strength; stiffness; material testing; moisture effects; temperature effects; UV resistance; freeze-thaw resistance; biodeterioration resistance; surface burning characteristics; fastener performance; impact resistance