What Is Artificial Wood?

Inspired by contemporary innovation, artificial wood products may contain wood byproducts or consist entirely of plastic, vinyl or aluminum.

Artificial Wood Formulas -- Composites

One type of artificial wood is made with wood byproducts and other ingredients. Sometimes referred to as a composite wood product, the formula is a concoction of plastic chips or shreds, resins, adhesives, wood chips and/or sawdust. When combined with heat and pressure, the materials bond together to create a durable material that's weather-resistant. Unlike some rough-lumber products that can deviate plus or minus 1/16 to 1/8 inch or more in their dimensions, artificial wood products are consistent, without significant deviations. The face, or outer layer of the material, is often stamped with a faux grain pattern that looks like wood. Standard artificial wood or composite wood typically comes in three colors: brown, green or tan.

Artificial Wood Properties

Artificial wood is insect resistant. It's virtually maintenance-free and can be washed off with a hose. Mold and mildew are not prone to inhabit artificial wood; if either does occur, it washes off with soap and water. Artificial wood products never need to be sanded, scraped, refinished or stained -- but stain is an option to change the color of composite wood. The maintenance-free, durable quality of artificial wood makes it a viable option to natural wood even though the initial investment for artificial wood is higher. Most artificial wood products are designed for exterior use, with built-in UV protection against fading.

Project Applications

Artificial wood is heavy; the density is part of the appeal. It's solid and resists splitting, cracking or warping. Synthetic or artificial wood cuts and mills using common woodworking tools. The uniform, consistent quality of artificial wood expedites projects. With standard lengths exceeding 16 feet, decks, fences and exterior projects go up faster. Natural boards exceeding 16 feet in length can be hard to find without variations such as warps, twists or knots. Drawbacks to artificial wood may include requirements for larger screws, brackets, fasteners and other hardware needed to support the extra weight. Artificial wood may appear industrial; it doesn't have the natural patterns, beauty and appeal of real wood.

Plastic, Vinyl and Aluminum

Plastic wood is manufactured with polyvinyl chloride or polyethylene. Plastic wood is 100 percent plastic and looks like plastic. It has a slick, shiny surface. It's doesn't require finishing. It's stain and weather resistant and won't crack, warp, or splinter. Vinyl is an artificial wood product commonly used as a wood shake or siding replacement, for fencing or other exterior building product. Vinyl is often printed or textured to resemble cedar, but more affordable than cedar. Vinyl is resistant to bugs, moisture and is available in many colors. Aluminum is also an artificial wood product. Typically used for exterior siding or cladding, aluminum is a money-saving alternative to real wood or other wood substitute. Aluminum is lightweight, easy to work with and is available with a textured surface to resemble wood grain. It's durable, low-maintenance, fire-proof and will not rot. Drawbacks include corrosion and the fact that aluminum is easy to dent or scratch.