The Journey of Recycled PVC: From Return Polymers to AZEK Products

Every day, tons of PVC waste are given a second life thanks to Return Polymers. What was once destined for the landfill (old siding, window trim, fencing, or decking scraps) now finds new purpose in high-performance, sustainable building materials. This transformation begins at Return Polymers’ recycling facilities and continues through its partnership with AZEK, a leading manufacturer committed to circular innovation.

Step 1: Collection: Giving PVC a Second Chance
Return Polymers partners with manufacturers, distributors, and construction professionals across the country to collect post-industrial and post-consumer PVC materials. These materials come from a variety of sources, including production scrap, jobsite leftovers, and decommissioned products at the end of their service life. Each load is carefully inspected and sorted to ensure that only clean, recyclable PVC enters the next stage of the process.

Step 2: Processing: From Scrap to High-Quality Resin
Once collected, the PVC materials are processed using advanced recycling technology designed to preserve quality and consistency.

• Sorting and cleaning: Contaminants, labels, and non-PVC materials are removed.

• Shredding and granulating: The PVC is reduced into uniform chips or flakes.

• Separation and refinement: Specialized systems ensure purity and consistent material characteristics.

• Blending and pelletizing: The recycled PVC is transformed into high-quality pellets ready for reuse.

This process allows Return Polymers to supply recycled PVC that meets the demanding standards of manufacturers like AZEK proving that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand.

Step 3: Transformation: From Recycled PVC to AZEK Decking
The recycled PVC resin produced by Return Polymers plays a central role in the creation of AZEK’s premium building materials. AZEK uses these recycled materials in products such as TimberTech® decking, AZEK Trim, Cladding, and Moulding—each designed to perform beautifully and last for decades. Many of these products are made from up to 100% recycled content, showcasing how waste can be turned into something durable, attractive, and valuable.

Step 4: Sustainability Impact: Closing the Loop
Through this partnership, millions of pounds of PVC are diverted from landfills each year. Instead of becoming waste, these materials contribute to a circular system that reduces carbon emissions, conserves natural resources, and promotes long-term sustainability. Together, Return Polymers and AZEK are redefining what’s possible for recycled building materials. Turning yesterday’s waste into tomorrow’s innovation.

Step 5: Building a Better Future
The journey of recycled PVC doesn’t end when it becomes a deck board or trim. It’s just beginning a new chapter in a longer life cycle. Every piece of AZEK product made with recycled PVC tells a story of collaboration, responsibility, and progress toward a more sustainable world.

Be part of the circular economy. Discover how Return Polymers turns recycled PVC into high-performance materials that help build a more sustainable future.

Learn more about PVC recycling at Return Polymers