Treated Lumber vs. Aluminum Environmental Impact

Treated Lumber:  Risk of soil/water contamination from preservatives; deforestation concerns if not sustainably sourced. 

Aluminum:  Recycled aluminum avoid mining impacts and lower energy use in processing.

Treated Lumber:  Lower upfront emissions, but frequent replacement  and end of life disposal release carbons and toxins, increasing the overall footprint.

Aluminum:   Recycled aluminum has 92-95% fewer carbon emissions and it infinite recyclability reduces its overall footprint.

Treated Lumber:   Difficult: treated wood cannot be safely burned or composted; must go to landfill or specialized disposal.

Aluminum:   Highly recyclable; aluminum retains quality through repeated recycling, retains an end-of-life value. 

Treated Lumber:   Requires sealing, staining, and replacement of damaged boards. 

Aluminum:  Minimal maintenance; occasional cleaning only. 

Treated Lumber:  10–25 years with maintenance; prone to rot, warping, and insect damage. 

Aluminum:   30–50+ years; resistant to corrosion, rot, and weathering. 

Treated Lumber:  Pressure-treated with preservatives (copper, arsenic, or newer alternatives) that can leach into soil/water. 

Aluminum:   No chemical leaching during use; inert material. 

Chose EZ Beach Steps Aluminum Stair System