Actor Brad Pitt’s Make It Right Foundation, which has built 100 energy-efficient new homes in the Hurricane Katrina-ravaged Lower 9th Ward, is considering legal action against the manufacturer of an innovative glass-infused wood that was used in some of the homes’ outdoor steps and front porches. The wood has begun rotting, despite being guaranteed for 40 years, a Make It Right spokeswoman said. — theneworleansadvocate.com
7 Comments
Make It Rot? At least the acronym doesn't change.
Would real wood have rotted the same way? And can anyone give a really solid example of a replica material that has EVER performed better than a "real" one when used in the same application?
Sorry, slight misunderstanding. Apparently this *is* wood, from a tree, but infused with a chemical preservative that didn't deliver as promised. In my initial reading I thought it was Hardi-Plank or something.
So they replace the pooches on a few homes, it is not used inside and should be a relatively simple but still costly fix. I don't think this solvable problem is reason enough to condemn Make it Right Foundation, they still managed to build desperately needed homes despite the governments inability and unwillingness to act in a timely manner.
Innovation is an inherently risky venture and failures are bound to happen.
Peter N
I was kidding (not so helpfully) in the first post, and I think Peter's take on the houses is correct. The only reason this is even (in the) news is that there's a celebrity name attached to it.
Exactly, and I agree too Peter.
TimberSIL® wood has gone through a sodium-silicate-based process for treating wood that relies on a micro-manufacturing technology to create an effective barrier to rot, decay and common wood problems. The patented process uses heat to change a proprietary formula from a soluble solution that is infused into the wood and turn it into a microscopic layer of amorphous glass throughout the wood, providing an effective, permanent barrier. The wood is non-toxic, odorless and nonvolatile, is not corrosive to fasteners, does not cause excessive wear on tools, and has a natural clear color. TimberSIL® Decking and other exterior products carry a 40-year warranty.
Kudos to Pitt for leveraging his status and cash for a good cause.
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