Leiths offer tables, benches of recycled materials
Leith, Inc., Marion, is selling picnic tables and benches made of recycled tires and plastic.
"After all you hear about recycling, somebody surfaces that's doing something with the material," said Troy Leith, who owns the business with his brother, Dave.
Rubber is the main product used for the legs. Plastic is used for the table top, bench back, and seats. The components are bolted together at the Leiths' auto repair business on South Third Street.
The plastic and rubber components are smooth and dry. A substance to protect against breakdown by ultraviolet rays is added during the molding process, Leith said.
No paint needed
Benches and tables don't have to be painted. Pigments are mixed with the various components, green for tables, brown for benches, so the color goes all the way through the "boards."
Flecks of various-colored plastics show in the table and bench. Most of the flecks are white, but yellow, blue, and red also were seen.
Benches and tables are heavy and durable. The four-foot-long table weighs about 300 pounds, Leith said.
They may be safer than traditional wood and metal products, too.
"I don't see how it could splinter," Leith said.
If there is interest, the company may expand into six-foot or eight-foot tables, Leith said.
"You wonder how many milk jugs go into making just one of these tables," he said.
Cost is $100 per bench and $210 per table. Individuals, businesses, and government entities wanting more information on the tables can contact the Leiths at 382-3333.
