Installation Guide

ARCHITECTURAL PVC FAQS
What paint can I use on PVC?
If you choose to paint, use 100% acrylic latex paint with an LRV of 55 or higher. Definition of LRV (Light Reflective Value):
LRV is the amount of light reflected from a painted surface. Black has a reflectance value of Zero (0) and absorbs all light
and heat. White has a reflectance value of nearly 100 and keeps a building light and cool. All colors fit between these two
extremes. Light Reflective Values are given as a percentage. For example, a color with a LRV of 55 means it will reflect 55%
of the light that falls on it. For darker colors (LRV of 54 of lower) use paints with heat reflective characteristics specifically
formulated for use on vinyl/PVC products. These paints/coatings are designed to reduce excessive heat gain. WARNING:
It is recommended that should you choose to paint a darker color (LRV of 54 or lower) all aforementioned installation steps
should be followed. Please refer to the painting section in our Trim Installation Guidelines.
What type of fasteners should be used to install PVC?
You will want to use the same fasteners you would use for installing wood trim and siding. They should be stainless steel or
hot dipped galvanized and long enough to penetrate the substrate a minimum of 1-1/2”. For best results, use fasteners
designed for wood trim and wood siding. These fasteners have a thinner shank, blunt point, and full round head. Standard
nail guns work well with PVC. If using pneumatic tools, use a fastener with a full round head and set the pressure so the
fastener goes just beneath the surface of the board. IMPORTANT: Staples, brads, and wire nails should never be used.
These products have shanks that are too small in diameter to control the thermal expansion and contraction properties of
PVC. For a finished look the Cortex fastening system can be used to reduce the need to field apply paint when the trim is
going to be left white.
Can PVC trim be used in structural application?
No, PVC cannot be used in structural applications. WARNING: PVC trim products cannot be used in any stress or structural
applications. PVC products can only be used as the decorative part of your application; either wood or metal structural
components need to be incorporated for structural applications. Check with your architect or builder if your application is
structural.
What products are available in PVC?
Corbels, braces, brackets, outlookers, gable brackets and
gable pediments, rafter tails, gable vents, arch and flat trim,
decorative running trim, ceiling medallions, panels, moulding,
columns, pilasters, pediments, shutters, and more.
We also specialize in custom orders for hard-to-find products.
Industry leading manufacturer of urethane, PVC, wood, rustic, and metal millwork.
- Making custom standard with our exclusive PVC product designers
- We have faux wood beams, ceiling medallions, wall panels, columns, balustrade, and much more
design your own with our online builders