Expansion Contraction of VERSATEX Trimboard

VERSATEX expands and contracts with changes in temperature. Properly fastening and bonding VERSATEX along its entire length will minimize expansion and contraction.

Use stainless steel nails or screws designed for wood trim and long enough to penetrate the
substrate a minimum of 1 1/2.” Screws are better for limiting the thermal Versatex movement of the trim.
Allow VERSATEX to acclimate to outside temperature before installing.
Allow 3/16-inch space per 18-foot run of VERSATEX for expansion and contraction. Use a UV resistant acrylic based, polymer based, or polyurethane caulk to fill any gaps between boards for appearance. NPC’s solar seal 900 in trimboard white is recommended with VERSATEX.
Bond joints between pieces of VERSATEX to eliminate separation. Be sure to allow adequate expansion and contraction space at the ends of these long runs. See bonding solutions in technical bulletin B-3.
Product that cannot be face nailed in accordance with our recommended on center spacing will require more room to accommodate expansion.
Product facing direct sunlight may be susceptible to a larger temperature range.
You can further restrict product expansion and contraction by decreasing the on center spacing between fasteners to 12” or less and bonding boards to substrate when feasible to do so.
When utilizing a bevel or shiplap joint, leave a full 3/16” gap when installing on a day where temperatures range from 35°F to 45°F.
When utilizing a bevel or shiplap joint, leave a gap just large enough to accept a bead of sealant when installing on a day when temperatures range
from 80°F to 100°F.
Scarf cut joints are prefered over butt joints.