VERSATEX Trimboard - Trim Smarter
What is VERSATEX?
VERSATEX is a cellular PVC product manufactured using a free foam extrusion process. VERSATEX is made from an exclusive polymer blend. VERSATEX cuts, routs, and fastens just like wood and has a density similar to white pine. Available in both a Smooth Finish and our classic rough cedar Timber Ridge texture, VERSATEX is available in an attractive low-gloss white that complements any home exterior.
Why is VERSATEX an ideal replacement for wood trim?
Since VERSATEX is made from PVC, the preferred plastic material for the building construction industry. It is strong and durable, but lightweight and easy to install. It is non-toxic, recyclable, and self-extinguishing. It will not rot, warp, delaminate, cup or twist. It is also impervious to salts, insects and many chemicals, including some acids.
Are there environmental advantages to using VERSATEX PVC trim?
Yes. Lifecycle analysis and independent studies have shown PVC’s environmental impact to be favorable when compared to other materials used for construction. PVC has a low energy demand in manufacturing and longevity in service. Thus, it is a cost effective material both economically and environmentally. PVC can be recycled and can be used in mixed plastic recycling. It can also be safely incinerated. For additional information check out the VERSATEX green site.
What are the environmental attributes of VERSATEX PVC trim?
All vinyl scrap generated during our process is recycled back into the finished product.
VERSATEX cellular PVC is a “Durable” product that conserves materials and eliminates pollution associated with manufacturing shorter life alternative products.
VERSATEX cellular PVC trim does not require the use of paint, stain, or harsh cleansers. Wood trims, on the other hand, do require the use of these products on a regular basis.
VERSATEX cellular PVC is lighter to transport than most other building products, reducing the amount of fuel and other resources used for such transportation.
VERSATEX cellular PVC saves the environment, since it is a replacement for wood trim; thus, it helps prevent deforestation.
The PVC resin used to produce VERSATEX cellular PVC is made from a combination of natural gas, which is a fossil fuel and 57% salt. This is why it is called poly vinyl chloride, since chlorine is 57% of the base component. Most other plastics are 100% hydro-carbon based.
The PVC resin used to produce VERSATEX cellular PVC uses less energy in manufacturing than any other plastic material.
For additional information check out the VERSATEX green site.
What makes VERSATEX different than other PVC trimboards?
VERSATEX prides itself on flexibility, innovation, value added products and unmatched product quality and service. We offer a “cut to length/width program” for both boards and sheets. In addition, our factory-built Mixed Nuts units, with the five most popular widths in three thicknesses, are a perfect way for any dealer to optimize their current inventory. We were the first to bring to market 20’ long corners, 4” beadboard, nominal 8” wide corners, nominal 16” wide trimboards, and our patent pending Stealth Trim System.
In what sizes and profiles is VERSATEX available?
VERSATEX has the greatest product offering of any PVC trimboard on the market. We offer trimboards in 5/8”, 4/4”, 5/4”, and 6/4” thicknesses. Our board widths are nominal 2”, 3 ”, 4”, 5”, 6”, 8”, 10”, 12”, 16”. Standard lengths are 18 and 20 foot. Sheet products are available in ¼”, 3/8”, ½”, 5/8”, ¾”, 1” and 1 1/4” and in four foot widths and a variety of lengths. We also offer two widths of bead both in ½” thicknesses, and nominal 4”, 6” and 8 ” corners in 10’ and 20’ lengths. In addition, VERSATEX can offer cut to length skid quantities for projects or other unique applications, and our mixed nut skids which are an assortment of 4”, 6”, 8”, 10” and 12” boards factory wrapped in a particular thickness.
Is VERSATEX warranted?
VERSATEX offers a limited 30 year warranty against distortion, delaminating or decay. The VERSATEX warranty is also the only transferable warranty in the PVC trimboard industry.
Can VERSATEX Trimboard be used in structural applications like decking?
No. VERSATEX can only be used in non load bearing situations. See our installation guidelines or technical bulletins for more details.
What are some of the uses of VERSATEX Trimboard and sheet?
VERSATEX can be used for any exterior trim application including fascia, soffits, window and door surrounds, deck and porch trim, rake and frieze boards, wainscoting, post and column wraps, raised pan els for window treatments or cabinetry, outside shower stalls and just about any millwork or industrial application where wood is used.
How should I store VERSATEX?
Since VERSATEX trim products are more flexible than wood, they have a tendency to conform to the surface on which it is stored and should be placed on a flat level surface. Be sure not to store VERSATEX in areas prone to heat build up like asphalt driveways or roofs.
How do I glue VERSATEX to itself?
We recommend Weld-On 705 PVC glue which is a white, medium bodied, fast setting PVC adhesive with a working time of about 3 to 5 minutes. You can purchase this glue from any VERSATEX dealer. Most PVC cements bond well to VERSATEX, however, we recommend you try bonding two sample pieces of VERSATEX together as a test before using it on a project. Please see Technical Bulletin B-3 for more information on bonding VERSATEX.
How do I clean VERSATEX?
Most dirt can be removed with a mild detergent and water. For more stubborn stains, try a mild household cleaner & degreaser like Clorox Cleanup or Clorox Outdoors, alcohol or Softscrub with bleach. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser will also remove stains, dirt and grease.
Do I have to paint VERSATEX Trimboards?
VERSATEX does not need to be painted to validate the warranty. Made from an exclusive polymer blend, VERSATEX provides excellent weather resistance, no matter how harsh and moist the environment.
Can I paint VERSATEX?
Yes. VERSATEX received a 5A adhesion rating (no peel or removal) when tested in accordance with ASTM D 3359 – Cross Cut Tape Test. Make sure the surface is clean and dry and free of dirt, chalk, grease and other surface contaminants before paint application. Since VERSATEX is impervious to moisture, there is no moisture in the product to cause paint peeling. Thus, painted VERSATEX holds paint years longer than wood.
What type of paint should I use to paint VERSATEX?
If painting is preferred, follow these guidelines. See Technical Bulletin Nos. B-1, B-2, B-4, B-5 and B-6 for more information on VERSATEX paint specifications and application. IMPORTANT - Use 100% acrylic latex or a latex with urethane additive with a light reflective value (LRV) equal to or greater than 55 units. Consult Sherwin Williams or Blue River Coating in applications where the paint color has an equivalent LRV less that 55 units.
Does VERSATEX come in any other color than white?
VERSATEX is available only in white, which is consistent through the products thickness. However, as stated above, VERSATEX can be painted.
Is there a warranty if I paint VERSATEX?
VERSATEX does not provide a paint warranty since the product does not require painting. We recommend you contact your paint company to determine whether or not they will warrant the application of their approved paints over VERSATEX. PPG does provide a warranty for the machine coating of VERSATEX. The warranty is one coat – 10 years and two coats – 25 years.
What type of tools do I need when working with VERSATEX?
VERSATEX is easier to work with than wood, requiring no special tools. Since VERSATEX is a more consistent and predictable material you can nail, cut, rout, mould or glue it in the same fashion you would treat wood. With VERSATEX, you don’t have to deal with grain, knots, warping or other natural inconsistencies in wood that can negatively impact its workability. At VERSATEX our motto is, “Anything wood can do VERSATEX can do better”. Please visit the technical bulletin section on our website for more detailed information on how to rout, mould, cut and glue VERSATEX.
How do I fasten or join VERSATEX?
As with wood, VERSATEX can be fastened or joined to itself or other substrates using nails, screws, PVC glues, quality polyurethane adhesives, and cyanoacrylates or Super glues. A bevel or scarf cut joint works best. Butt joints are not recommended. For more information on fastening, joining or gluing VERSATEX please visit the technical bulletins, Section “B” of our website.
What type of fasteners work best with VERSATEX?
Rust proof fasteners made of stainless steel with thin shanks, blunt points and full round heads are preferred. The nail should be strong enough to resist being bent with your bare hands. VERSATEX does not require pre-drilling unless large fasteners are required, or if the product is installed in extremely cold temperatures. If fastening with screws, use wood or deck screws with coarse threads. Stainless stee are preferred. Avoid using full ring shank nails or fine threaded wood screws. Keep fasteners ½” from the edges and install fasteners a maximum of 16” on center. Power nailing guns can be used to fasten VERSATEX. Nail gun pressure is dependent upon the type of gun, nail size and the ambient and product temperature at time of fastening.
How do I fill the nail holes?
It all depends on whether you plan to paint it or leave it white. If you plan to leave it white, be sure the filler you choose is a close color match to the white VERSATEX trimboard and is approved for exterior use. Some recommended fillers include VERSATEX Fill n’ Fasten, and some exterior grade spacklings with titanium dioxide.
Does VERSATEX support combustion?
No. VERSATEX has an oxygen index value greater than 28 which classifies it as self-extinguishing. Removing an active flame will stop any further charring of the product.
Does VERSATEX expand or contract with temperature changes?
All cellular PVC trimboards expand and contract with changes in temperature. The coefficient of linear expansion for VERSATEX as defined by ASTM test D696 is 3.25 x 10-5 in/in/F. In layman’ s terms, depending on the outside temperature you should allow approximately 3/16” for expansion or contraction in an 18’ length of board.
Can VERSATEX be bent into other shapes?
Yes. VERSATEX can be thermoformed along its length or across its width into an assortment of shapes in a fraction of time it takes to curve natural wood products.
Is VERSATEX a good insulator?
VERSATEX cellular PVC is a better insulator than white pine. The air pockets trapped within each cell of VERSATEX gives it an “R” value almost twice that of white pine.
Can VERSATEX be used with cement fiber siding?
Yes. Most of today’s fiber cement trims are heavy, difficult to work with and tend to absorb too much moisture. VERSATEX’s is ideal for use with fiber cement sidings since it will not absorb moisture, can be used in direct contact with masonry and concrete, and is lightweight. In addition, our distinctive Timber Ridge embossing pattern is an excellent match to the texture on any cement fiber siding.
Are there any safety concerns when using VERSATEX?
Just like wood, cutting VERSATEX will create dust. You need to take the same precautions you would follow when cutting wood. VERSATEX should be cut in an open, well ventilated area. When cutting with a power saw workers must wear a mask and safety glasses.
Where do I go if I have a question on VERSATEX?
You can contact us at (724) 857-1111. We will answer any question you may have and put you in touch with our sales representative in your area. Or, just visit our website where there is a wealth of information about the product. You can also use the contact section on our website and e-mail us any question you may have concerning our product.
Where can I buy VERSATEX?
VERSATEX is available through many local lumber dealers. A list of VERSATEX authorized dealers can be found on our website at our dealer locator. If you are interested in becoming a VERSATEX authorized dealer, please give us a call at (724) 857-1111 or visit our link become a dealer.