Exterior trim material is a type of building material that is specifically designed to be used for the finishing touches on the exterior of a structure. It is used to provide a more attractive and finished look to the outside walls and windows.
Exterior trim comes in a variety of materials, such as wood, PVC, stucco, brick, vinyl, metal, and other plastic and composites. Some of these materials are chosen for their durability and attractive appearance, while others, such as stucco and brick, are chosen for their more traditional, classic look.
Exterior trim is typically installed along windows and doors, as well adding decorative touches to the corners and eaves of a house. It is generally thought of as a low-maintenance product, and it does not require painting or staining often if ever.
For these reasons, exterior trim is a popular option for modern construction.
How long does exterior wood trim last?
The lifespan of exterior wood trim depends on the type of wood used, the climate, and how it is maintained. Woods with high natural durability such as redwood, cedar, cypress, and pressure-treated wood typically last up to 10-15 years, whereas softer woods such as pine may only last for 2-3 years.
In areas that are subjected to extreme temperatures and moisture, the lifespan may be significantly shorter. Proper maintenance such as sealing and painting can help extend the life of the wood trim.
Depending on the quality of the sealant or paint and how often it is used, the wood can be protected for up to 15 years or longer. It’s also important to keep the wood clean and free from debris and dirt, as this can reduce the lifespan significantly.
Can I use pressure-treated wood for exterior trim?
Yes, pressure-treated wood can be used for exterior trim. Pressure-treated wood is designed to resist moisture and insect damage, making it an ideal choice for outdoor trim. Pressure-treated wood is typically treated with environmentally safe wood preservatives that penetrate into the wood and help to extend its lifespan.
It is important to select pressure-treated wood specifically for outdoor trim and look for a longer-lasting product like those treated with copper, borate, and micronized copper. It’s also important to note that pressure-treated wood is available in several different grades and some may be more suitable for outdoor trim than others.
For example, there are some grades that are treated for both ground contact and decay resistant. It’s important to read the label and choose a product that is right for your project’s application. Painting or staining pressure-treated wood is also recommended if used outdoors, as the paint or stain will help protect the product from the elements.
Can you use cedar as exterior trim?
Yes, you can use cedar as exterior trim. Cedar is an ideal material for using on the exterior of your building as it offers several advantages. Cedar is naturally resistant to insects, decay, and rot, making it a long-lasting option.
Additionally, cedar also has a beautiful natural look that can add visual interest and character to the outside of your structure. Cedar also offers superior weather resistance, as it is able to maintain its structural integrity during heavy rains, high winds, and extreme temperatures.
Additionally, it can be easily stained or painted to match any exterior design. When using cedar as exterior trim, it is important to maintain it by giving it an occasional coat of preservative to help protect it from the elements.
How do you replace exterior window trim?
Replacing exterior window trim is a fairly straight forward process and can be done in a few steps.
First, you’ll need to measure the window frame and cut the new trim to the appropriate length. Once your trim is cut to size, you’ll want to use a nail gun to secure the trim around the window frame.
If you don’t have access to a nail gun, you can use wood screws to attach the trim.
Next, use an exterior caulk to seal the gaps between the trim and the window frame. Make sure to choose a caulking product that is suitable for exterior use. This will ensure that your window trim seal is secure and will last for a long time.
Once you’ve secured the trim and caulked the gaps, you’ll want to paint it the same color as the rest of the trim around your home. Once the paint is dry, you should have a secure and attractive window trim for your home.
Which molding is typically used around exterior windows and doors?
Exterior windows and doors typically utilize trim molding, or otherwise known as “moulding. ” There are a variety of different trim moldings available, depending on one’s desired aesthetic look. Generally, trim moldings can be used to dress up the plainer edges around windows and doors, adding a finished touch.
Windows typically use a flat trim molding, which provides a flat surface to install or terminate a trim or siding material. For doorways, a cope and stick trim molding is often used to dress up the appearance.
The cope and stick approach creates a smooth outer edge that is durable and less likely to crack with movement. Other types of trim moldings may be used such as corner blocks and rosettes, which are more decorative pieces that can be used to add additional detail to a window or door installation.
What are trim boards made of?
Trim boards (also called moldings) are decorative strips of wood or synthetic materials with different profiles that are used to create an eye-catching detail in a room. These boards are usually made of wood, but they can also be made of other materials such as plastic, metal, or foam.
Wood trim boards are most commonly made of pine, with the most popular species being red oak. Other species used include ash, poplar, walnut, and maple. These boards are cut to different lengths and widths, and can either be installed as is or be painted or stained to match the decor of a room.
In addition to trim boards, trim materials also come in a variety of other shapes and styles, such as jambs, casing, cap and base, paneling, and rosettes. All of which can be used to create a unique, decorative touch in any room.
What are the trim boards on a house called?
The trim boards on a house are sometimes referred to as fascia boards or trim boards depending on the type of trim installed. The boards provide a finished edge to a roof line or window and can make a house look much more finished and attractive.
They can be made out of a variety of materials such as vinyl, wood, aluminum or composite. Vinyl trim is the most cost effective and easy to install option, whereas wood trim is a much more divine look and much more expensive.
Aluminum and composite are more durable options that can stand up to more wear and tear yet still maintain a finished look. Depending on the style of the home and the desired aesthetic, trim boards can be used to create a custom look to the house.
The trim boards also help to keep water away from the more vulnerable parts of the house, such as windows, doors, and roofing. They can also act as a form of insulation and protection from the elements, depending on the material used.
