Sorry for the slightly off-topic post, but I'm building a shed and was
hoping for advice on alternative trim. My last shed had pine 1x's,
which really started to cup after 6 years in the Colorado sun (despite
painting). I'm looking for something a little more stable - perhaps MDF
or OSB? Anyone have experience or recommendations?
Thanks,
Tony
[email protected] wrote:
> Sorry for the slightly off-topic post, but I'm building a shed and was
> hoping for advice on alternative trim. My last shed had pine 1x's,
> which really started to cup after 6 years in the Colorado sun (despite
> painting). I'm looking for something a little more stable - perhaps MDF
> or OSB? Anyone have experience or recommendations?
Look into an expanded PVC trim, such as Azek. It won't rot or warp and
it works like wood. The only caveat is that you're not supposed to
paint it a darker color as there can be problems with heat buildup if
it's too dark. If you use stainless nails, you don't even have to
paint it (though I would).
R
On 23 Jun 2006 09:26:33 -0700, [email protected] wrote:
>
>Thanks for the quick reply. About how much does this stuff cost?
>
>Thanks,
>
>T.
Here are the decking plank prices:
http://homedepot.shoplocal.com/homedepot/Default.aspx?action=browsepagedetail&storeid=2398779&rapid=284054&pagenumber=9&listingid=-2094828059
and the Behr's solid color wood stain is 26$ a gallon. I
ripped the 6" wide planks in half and used a 1/2" radius
round over router bit on the outer edge with the corners
mitered and the pieces attached to the house with stainless
steel screws in predrilled and countersunk holes. This
decking has an imitation wood grain on one side and straight
grooves lengthwise. I used the grooved side out which
resulted in a uniform textured effect that went well with
the rounded edges for a contemporary look. I used the same
approach to produce custom trim for the storm doors and as a
backing for the brass street address numbers. Now all the
trim matches and it still looks as good as when it was
applied. Good luck on your project, as a Colorado native I
am acutely aware of the damage the sun can do at that
altitude, as I recall the average number of sunny days was
nearly 300 per year. regards, Joe.
On 23 Jun 2006 08:27:04 -0700, [email protected] wrote:
>Sorry for the slightly off-topic post, but I'm building a shed and was
>hoping for advice on alternative trim. My last shed had pine 1x's,
>which really started to cup after 6 years in the Colorado sun (despite
>painting). I'm looking for something a little more stable - perhaps MDF
>or OSB? Anyone have experience or recommendations?
>
>Thanks,
>
>Tony
Tony, I have dealt with the same issue and tried a number
of different ideas to resolve the instability of trim
exposed to harsh weather.
The best material I have found thus far is synthetic decking
planks, like 'TREX' or similar brands. I have not been able
to discern any significant differences between brands in
this application so I go with the house stocked brand at HD
usually. However having said that, it is imperative to pay
attention to the differences of the new material that
affects it's application. Specifically, I drill pilot holes
to eliminate potential splitting during installation. Next,
I usually pre finish all sides with a high quality exterior
house paint or use a high end solid color deck stain like
Behr's best. The decking cuts, mills and finishes great
like mdf, but seems to survive the elements better over
time, IMHO.
Using this method has resulted in my not having to ever deal
with any of the trim due to weather damage. Don't forget to
document your experiences, and even more importantly the new
projects you will now be able to undertake with the 'trim
maintenance' tasks eliminated. Good luck, hope this helps
your situation. regards, Joe.
"RicodJour" <[email protected]> writes:
> Look into an expanded PVC trim, such as Azek.
Warning - PVC trim shrinks *lengthwise* in cold weather. Cut them a
little long and snap them in place. Or install in mid-winter ;-)