Synthetic materials, like cellular PVC, can be cut just like regular wood. Cellular PVC is great for replacing eave and trim boards, since the material won’t rot or deteriorate over time.
When attaching cellular PVC at temperatures below 40° F (5° Celsius), pre-drill holes for the nails. Use PVC cement to attach two pieces of cellular PVC to each other.
Cellular PVC and be caulked like regular wood. While it doesn’t require painting, cellular PVC can be painted with latex paint as long as the paint color isn’t darker than the color of the cellular PVC.
Watch this video to find out more.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
Danny Lipford: Synthetic materials, like cellular PVC, can be used to replace wood on the outside of homes as long as their purpose is not structural.
The first step is the removal of the old, damaged material with a pry bar. Be careful not to damage adjacent materials that are not being replaced.
The PVC material is available in the same nominal dimensions as regular lumber and can be cut and fastened using the same tools. The key difference is that wherever it is joined to itself, PVC cement or adhesive should be used. This prevents the joint from opening up when the material expands and contracts.
In temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, PVC should be pre-drilled before driving nails through it. Once it is installed, the edges can be caulked and the nail holes puttied just as with regular wood.
And, although it doesn’t require it, cellular PVC can be painted with latex paint as long as it is a lighter shade that will not absorb excessive heat.
Saw Episode 6/4/18 #23. Very good. Can I use PVC for door jams, facia and soffit in Florida? Your comments mention excessive heat and it is hot in Florida. Door jam is white. Facia is light sage green and soffit is light / butter yellow. Thank you
Hi, Michelle,
Danny says, “Yes, I think the cellular PVC trim in all the areas you mentioned would work just fine. The excessive heat should not be a problem in this case.
Good luck!”