Choosing the Right Trim for Your Outdoor Project

When it comes to outdoor projects, selecting the right trim is essential for functionality and aesthetics. When working around doors and windows, it’s crucial to consider factors like durability, material options, colors, and reputable brands.

Durability and Warranty Considerations

The first question to address when selecting outdoor trim is the desired level of durability. Consider whether you need a trim that can withstand the test of time or one that comes with a warranty for added peace of mind. This will help narrow down your options and ensure a long-lasting solution for your project.

Trim for Doors

Regarding the door trim, brick mould is the most common. Brick Mould is a decorative moulding typically used flush against a wall, door, or window to create surrounds. It can be used as a single moulding profile or combined with other profile styles to transform window and door aesthetics dramatically. The two most common types are composite and wood. Wood brick moulding is the most beautiful and classic option. It’s durable, easy to install, and can be cost-effective, too. This classic material is always a hit and can be painted to fit any aesthetic. Solid pine and finger joint pine are the most popular brick molding wood species.

Composite brick moulding is made from PVC and offers affordability and strength. Cardinal Home Center offers Versatex. With a moulding line featuring over 30 of the most popular profiles, VERSATEX low-gloss matte-finished moldings are a great way to add detailed beauty to any job.

“Is composite more expensive than wood?” Typically, the answer is YES. However, composite is more durable and has a much more extended warranty.”

After selecting the brick moulding, you can choose a flat moulding to install on the exterior side. This additional layer adds depth and enhances the overall appearance of the door trim.

Trim for Windows

For window trim, it’s advisable to opt for flat materials such as cedar or composites such as Boral TruExterior, or MiraTEC. These materials provide a solid foundation and are suitable for outdoor use. While some homeowners choose vinyl to match their windows and siding, it’s less common than other options.

Color Options

When it comes to door trim, the standard color option is white. However, almost all trim types can be painted to match your desired color scheme. Keep in mind that PVC trim is not recommended for painting.

In the case of window trim, you have more flexibility. Many materials can be painted to suit your preferences. This allows you to achieve a cohesive look that complements the overall design of your home.

Brands

Considerations of brand reputation and performance are vital when selecting outdoor trim. Here are a few notable composite brands we offer at Cardinal Home Center:

Boral Exterior Trim is a blend of bio-based polymers and coal-combustion byproducts. It resembles wood and has woodgrain and smooth faces offering phenomenal performance and workability without the limitations plaguing other exterior trim products.

• Advantages: Resistant to rot, comes with a 20-year limited warranty, no need to prime ends, easy to install and work with.
• Disadvantages: Can be brittle when cutting, resulting in dust.

MiraTEC Trim: Made from the patented TEC™ process, MiraTEC Treated Exterior Composite trim combines the eye-catching beauty of authentic woodgrain with the long-lasting performance of an engineered product. Because it is not hardboard, MiraTEC trim will not delaminate, is moisture, rot, and termite resistant, and is backed by a 50-year limited warranty.

• Advantages: Primed composite and solid, reversible with a smooth side and woodgrain side, paintable, comes with a 50-year warranty.
• Disadvantages: Not suitable for constantly damp environments, may absorb moisture over time (unlike Boral), not recommended for ground contact.

Versatex PVC Trim provides the beauty and fine craftsmanship you admire in a premium wood trim while providing durability and protection.

• Advantages: Comes with a 50-year warranty.
• Disadvantages: Relatively higher price point than other brands, but offers superior quality and longevity.

Choosing the trim for your outdoor project involves considering durability, materials, color options, and reputable brands. There are a lot of choices to consider. At Cardinal Home Center, our knowledgeable team is here to answer all your questions to ensure that your trim selection enhances the appearance, functionality, and longevity of your doors and windows. Stop by and ask your Cardinal team for assistance! We want to thank Cardinal associate Annita for her expertise in writing this article.