Boral TruExterior Trim is an engineered trim product designed for use in exterior construction projects. Marketed for its durability, dimensional stability, and workability, it represents a significant advancement in the field of exterior cladding materials. This article provides a detailed overview of the product, including its composition, installation techniques, and practical insights from real-world applications, all derived from the provided source material.
Introduction
Boral TruExterior Trim is a composite product that blends bio-based polymers with coal-combustion byproducts. This unique formulation, referred to as "poly-ash technology," was developed by Boral engineers in the late 2000s. The material is marketed as a sustainable alternative to traditional wood and fiber cement trim, offering improved resistance to moisture, dimensional stability, and ease of installation. The trim is available in a variety of standard sizes and is pre-primed, ready to be painted any color to match a project’s design requirements.
Installation of TruExterior Trim can be accomplished using standard woodworking tools and methods, and no edge sealing is required for cut ends. The product is composed of over 70% recycled material, aligning with sustainability goals for net-zero and eco-friendly construction projects. While it offers many advantages, users should also be aware of its limitations, such as weight, flexibility, and dust generation during cutting.
Product Composition and Sustainability
Boral TruExterior Trim is composed of a proprietary blend of bio-based polymers and coal-combustion byproducts. The exact composition is not disclosed in the source material, but the inclusion of coal-combustion byproducts suggests the material is a byproduct of coal-burning power plants, which are repurposed to create the trim. This composition contributes to the product’s sustainability profile, as it utilizes materials that would otherwise be discarded.
The product is marketed as a sustainable alternative to traditional wood and fiber cement trim. It is composed of over 70% recycled material, which is a significant factor for construction projects aiming for environmental sustainability. This aligns with the growing trend in the construction industry toward using materials that minimize environmental impact while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Installation Tools and Techniques
TruExterior Trim can be installed using standard woodworking tools and techniques. This includes the use of power saws, hand tools, and fasteners commonly used in wood trim applications. The source material indicates that no special tooling is required to work with the product. However, it does mention a key consideration: the dust generated during cutting is extremely fine and can be damaging to tools if not properly managed.
To mitigate this, installers are advised to use an air compressor to regularly blow out tools such as chop saws and table saws. This helps prevent fine dust from accumulating in the tool mechanisms, which could lead to wear or malfunction over time.
The trim can be cut, mitered, and routed using the same methods applied to traditional wood trim. No edge sealing is required for cut ends, which simplifies the installation process. The source material also notes that the product can be fastened using standard wood glue on joints and 15-gauge trim nails on miters, with successful results reported.
One installer noted that the trim can be challenging to handle due to its weight and flexibility. It is described as being heavy and fragile like fiber cement, yet floppy like PVC. This presents some difficulties when working at elevated levels, such as the second floor of a building, where installers often lean boards against the house and pull them in through windows. TruExterior Trim’s flexibility makes this approach impractical, requiring alternative handling methods.
Performance and Practical Experience
Installers report that TruExterior Trim performs well in terms of dimensional stability and durability. The source material indicates that in a recent framing project, runs of trim up to 40 feet in length were installed without experiencing expansion or contraction at the scarf joints between boards. This suggests that the product maintains its shape and dimensions under typical installation conditions, which is a significant advantage over traditional wood trim.
From an aesthetic perspective, the trim is described as looking better than fiber cement and being installed with the same tools and techniques used with wood. This makes it an attractive option for projects where a wood-like appearance is desired, but with the added benefits of a composite material.
However, the trim is not without its drawbacks. One installer noted that compared to wood, it can be difficult to handle due to its weight and flexibility. It is described as being fragile like fiber cement but floppy like PVC, which presents some handling challenges. This is particularly relevant in multi-story construction, where the trim must be maneuvered into position with care.
Product Sizes and Dimensions
TruExterior Trim is available in a wide range of standard sizes, making it versatile for a variety of construction applications. The source material provides a detailed breakdown of the nominal and actual dimensions for different trim sizes. These include:
- 5/8 x 4: 5/8" x 3-1/2"
- 1 x 4: 3/4" x 3-1/2"
- 5/4 x 4: 1" x 3-1/2"
2 x 4: 1-1/2" x 3-1/2"
1 x 5: 3/4" x 4-1/2"
5/4 x 5: 1" x 4-1/2"
5/8 x 6: 5/8" x 5-1/2"
- 1 x 6: 3/4" x 5-1/2"
- 5/4 x 6: 1" x 5-1/2"
2 x 6: 1-1/2" x 5-1/2"
5/8 x 8: 5/8" x 7-1/4"
- 1 x 8: 3/4" x 7-1/4"
- 5/4 x 8: 1" x 7-1/4"
2 x 8: 1-1/2" x 7-1/4"
5/8 x 10: 5/8" x 9-1/4"
- 1 x 10: 3/4" x 9-1/4"
- 5/4 x 10: 1" x 9-1/4"
2 x 10: 1-1/2" x 9-1/4"
5/8 x 12: 5/8" x 11-1/4"
- 1 x 12: 3/4" x 11-1/4"
- 5/4 x 12: 1" x 11-1/4"
- 2 x 12: 1-1/2" x 11-1/4"
These dimensions allow for flexibility in design and application, accommodating both standard and custom trim requirements. The availability of 16-foot lengths further enhances its utility, particularly for larger projects where longer runs are desired.
Practical Considerations and Best Practices
When working with Boral TruExterior Trim, there are several practical considerations and best practices to keep in mind. First, the fine dust generated during cutting can be harmful to tools if not properly managed. Installers should use an air compressor to regularly clean tools such as chop saws and table saws to prevent dust buildup.
Handling the trim can also be challenging due to its weight and flexibility. It is described as being heavy and fragile like fiber cement, yet floppy like PVC. This requires careful maneuvering, especially in multi-story construction where the trim must be transported and positioned with care.
Another consideration is the need for proper fastening. The source material indicates that the trim can be fastened using standard wood glue on joints and 15-gauge trim nails on miters. This suggests that traditional fastening methods are effective, which is an advantage for installers familiar with wood trim techniques.
In terms of finishing, the trim is pre-primed and ready to be painted any color. This eliminates the need for additional priming, simplifying the finishing process. Installers should ensure that the surface is clean and dry before applying paint to achieve the best results.
Comparative Analysis with Traditional Materials
Boral TruExterior Trim is positioned as a competitive alternative to traditional materials such as wood, fiber cement, and PVC. Compared to wood, it offers improved dimensional stability and moisture resistance, reducing the risk of warping and cracking. It also eliminates the need for regular maintenance such as sealing and staining, which is a significant advantage for long-term durability.
Compared to fiber cement, the trim is described as being easier to work with and offering a better appearance. While fiber cement is known for its durability, it can be difficult to cut and shape, requiring specialized tools and techniques. TruExterior Trim, on the other hand, can be installed using standard woodworking tools, making it more accessible for a wider range of installers.
Compared to PVC, the trim is more dimensionally stable and offers a more natural wood-like appearance. PVC can be prone to expansion and contraction, which can lead to gaps and misalignment over time. TruExterior Trim, with its proprietary blend of polymers and coal-combustion byproducts, is designed to maintain its shape and dimensions under various environmental conditions.
Conclusion
Boral TruExterior Trim is a composite trim product that offers a compelling combination of durability, dimensional stability, and workability. It is designed for use in exterior construction projects and is marketed as a sustainable alternative to traditional materials such as wood, fiber cement, and PVC. The product is composed of over 70% recycled material, making it an attractive option for eco-friendly construction projects.
Installation of TruExterior Trim can be accomplished using standard woodworking tools and techniques, and no edge sealing is required for cut ends. The trim is pre-primed and ready to be painted any color, simplifying the finishing process. However, installers should be aware of the challenges associated with handling the product due to its weight and flexibility.
Overall, Boral TruExterior Trim represents a significant advancement in the field of exterior cladding materials. While it is not without its limitations, it offers a viable alternative for construction projects seeking a durable, dimensionally stable, and sustainable trim solution.