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How-to Workshop
Combining Urethane and PVC - The Best of Both Worlds
For residential and commercial projects requiring the lowest possible maintenance, experts at Fypon recommend using both urethane and cellular PVC.
“Both PVC and urethane resist rot, decay, moisture and insects, making these ideal exterior products for entryway trim, column surrounds, louvers and porch systems," according to Greg Wolf of Fypon. “Urethane products are primarily molded decorative pieces while PVC products are sold in sheets and boards. The PVC pieces can be fabricated into everything from soffitry to porch ceilings."
In Florida, contractor Rob Barnes made a decision to incorporate both urethane and cellular PVC products on his new home. Barnes used PVC boards as the corners, window trim and frieze of the home and wrapped beams and columns with PVC sheets. Beaded boards of PVC were used for porch ceilings in both the front and back of the house while urethane window crossheads, louvers, trim and pilasters were installed to add style to the house.
“Using Fypon urethane and PVC products together on an exterior is a perfect marriage for a building professional or homeowner," says Barnes. “Both products stand up to all types of weather, insects, rot and decay. Fabricating the PVC was simple. I found the consistency was terrific and easy to cut and shape. Wrapping the exterior columns with the PVC sheets was just as easy as installing the urethane window crossheads."
With a density similar to hickory and the working characteristics of white pine, Fypon PVC requires no special tooling. “I can’t imagine an exterior trim package that’s easier to work with or has more long-term benefits," says Barnes. “Even with the high humidity we experience in Florida, I know these products will never be affected by moisture, rot or insects."
In Parkersburg, West Virginia, where historic restoration and not humidity is the challenge, urethane and cellular PVC products were used to help renovate the 1889 Blennerhassett Hotel and secure its spot on the National Register of Historic Places. “We needed products that could replicate the ornamentation of the late 1800’s while giving us the low-maintenance ease of the 21st century," says Cecil Childress, general manager of the Blennerhassett Hotel. “Fypon products were the ideal solution. We used crown mouldings in our meeting and guest rooms to give them the same regal feeling the hotel had when it was constructed. Decorative millwork, mouldings and balustrade systems from Fypon all connect the hotel with its past and helped us create an accurate restoration."
Throughout the Blennerhassett Hotel guests find Fypon products in unpredictable places. Seashell wall niches faux finished with lighting fixtures adorn many hallways. PVC sheets are fabricated and wrapped around entryway pilasters. Decorative crossheads sit atop windows. And, to create a secluded patio courtyard, a regal-looking Fypon balustrade system incorporated into a brick walled setting encloses fountains, lit landscaping and seating areas.
“Fypon products have made a positive difference in the successful restoration of our hotel both inside and out," says Childress. “The contractors tell me that the exacting details in the polyurethane pieces and the fabrication ease of the PVC sheets made it possible for them to use these modern-day products to bring our hotel back into the 19th century."
