What Are the Best Materials for Exterior Trim in Wilmington’s Climate?
Wilmington has a unique coastal climate. During the summer, the weather becomes hot and humid, often resulting in thunderstorms. Winters tend to be mild, with the occasional cold front. What this means for your Wilmington home is that you must ensure the exterior trim can handle the temperature fluctuations. It must also be able to withstand constant moisture, intense UV rays, and salt air.
Fortunately, there are several options available for exterior trim materials that suit Wilmington homes.
Best Wilmington Weather-Ready Exterior Trim
When choosing an updated trim for your house, consider the following:
1. Fiber Cement Trim
This type of material can protect your home against moisture, rot, pests, and even fire. Fiber cement mimics the look of wood but stays much stronger in humid coastal conditions. Builders throughout North Carolina utilize fiber cement due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.
In Wilmington, fiber cement is at the top of the list of best exterior trim materials because of its stability and long lifespan.
2. Cellular PVC Trim
Another great option for exterior trim is cellular PVC. This material can help your home eliminate excess moisture and resist insects. It is also very durable, requiring almost no maintenance. Cellular PVC may expand slightly when exposed to high temperatures, but it is easy to work with and paint on.
Even though Wilmington can get very hot in the summer, this trim option is a smart and reliable choice.
3. Engineered Wood Trim
Engineered wood trim consists of wood fibers and resin. The result is an exterior trim material that resembles real wood but costs less. However, while this is a beautiful option, it requires regular maintenance. If you are willing to check your trim for damage and reapply sealant frequently, it may be a good choice. Engineered wood trim can swell if not properly sealed, so keeping up with maintenance is crucial.
4. Traditional Wood Trim
Wood trim is a popular choice for historic homes. It provides a classic, charming look that appeals to many. The problem with traditional wood is that it requires significant maintenance, especially when used in coastal areas. Salt and dampness can cause considerable wood damage if not regularly maintained.
5. PVC-Aluminum or Vinyl Capping
You can add aluminum or vinyl cladding over wood trim (window capping). Doing this helps protect against the weather while hiding aging paint. It also reduces the need for frequent repainting. This option works well for exterior window trim material, especially if you want to preserve heritage wood underneath.
Anderson Painting Can Help You Update Your Home’s Exterior Trim
As a Wilmington homeowner, you should choose exterior trim materials that protect against storms, heat, humidity, and salt.
Anderson Painting can help you select the best material for your home. Our expert team can also install your new trim and guide you on the best maintenance practices. We are very familiar with the Wilmington climate, so we can give you the right information on trim trends to suit your needs.
Contact us today for your free estimate!
