Technical Specifications

FAQs
20. If I do paint, what type of paint should I use?
For light colors with a light reflective value (LRV) of 57 or higher, we recommend a high quality
100% acrylic latex paint developed for trim. Coating manufacturers can and will specify the LRV
for its color palette.
For dark colors, with a light reflective value (LRV) of 56 or lower, it is imperative that an approved
solar reflective coating is used. These paints are typically referred to as “vinyl safe” paints, or heat
reflective coatings for vinyl.
Failure to use the proper coatings specific to dark colors will result in heat distortion and buckling
to any cellular PVC
Based upon the questions that we receive, it is apparent that many people are not educated
regarding dark colors, heat buildup and Sherwin-Williams VinylSafe® technology.
Sherwin-Williams carries exterior paint product lines and Sherwin-Williams VinylSafe® Technology
is an option in this product line. Sherwin-Williams VinylSafe® is not a specific paint, but is a low
heat buildup color pigment package that can be used with several of their paint products.
This specialized coating is not automatically a feature in the paint products where VinylSafe® is
available.
VinylSafe® MUST BE SPECIFIED AS AN OPTION when having paint mixed, using Sherwin-Williams
Emerald®, Duration®, Resilience®, SuperPaint® latex paints, or SnapDry™ Door & Trim Paint.
Summary:
After significant experience and testing, using solar reflective coatings such as Sherwin-Williams
VinylSafe® will give the user best coating solution for dark colors. Our warranty does not cover
painted finishes or coating applied to the product by the original purchaser or any third party.
However, if the proper coatings are used, and the coating manufacturer’s instructions are
followed, users will be successful.
https://www.sherwin-williams.com/painting-contractors/color/find-and-explore-colors/
color-collections/vinylsafe-colors-forvinyl-siding
No priming is necessary, however the finish quality is greatly enhanced if you use a premium
100% acrylic latex paint for trim with a built in primer. In addition, a primer may be required
under the paint manufacturer’s warranty.
Always follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions. In preparation for painting, we recommend
product should be clean, dry and free of dirt, grease and or any other surface contaminants
before painting. Adhesion can be improved through light scuff sanding. Product should be
cleaned with a mild detergent or denatured alcohol and soft clean rag or bristle brush.
Before you start, it’s a good idea to fill all nails holes or blemishes that may occur during
installation. Although scuff sanding is not needed, light sanding of the surface, with fine
sandpaper can help remove blemishes prior to painting, but only if needed.
Failure to adhere to manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for application of painted surfaces
may void any paint manufacturer’s warranty.
Here are a few paint manufacturer recommendations:
Sherwin Williams PPG Benjamin Moore • Super Paint® Manor Hall® Moorlife® • Duration® •
Green Seal®
21. Can you stain PVC mouldings?
Yes, but staining PVC mouldings takes coating applications such as TruStain™ from AquaSurTech
OEM and or AWP SPQT Stainable Primer Wood Base Coat for Hard Surfaces. Follow the
manufacturer’s recommendations.
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