Installation Guide

PAINT SELECTION:
For best results, use satin/semi-gloss or full-gloss exterior acrylic latex or a satin/semi-gloss. Semi-gloss or full-gloss
finishes tend to perform better than flat finishes. Note: Some systems may require the application of a designated
primer and topcoat combination.
DO NOT USE THE FOLLOWING COATINGS:
Shake and shingle paints Vinyl acrylic paint *
Flat oil paint Vinyl acetate paint
Vinyl acetate / co-polymer paint Clear Coatings
Transparent or opaque stains
* Note: Although vinyl acrylic exterior paint may be readily available, it must NOT be used on RealTrim Plus™ Fascia
and Trim. Vinyl acrylic paint tends to weather more quickly than full acrylic paints and may discolor.
PAINT APPLICATION:
Always follow the paint manufacturer’s recommendations for the application and maintenance of field-applied paints.
1. Prime and paint all field-cut edges of exterior trim using high quality exterior oil or acrylic latex primer formulated for
wood, or a primer recommended by the paint manufacturer.
2. 1” RealTrim Plus boards typically have a wax coating on the end of the board; Woodtone recommends cutting the
ends and re-priming to ensure the paint adheres to the ends effectively. The wax is designed for temporary protection.
3. All exposed surfaces including the bottom edge must be well coated. Because of its location, the bottom edge is
often not adequately protected with paint. Inadequate coverage of the bottom edge may result in paint failure or
premature degradation of the Fascia and Trim.
4. RealTrim Plus™ Fascia and Trim must be finished with two coats of paint within 60 days after installation. If, due to
unforeseen circumstances, the material is not painted within 60 days, re-prime the trim using an exterior primer that is
specifically recommended for use on wood-based products and is compatible with the topcoat to be used. Use the
same primer for repair of any damage to the original factory applied primer.
5. A total field-applied dry film thickness of at least 2-1/2 mils is required on RealTrim Plus™ Fascia and Trim for the
duration of the warranty period of 15 years. This requires the application of two or more unthinned coats of paint at the
spread rate recommended by the paint manufacturer.
6. Most coatings can be applied with brush, roller, pad or spray. The brush application method tends to apply the most
paint per coat; spraying tends to apply the least per coat.
7. The Fascia and Trim surface temperature must not be less than 50 degrees for 24 hours following the application of
water-based paint. Paint performance problems can be avoided by not applying paint in the evenings of cool spring and
fall days when heavy dew can form before the surface of the paint has thoroughly dried. Allow at least 2 hours for the
paint to dry before sunset. Likewise, painting in the morning should not begin until after the dew has had time to
evaporate. Water absorption problems and major finish failure can occur with some latex paints when applied under
these conditions.
Woodtone is not responsible for the performance of field applied finishes. Finish performance is dependent upon
coating quality and application methods which are factors controlled by the finish manufacturer and the applicator.