Jim Blahut: Perennial Homes, Beach Haven, N.J

Custom Home, July-August, 2003

Jim Blahut prefers to create his own details for the Victorian homes he builds. "I had been looking for a trim product that is impervious to moisture and insects, and that can also be painted and worked with--i.e. cut, routed, sanded, etc.--similar to traditional wood trim," says Blahut.

For the past three years, he has been using Azek Trimboards for both exterior and interior trim details. The cellular PVC Trimhoards can be thermoformed for curved applications and can be fastened with nails, screws, staples, or glue. They resist water, splitting, rolling, or cupping, says the maker. "Due to the chemical properties of Azek, I can build up trim using several layers that are chemically welded together using PVC adhesives," Blahut says. "In the end, I have a homogeneous piece of trim complete with a wall flange that keeps out water."

Azek Trimboards are available in several widths and thicknesses, and in lengths up to 20 feet. * Azek. 866.549.6900. www.azek.com. Circle 175.