RISE 5/4 x 8 inch Trim solves the joint problem that standard 10-12 foot trim can’t touch. At 13 feet 4 inches, this recycled composite trim matches exactly 10 studs at 16-inch on-center framing — contractors cut field joints by a third compared to typical trim lengths. Made from 94% post-consumer and post-industrial synthetic fiber, it handles Montana’s freeze-thaw punishment without the rot, cracking, or warping that kills wood trim in 15-20 years.
This trim shines for contractors tired of callbacks from failed wood trim, builders meeting green certification requirements, and anyone working near grade where moisture destroys traditional materials. The ground contact rating alone changes what’s possible for foundation trim and transition details.
Material Composition and Environmental Impact
The 94% recycled content breaks down into polyester, nylon, and fiberglass sourced from post-consumer and post-industrial waste. Those fibers come from recycled carpets, vehicle liners, insulation, and wind turbine blades — industrial waste streams that typically end up in landfills.
| Specification | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Recycled Content | 94% | Manufacturer |
| Material Type | Polyester, nylon, fiberglass blend | Manufacturer |
| Warranty Duration | 30-Year Limited | Manufacturer |
| Ground Contact Rating | Yes (incidental soil or masonry contact) | Manufacturer |
The material resists rot, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and snow. Standard woodworking tools cut, nail, and screw it like wood, but without wood’s maintenance headaches. A dual water protection barrier on both sides keeps moisture from penetrating the substrate.
Installation Requirements and Specifications
Installation demands precision on fastening — minimum 1-1/4 inch penetration into framing using 8d trim nails or 7d trim screws. Simpson Strong-Tie 2 1/4” screws work perfectly for this application.
| Installation Spec | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Fastener Type | 8d trim nails or 7d trim screws |
| Minimum Penetration | 1-1/4 inch into framing |
| Fastener Spacing (studs) | 16 inches on-center |
| Fastener Spacing (sheathing) | 12 inches on-center |
| Fasteners for 8” width | 2 fasteners |
| Fasteners for >8” width | 3 fasteners |
Temperature matters for joint spacing. Leave a 3/16-inch gap at butt joints when installing below 60°F, or 1/8-inch gap at 60°F and above. This prevents buckling during Montana’s temperature swings.
Maintain 4 inches clearance above landscaping and 1/2 inch above finished surfaces like decks or roofs. Even with ground contact rating, proper clearances extend service life.
The 13’4” Length Advantage
At 160 inches total length, this trim optimizes for 16-inch on-center stud spacing. One piece covers exactly 10 studs. Compare that to standard 10-12 foot trim lengths — contractors eliminate 33% of field joints on a typical job.
Fewer joints mean:
- Less cutting and fitting time
- Reduced caulk and sealant costs
- Fewer failure points for moisture infiltration
- Cleaner sight lines on long runs
- Minimal waste from the 13-foot lengths
For Montana’s short building season, that efficiency translates directly to more jobs completed before freeze-up.
Performance Comparisons
Against traditional trim materials, RISE delivers specific advantages:
- More durable, rot-proof, and lower maintenance than wood trim
- Superior moisture resistance and ground-contact capability versus OSB trim
- Easier to cut/handle, less breakage, and longer lengths than fiber cement
- Provides a more natural wood aesthetic and feel compared to PVC trim
The material comes in textured (wood-grain) or smooth finishes, either factory-finished (ColorRISE) or primed for field painting. Despite being lightweight for easier handling, it provides high resistance to breakage and cracking compared to fiber cement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can RISE trim actually touch the ground? A: Yes, it’s rated for incidental ground contact with soil or masonry. Ground Contact versions include a protective water barrier. Still maintain 4-inch clearance above landscaping for best results.
Q: How does the 94% recycled content affect performance? A: The polyester, nylon, and fiberglass blend creates a composite that’s resistant to rot, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and snow. The synthetic fibers provide high resistance to impacts, denting, and weathering.
Q: What tools do I need for installation? A: Standard woodworking tools handle cutting, nailing, and screwing. No special blades or bits required. Use 8d trim nails or 7d trim screws for fastening.
Q: Is the 13’4” length hard to transport? A: The material is described as lightweight, making 13-foot pieces manageable. Most contractor trucks and trailers handle this length without issue.
Q: What about thermal expansion? A: RISE exhibits minimal expansion and contraction. Follow the temperature-based gap specifications: 3/16” below 60°F, 1/8” at 60°F and above.
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