The 94% recycled content changes the game for eco-conscious contractors. This isn’t greenwashing — it’s polyester, nylon, and fiberglass fiber salvaged from carpet waste, vehicle liners, and old wind turbine blades. At 13 feet 4 inches, RISE engineered this trim specifically for 16-inch on-center stud spacing, covering exactly 10 studs per board. That’s fewer joints, less waste, and faster installation than the standard 10 or 12-foot competitors.
The composite handles Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles without flinching. Rot-proof, insect-proof, and rated for incidental ground contact — a capability most trim can’t claim. For contractors tired of callbacks about rotting wood trim at the snow line, this solves the problem.
Material Performance in Montana Conditions
The fiber blend — polyester, nylon, and fiberglass — creates a substrate that resists moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and snow. RISE backs it with a 30-year limited warranty on the substrate. That’s confidence in long-term performance.
Ground contact rating sets RISE apart. The protective water barrier on all sides allows incidental soil or masonry contact. Wood trim rots at the ground line. Fiber cement wicks moisture and crumbles. RISE offers superior moisture resistance compared to OSB trim, which turns to mush after a few Montana springs.
| Specification | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Material Composition | 94% post-consumer and post-industrial synthetic fiber | Manufacturer |
| Recycled Content | 94% | Manufacturer |
| Length | 13 feet 4 inches (160 inches) | Manufacturer |
| Width | 8 inches | Manufacturer |
| Thickness | 5/4 inch (actual 1.25 inches) | Manufacturer |
| Ground Contact | Rated for incidental contact with soil or masonry | Manufacturer |
| Moisture Resistance | Resistant to rot, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and snow | Manufacturer |
Compared to fiber cement, RISE is easier to cut and handle, with less breakage. Anyone who’s watched a 12-foot fiber cement board snap during transport knows the value of durability during handling. The lightweight nature makes it easier for one person to handle, reducing labor costs on installation day.
Installation Requirements
RISE demands proper fastening — 8d trim nails or 7d trim screws, minimum 1-1/4 inch penetration into framing. No shortcuts. Fastener spacing at 16 inches on-center for studs, tightened to 12 inches for nailable sheathing.
Temperature matters for joint spacing. Below 60°F, leave a 3/16” gap at butt joints. Above 60°F, drop to 1/8”. Montana installers working in October need that wider gap — the trim will expand come July.
Keep it 4 inches above landscaping and 1/2 inch above finished surfaces like decks or roofs. For boards 8 inches or narrower, use 2 fasteners per stud. Wider boards need 3. Following these specs prevents buckling and ensures the warranty stays valid.
The 13’4” length optimization deserves emphasis. Matching exactly 10 studs at standard 16-inch spacing means contractors plan cuts more efficiently. Less measuring, fewer mistakes, minimal waste. On a whole-house trim job, that efficiency adds up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can RISE trim actually touch the ground? Yes, it’s rated for incidental ground contact with soil or masonry thanks to the protective water barrier on all sides. Still maintain 4 inches clearance above landscaping for proper drainage and ventilation.
What tools work for cutting RISE trim? Standard woodworking tools handle it fine — cutting, nailing, and screwing work like wood. No special blades or bits required, unlike some composites that destroy carbide teeth.
How does the 94% recycled content affect performance? The polyester, nylon, and fiberglass fiber blend creates superior resistance to rot, freeze-thaw cycles, and insects. Recycled doesn’t mean compromised — these engineered fibers outperform virgin materials in moisture resistance.
Is primed or pre-finished better for Montana? RISE comes in both primed and factory-finished ColorRISE options. Pre-finished saves labor and provides consistent color, but primed allows custom color matching for renovations.
Why is the 13’4” length such a big deal? It’s optimized for 16-inch on-center stud spacing, covering exactly 10 studs. Compared to standard 10-12 foot lengths from competitors, you get fewer joints and less waste per wall section.
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