FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy MiraTEC trim?
Visit the Where to Buy section for information on where to purchase MiraTEC trim.
How is MiraTEC trim made?
MiraTEC trim is a treated wood composite trim made using the TEC™ sealed-press manufacturing process. This process was designed specifically for MiraTEC trim. In this patented process, wood fiber, phenolic resins, zinc borate (a wood preservative), a water repellent and other ingredients are combined and formed into a thick fiber mat. This mat is loaded into a sealed cavity. Steam is introduced during the pressing process to facilitate uniform heat transfer throughout the mat, resulting in a board that has exceptionally consistent physical properties. Critical factors can be set during this process to produce a firm surface for superb paint holdout and performance. The wood preservative and phenolic resin provide moisture, rot and termite resistance, and further enhance long-term performance. MiraTEC trim is also termite resistant.
Due to this unique technology, MiraTEC trim is backed by a 50-year limited warranty.
Sealed-Press in Towanda, PA
What is zinc borate?
Zinc borate is a wood preservative that provides protection from wood destroying organisms for wood composite materials. It is added during the manufacturing process to control the growth of fungi that can lead to rot decay. Zinc borate is a broad-spectrum fungicide with no demonstrated adverse environmental effects (source: EPA Pesticide Fact Sheet).
Is MiraTEC trim a green product?
Yes, MiraTEC trim is a green product made from sustainable materials. No old growth wood is used in the manufacture of MiraTEC trim. It is made from wood that is of no commercial timber value and is the byproduct of other operations. This leftover wood is also detrimental to the overall vitality of the forest. MiraTEC trim has no added urea formaldehyde. This is certified by Scientific Certifications Systems, certificate number SCS-MC-01802. MiraTEC trim is CARB compliant. It is acknowledged by the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Airborne Toxic Control Measure (ATCM) 93120 to utilize exempt status ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) resins. MiraTEC trim also contributes to industry programs such as LEED and the National Green Building Standard. For more information, click here.
How is MiraTEC trim different from wood or wood-based trim products?
Unlike MiraTEC trim, wood trim has knots and imperfections, does not generate 100% yields, is not available with a warranty and is typically not sold with a factory-applied primer. Most wood composite trim products available on the market today are composed of hardboard. Most of these products are made from two pieces of hardboard siding laminated together. Unlike MiraTEC trim, these products are prone to delamination and are not as durable as MiraTEC trim. Most of these products have less warranty protection than MiraTEC trim.
How long is the warranty on MiraTEC trim?
MiraTEC trim has a 50-year limited warranty. For a copy of the warranty, click here.
Is MiraTEC trim available with a wood grain surface?
MiraTEC trim is reversible. It has a clear cedar wood grain texture on one side, smooth on the other.
Is MiraTEC trim available with a smooth surface?
MiraTEC trim is reversible. One side has a smooth surface and the other has a clear cedar wood grain texture.
Is MiraTEC trim available prefinished?
In many markets, MiraTEC trim is available prefinished. Contact your local MiraTEC trim dealer or distributor for more information.
What lengths and widths is MiraTEC trim available in?
MiraTEC trim is available in 16′ lengths and in widths of 3″, 4″, 5″, 6″, 8″, 10″, 12″ and 16″ and 2″ MiraTEC batten. See all available sizes.
What thicknesses is MiraTEC trim available in?
MiraTEC trim is available in 5/8″, 4/4 (3/4″ actual), 5/4 (1″ actual), and 1-1/4" actual thicknesses.
What’s the best way to prime and paint MiraTEC trim?
MiraTEC trim is factory primed and does not need to be re-primed. However, if the primer has been removed or badly scuffed or scraped during transit or handling, you can re-prime it. For best results, use a high quality oil-based primer designed for use on wood. Paint MiraTEC trim with two coats of high-quality exterior oil or latex paint designed for use on wood. If you have to re-prime it, make sure the topcoat is compatible with the primer. Use a brush for best results. See Application Instructions for best detail. Top quality paints will give you the best performance and long term lower cost.
Do I need to prime and paint cut edges?
This is necessary only if the cut edges will be exposed to the weather. Prime and paint as noted above. All joints should be treated per our Application Instructions.
What type of nails should be used? Can MiraTEC trim be applied with screws?
Always use fasteners appropriate to the style of construction where the trim is installed. Fasteners must be equal or better in performance (such as nail withdrawal, bending strength and corrosion resistance) to 6d or 8d 15 gauge finish nails or headed nails, long enough to penetrate 1 1/4˝ into structural wood studs or studs and structural sheathing material. Use nails with corrosive resistance equivalent to hotdipped galvanized nails. For installations near oceans, large bodies of water or in high humidity climates, CMI recommends using stainless steel fasteners on MiraTEC trim. For these installations, do not use electro-galvanized fasteners, due to poor long term rust resistance. Power or pneumatic nailing systems may be used. Visit the Installation section of this website for information on air pressure settings on a variety of pneumatic nailers. Tapered or bugle head fasteners are permitted when the heads are properly sealed from moisture. See Application Instructions for fastening details.
How do you treat nail dents?
Nail heads, or any other dents, can be filled with exterior grade spackling putty specifically designed for filling nail holes. Allow putty to dry, sand smooth with 100 grit sandpaper and spot prime before painting. Over time, spackling putty may need to be replaced or touched up. For the best aesthetic appearance when using the smooth side of MiraTEC trim, additional work is required. The nails should be set flush or slightly countersunk (not to exceed 1/8˝). Then apply the spackling putty as outlined above. Reapply the putty as needed for desired appearance.
What’s the best way to finish nail heads on the smooth side?
The nails should be set flush or slightly countersunk (not to exceed 1/8˝ ). Then apply an exterior grade spackling putty specifically designed for filling nail holes. Allow putty to dry, sand smooth with 100 grit sandpaper and spot prime before painting. Over time, spackling putty
may need to be replaced or touched up.
Can MiraTEC trim be mitered?
MiraTEC trim can be mitered for joints or column posts. Nails should be positioned no closer than 1/2″ from the edge. If desired, MiraTEC trim can also be glued. CMI recommends a polyurethane-based adhesive, or quality exterior grade carpenter’s glue.
Can I buy MiraTEC trim in fluted or other designs?
MiraTEC trim is not sold fluted or in other designs. However, it can be routed and machined into many different architectural designs. MiraTEC trim can be routed, cut or shaped like wood. For inspirational ideas, view MiraTEC trim applications on this website, or contact your local millwork or building materials dealer.
Does MiraTEC trim have a fire rating?
MiraTEC trim has a Class C fire rating:
• Flame spread 125
• Smoke developed 110
Do you have other questions?
Send an email to miratec@jeld-wen.com or call 1-800-255-0785.
