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KOMA also is focusing more attention on architects, who drive new design ideas. “We encourage that development by providing architectural classes and attending professional trade shows geared toward that market,” says Sinks. Kleer also is seeing more by restoration professions. “Historical restoration frequently drives use of our PVC trim boards,” says Michalski. “For architecture and home styles, there really are no limitations.”
Versatility Exploited
Fypon has found many customers using pieces for other than their original application, says Kyle Crompton, associate product manager. “We see websites where homeowners and designers have taken ceiling medallions and turned them into wall decorations. They use brackets and corbels in innovative ways in interiors. At the DIY level especially, people are being very creative in how they use mouldings.”
The types of pieces also are growing, Fypon’s Nesper says. “More homeowners are using columns to separate rooms in open-plan designs. We’re also seeing more use of shutters, beams, gable pediments, balustrades and other decorative pieces.”
The use of PVC encourages this expansion, as its low-maintenance attributes mean pieces can be placed higher and more extensively without worrying about repainting or replacing them. “PVC is a superior material for exterior applications,” says Kleer’s Michalski. “You don’t need to worry about moisture absorption, rot or insects. One of its great attributes is that it can be left unpainted and still perform against the elements.”
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This workability extends to wood pieces, says Al Delbridge, president of East Coast Mouldings. “There is heavy demand for preprimed pieces. They want it ready to be painted to achieve the final product.” In some markets, the same crew that primes the drywall also primes the mouldings, allowing unprimed pieces to be used. “But the quality of the preprimed surface will always be much better than what can be done in the field.”