Buildipedia Staff

Buildipedia Staff

The Buildipedia research and writing staff consists of dozens of experienced professionals from many sectors of the industry, including architects, designers, contractors, and engineers.

Plastic Simulated Wood Trim

Tue, Jul 28, 2009

Several types and formulations of plastic simulated wood trim are available for exterior and interior applications. Plastic decorative trim can be high-density formed to simulate hand-carved, layered, profiled and shaped boards or ornamental pieces. Plastic materials are durable, long lasting, low-maintenance products that are waterproof and resistant to the growth of mold or mildew.

Plastic Railings

Tue, Jul 28, 2009

Fabricated from virgin raw and recycled materials, plastic railings are commonly found in applications where wood railings would typically be installed. They are usually used in conjunction with a balustrade system that consists of a newel, balusters and railings. Plastic railings are extruded materials that are field assembled with metal inserts and offer a low-maintenance option that doesn't stain or allow for the growth of mold or mildew.

Plastic Decking

Mon, Jul 27, 2009

Plastic decking or flooring is made from plastics such as High-density polyethylene (HDPE), Polystyrenne (PS) and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Used in place of traditional wood decking, plastic decking is installed over a treated lumber structure that is raised above grade, creating the floor surface of an outdoor living space. Typically adjoined to a structure, such as a home, decks with plastic decking can also be built as a boardwalk or atop of buildings as observation decks.

Structural Plastics

Mon, Jul 27, 2009

Structural plastics are a relatively new material, compared to the wood materials that have traditionally served a similar purpose. Plastic lumber, decking and assemblies are made from raw material or recycled plastic content. Types of plastics include High-density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polypropylene (PP), Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Polystyrene (PS) and Polylactic acid (PLA). Installed using conventional tools, structural plastics offer the advantage of not having to be painted, and they are also water proof and resistant to decay, mold and insects.

Wood Frames

Mon, Jul 27, 2009

Wood frames are an assembly of structural members that are secured to a rough opening to accommodate doors and windows. Wood frames contain all of an opening's elements, including ornamental infill such as glazed sashes. For both interior and exterior doors, the frame is recessed to accept hinges and a strike plate, where fasteners or deadbolts extend into the frame for security. Wood material is not a good conductor of heat, a fact which allows for energy efficiency in exterior doors and windows. Structural members may include a head jamb, sill, mull and side jambs, depending on the type of opening. Factory-built frames are available with prefinished, unfinished, or primed surfaces; factory-built window frames may also integrate aluminum or vinyl cladding.

Wood Stairs and Railings

Mon, Jul 27, 2009

Staircases provide a path of travel between floors in all types of construction. Wood stairs include several components that create horizontal steps. Components include the tread, riser, nosing, and stringer. Straight stairs are the most common, although stairs can also be round, angled, or turn back. Railings are utilized along the path of travel to ensure an individuals safety. A balustrade is the system of railings, balusters and newels that anchor a handrail at both the top and bottom of a staircase. Wood stairs and railings are often stained, but can also be painted.

Architectural Woodwork

Mon, Jul 27, 2009

Architectural woodwork includes shop-fabricated casework, paneling, stairs, railings, ornamental woodwork, trim, frames, screens, and shutters. Products may be solid wood, laminated, veneered, or simulated wood fabrication. Different from ready-made millwork, architectural woodwork is made to order from specifications or a custom design that requires a traditional or unique interior finish style.