Watch this video to find out how certain synthetic building products for your home can perform better and cost less than natural materials, including:

• Polymer Roofing: Faux cedar shake and slate roofing, like those made by DaVinci Roofscapes, are wind, fire, and impact resistant.
• Siding: Vinyl siding, such as Exterior Portfolio from Crane, and fiber cement siding, like HardiePlank, can last for many years.
• Fencing: Vinyl fencing, such as that made by ActiveYards, requires little maintenance.
• Decking: Composite decking and railings, like those from Fiberon, are a durable, low-maintenance alternative to wood.
• Doors: Entry doors made from fiberglass, such as those from JELD-WEN Windows & Doors, require little maintenance compared to wood doors.
• Moldings: Exterior moldings and spindles, like those from Fypon, can be made from several materials, including urethane and PVC plastic.
• Translucent Blocks: To let light in a room, consider using acrylic blocks, such as those from US Block Windows, which are lighter, provide more insulation, and resist breaking better than glass.
• Countertops: There are a number of synthetic countertop materials available, including engineered quartz from DeNova—as well as solid surface materials and realistic looking plastic laminate products, such as Formica 180fx.
• Marbleizing: This faux painting technique uses sponges to give any surface the look of natural stone.
• Graining: A faux painting method that can give inexpensive wood and other surface the look of everything from mahogany to rosewood to antique heart pine.

Read episode article to find out more.

Further Information

• How to Choose a Roof for Your Home (article)
• Low Maintenance Vinyl and Fiber Cement Siding (video)
• Fiber Cement Siding: A Durable Alternative for Your Home (article)
• Composite and Wood Decking for Your Home (video)
• Upgrading and Replacing Doors on Your Home (article)
• Choosing Molding for Your Home (article)
• How to Choose a Countertop for Your Kitchen (video)

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