Performance Accessories Flexible Moldings Installation Guide
Product Descriptions
End Cap: Used to transition from hard surfaces to soft surfaces and for masonry (fireplaces), sliding doors, and other exterior door jambs.
T-Molding: Commonly used in doorways to join two hard surface floors in adjoining rooms. Recommended for transitions between laminate floors of similar heights.
Reducer: Used to transition between hard surface floors of different heights, with a minimum height difference of 1/4 inch (6.35 mm).
Shoe Molding: Similar to quarter rounds, used to conceal the expansion space between the wall and the hard surface flooring.
Installation Instructions
- Performance Accessories flexible moldings are designed for interior and exterior use. They are stable and do not absorb moisture. Using a paint, gel stain, and sealer is recommended for all applications.
- Conventional woodworking tools can be used. The material can be cut, sanded, and shaped with ease. Miter saws are effective for trimming. Exercise care when marking and cutting.
- Conditioning the moldings in a warm room (70°F to 75°F) for 12 hours will increase flexibility.
- Install moldings in a relaxed position. Use construction or panel adhesive or mastic-type glue on the back side, and secure with nails until adhesive bonds.
- DO NOT use staples.
- Space nails at least 6 inches apart.
- Avoid nailing closer than 3/8 inch from the edge of the molding.
- Prior to finishing, clean the molding with a cloth, soap and water, paint thinner, or a mild solvent to remove dirt or grease.
- Performance Accessories flexible moldings are paint grade and can be painted with latex or oil-based paint, or stained with a gel-type stain.
Surface Preparation:
- Sand with fine grit paper (150) before staining to ensure effective pigment absorption.
- Recommended stain types include wiping stains (gel stains are preferred for best coverage).
- Avoid spray or flood/dip stains.
Application Method:
- Apply stain, then immediately wipe off excess to leave a thin coat for quicker drying.
- Additional thin coats can be applied as needed for desired color intensity.
Drying Time:
- Gel stains offer optimal coverage but require longer drying times.
- Water-based or solvent-based wiping stains dry faster. If quick drying is needed, multiple applications may be necessary due to thinner pigment application compared to gel stains.
After Staining:
- Allow stain to cure thoroughly before applying a clear urethane topcoat.
Important Note
Conducting test samples before final application is strongly recommended to determine suitability and drying times for specific staining conditions. This is due to the less absorbent nature of the urethane-based flexible moldings.
