Where can I buy MiraTEC trim?
Visit the dealer locator 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 30-year limited warranty.

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).

Does MiraTEC trim provide green building benefits?
Yes, MiraTEC trim is a green product made with sustainable materials. No old growth wood is used in the manufacture of MiraTEC trim. It is made from leftover wood that is of no commercial timber value and is the byproduct of other operations. MiraTEC trim has no added urea formaldehyde. This is certified by Scientific Certifications Systems, certificate number SCS-MC-01802. Due to its physical composition, MiraTEC trim is not subject to the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) Airborne Toxic Control Measure 93120 (ATCM). MiraTEC trim also contributes to industry programs such as LEED® 2009 for Commercial Interiors, LEED 2009 for New Construction and Major Renovations, LEED for Homes and NAHB - National Green Building Standard™.

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. 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 30-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 in a wide variety of colors to match or complement your siding. 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 both 5/4 and 4/4 thicknesses (nominal 1" and 3/4").

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?
Use fasteners which are equal in performance (such as nail withdrawal, bending strength and corrosion resistance) to 6d or 8d nails with a 3/16" head diameter and long enough to penetrate 1 1/4" into structural wood studs or studs and sheathing material. Finish nails are allowed for runs of 8 feet or less, such as around windows, doors, and other smaller details. The finish nail should be equal in performance to 6d or 8d finish nails and long enough to penetrate 1 1/4" into structural wood and sheathing material. In all cases, use nails with corrosive resistance equivalent to hotdipped galvanized nails. Use a nail that is appropriate to the style of construction. Do not use staples, braids, or t-nails. Do not use finish nails on runs over 8 feet. Use of these fasteners will void the warranty. 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.

What's the best way to finish nail heads on the smooth side?
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.

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 120
• Smoke developed 90

Do you have other questions?
Send an email to info@cmicompany.com or call 1-800-255-0785.