NewTechWood Outdoor Surfaces for Commercial Entrances

Understanding NewTechWood Composite for Commercial Use

NewTechWood is a composite material, typically combining recycled plastics and wood fibers, engineered to provide a durable and low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood. For commercial entrances, this composition is particularly beneficial as it resists common issues like rot, decay, and insect damage, which can compromise the integrity and appearance of natural wood in exposed, high-traffic areas.

The composite nature means the material offers a consistent finish and color, which can be crucial for maintaining a professional appearance at a commercial entryway. Unlike natural wood, it does not require regular staining or sealing to protect against weathering. This translates to reduced ongoing maintenance, a significant factor for commercial property managers.

Selecting the Right Profile and Finish

NewTechWood offers various profiles and finishes, providing flexibility for different design aesthetics. For commercial entrances, consider profiles that complement the architectural style of the building. Options can range from sleek, modern planks to more traditional wood-grain textures. The choice of finish can also significantly impact the overall look, with a range of wood-look colors available to match or contrast with existing building materials.

When selecting, it's important to consider how the profile will interact with light and shadow, especially in an area like an entrance that may experience varied sun exposure throughout the day. Requesting physical samples is recommended to evaluate how different finishes appear in your project's specific lighting conditions and to assess the tactile quality suitable for a commercial setting. The availability of specific profiles and colors can vary, so confirming current stock with your Lumber Plus branch is a key step.

Durability and Maintenance in High-Traffic Zones

Commercial entrances are subject to constant foot traffic, potential impacts from carts or equipment, and exposure to varying weather conditions. NewTechWood Outdoor Surfaces are designed to withstand these challenges. Their composite structure provides a robust surface that resists splintering and cracking, contributing to a safer and more durable entryway.

Maintenance is a critical consideration for commercial applications. NewTechWood products are described as low-maintenance. Routine cleaning, typically with soap and water, can help remove dirt and grime, keeping the entrance looking presentable. This reduced maintenance burden can lead to long-term cost savings compared to materials requiring frequent refinishing or repair.

Integrating with Architectural Details and Access Points

A commercial entrance often includes complex architectural details, such as integrated lighting, signage, and various access points like doors and ramps. Planning how NewTechWood surfaces will interface with these elements is crucial. Careful detailing around door frames, thresholds, and any ADA-compliant ramps or railings ensures a clean, professional finish and proper functionality.

Consider the fastening methods and trim pieces available to create seamless transitions and finished edges. For areas around doors, ensuring proper clearance and drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation and maintain accessibility. The ability to cut and shape composite materials allows for customization to fit specific architectural contours, but precise measurements and a detailed cut plan are necessary.

Worked Example: Entryway Cladding for a Small Office Building

Consider a hypothetical project for a small office building entryway measuring 15 feet wide and 10 feet high, with a single 3-foot wide by 7-foot high main entrance door. The design calls for vertical NewTechWood cladding to create a modern, welcoming facade.

The total wall area to be clad is (15 ft * 10 ft) - (3 ft * 7 ft) = 150 sq ft - 21 sq ft = 129 sq ft. If the chosen NewTechWood cladding profile is a plank with an effective coverage of 5.5 inches (0.458 feet) wide and comes in 16-foot lengths, each plank covers 0.458 ft * 16 ft = 7.328 sq ft. To cover 129 sq ft, you would theoretically need 129 / 7.328 = 17.6 planks. However, considering cuts for the door opening and potential waste, it's prudent to round up and add a waste factor, perhaps 10-15%. For this example, we'll assume 20 planks are purchased to account for cuts and potential offcuts that may not be reusable due to the vertical orientation and the door opening. The planks would need to be cut to 10-foot lengths for the main wall sections and shorter lengths to frame the door opening.

Additionally, coordinating trim pieces for corners and around the door frame would be needed. This example highlights the importance of detailed measurements and a clear cut plan to minimize waste and ensure adequate material is ordered for both full sections and intricate detailing around openings. Always confirm the exact dimensions and available lengths of the NewTechWood profiles with your Lumber Plus representative.

Before you order

• Confirm the specific NewTechWood profile and color with current availability.
• Evaluate the required durability and traffic resistance for the commercial entrance.
• Plan for all architectural details, including doors, windows, and integrated elements.
• Consider the long-term maintenance requirements and cleaning protocols.
• Obtain physical samples to assess appearance in project lighting conditions.
• Detail fastening methods and trim components for a complete system.
• Calculate material quantities, including allowances for cuts and waste.
• Review local building codes and accessibility standards (e.g., ADA) for the entrance.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

Questions to help you decide

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