Example LRV (Light Reflective Value) Scale

“L Value” is a measure of lightness.  LRV values are available for all color ranges. The sample graphic above is representative and does not show all colors.  Check with your paint manufacturer for the LRV value.

ENVIROGUARD™ cellular PVC windows, wood windows, and all millwork must be painted on the exterior and interior within a period of 30 days after installation for the warranty to be honored. Windows and millwork should be painted with standard oil base or latex paint using industry standard painting techniques after being cleaned (see below).

ENVIROGUARD products are made of a cellular PVC extrusion—a vinyl-based composite.  PMI recommends light paint colors on the LRV value scale of 57 or higher (black = 0 and white = 100).  Dark paint colors (LRV value of ≤ 56) can generate high localized temperatures above 145 F degrees in the product. As such, the product may be subject to thermal expansion and contraction. Extreme dark colors may accelerate this situation.  If thermal expansion occurs, paint adhesion loss, blistering, and peeling could result, as can warping/distortion of the sash and frame components.  PMI is not liable for the results of paint used on our products.

For windows made of ENVIROGUARD™ PVC components (including sash, jamb, brickmold, SDL (simulated divided light), and sill), if the PVC is painted with dark colors as defined above, the product warranty will be forfeited. The Series 200AW unit has all wood components that can be painted a dark color without forfeiting the warranty. However, if the Series 200AW has an ENVIROGUARD SDL grille applied to it, the grille cannot be painted a dark color without voiding the warranty. Note, Wood SDL grilles are not covered under warranty due to rot/failure concerns.

If, despite the above warning, you should choose to paint ENVIROGUARD components a dark color as defined above, a paint specifically designed for these applications MUST be used. Whichever paint manufacturer is chosen must be contacted to verify the paint’s reflective properties and suitability with regard to painting cellular PVC.

Detailed Finishing Instructions

• All joints and nail holes should be caulked with quality paintable caulk.
• Darker colors with a value of L-56 or below should be avoided.
• Two full coats of quality oil or water-based paint should be used.
• Do not paint weather-strip.
• 1/16” to 1/8” paint overlap must be left from sash to glass to avoid water infiltration.

Beginning April 22, 2010, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. EPA requires that firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools be certified by EPA and that they use certified renovators who are trained by EPA-approved training providers to follow lead-safe work practices. For more information please visit http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm.