Frequently Asked Questions
What is PVC and what are the advantages of using it?
A German inventor first patented polyvinyl chloride, more commonly known as PVC, in 1913. During the 20th century, through better technology and refinement, PVC advanced into a versatile, cost-effective, stable, and high-density material that is used in industries such as health care, IT, transport, textiles and construction∗. PVC’s properties make it the perfect material for exterior and interior trim. It can be used anywhere you would use wood, but PVC offers numerous advantages over other building materials such as wood, concrete, or metal.
PVC is strong, lightweight, easy to install, and cost-effective. PVC is also a socially valuable resource as it is non-toxic and recyclable. Frequent replacement is also unnecessary, and PVC requires relatively low energy use to produce*. PVC, unlike wood that has knots, splits, and voids, has a 100% usage ratio. All of these properties are good for the environment. PVC is easy to install, requiring only standard woodworking tools. Other advantages over wood are PVC’s resistance to mold, mildew, UV rays, rot, chemical corrosion (like salt), insect infestations, and bird damage. PVC does not require paint, but you can paint it secure in the knowledge that the paint will never peel due to the moisture content. Additionally, PVC is impervious to moisture, making it ideally suited for all exterior millwork including that which makes direct-ground and masonry contact.
Source: http://www.pvc.org
What are the recommendations for painting and cleaning PVC?
PVC does not require paint to maintain its integrity. Imagination Millwork recommends painting its products if you want to seal any rough edges to increase the products' resistance to dirt and/or mildew; after installing the product, based on your fastening option, you want to achieve a uniform color; or you want to paint the product a specific color. Imagination Millwork recommends the use of a 100% Acrylic paint [no primer is necessary] like one from Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore. While dark colors have in the past been prohibited, Sherwin Williams now carries a line of paint that allows for a variety of darker colors. Imagination Millwork is not affiliated with either Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore and does not guarantee any specific outcome from using any of these products. Always check with the manufacturer for specific instructions on how to use its paint.
Keeping your fake exterior PVC product clean will help prevent mildew from adhering to the paint, or dirt, on the products. You can easily clean your PVC product using a mild detergent and water.
Do you provide installation instructions?
Installation of our Decorative Faux Windows varies depending on what surface you will be installing them on. For easy-to-follow instruction please contact our Sales department at 301-874-1160 ext. 1.
What service do you use to ship your products?
Shipping for all Imagination Millwork products are via UPS Ground Service. Items ordered together may not arrive in the same box but, will all be shipped via UPS.
How much is shipping?
Shipping costs are based on the size, and weight, of your product. Shipping times are based on your location. We do not charge a handling fee. Shipping, based on these criteria, are calculated at checkout.
Do you ship outside of the U.S. or to Post Office boxes?
Sorry but at this time shipping is only available within the contiguous United States. WE DO NOT SHIP TO CANADA. Please check back periodically for changes in this policy.
Imagination Millwork cannot ship to post office boxes.
How long does it take to ship?
We make every effort to process your order as quickly as possible and you will be notified, via your provided email address, as soon as your order is completed and ready for shipping. All fake exterior products are shipped, from our warehouse, via UPS standard ground services and generally will arrive within 3-7 business days. If there is a delay, we will also notify you by email.
How long will it take to build my product?
Imagination Millwork's typical processing time for built-to-order products is approximately (3) three-weeks from the date of the accepted order. Custom order processing time varies based on the product but typical is about (4) four-weeks.
What is your cancellation and return policy?
Please see our Return & Cancellation Policies page for details.
Do you charge tax?
Imagination Millwork will collect sales tax and/or other applicable taxes on all orders shipped within the state of Maryland. All applicable taxes will be clearly displayed on your final order or receipt. State sales, and other tax, rates are subject to change at any time.