Selecting the right exterior door trim material is important for both functional benefits and aesthetic continuity. Some common material options, like cedar and vinyl, each come with strengths and drawbacks. Exterior doors endure more frequent contact and closer scrutiny than most areas of a home’s exterior, so the trim here needs to be tough, consistent, and attractive, qualities that many trim materials often fail to deliver.

Vinyl trim, for example, may look the part from a distance but lacks the authentic profile and finish that real wood offers. It can warp in the heat and crack in the cold. Metal trim options often develop a chalky finish and don’t hold up visually over time, causing curb appeal depreciation. Cedar is a traditional exterior trim favorite but comes with issues like softness, denting, and bleed-through from natural oils unless properly sealed. Finally, while fiber cement is revered for its long-term durability, the upfront material cost, special tools, and special installation requirements are hurdles for builders looking for outstanding performance and visual appeal.

There are a lot of materials on the market for door trim, but not all will provide optimal or cost-effective results. Some will even limit design options, while others inevitably lead to callbacks. Belco’s XT trim offers the performance and appearance builders need and homeowners deserve.