[MassHistPres] Question about use of "Azak" or other synthetic polymer based products

[Young, Andrea]

Hello Jane,

The Hingham Historic Districts Commission has struggled with limited approval of composites for years in the face of pressure from applicants and building professionals, especially since these products continue to improve in appearance and functionality.  Hingham HDC has stated its policy is that the Commission will consider the use of composites on a case by case basis; and therefore, has published no guidelines for the use of composites.

The Commission will approve composite materials for limited use where rot has occurred and will likely occur again, i.e. the bases of columns, stairs, water tables.  One material that the Commission has not approved is Trex – primarily used for decking, porch floors, stair treads and similar uses, when visible from a public way.   The Commission advises that mahogany and ironwood (Epay) are appropriate alternatives.
[Town of Hingham]<http://www.hingham-ma.gov/>


Andrea Young
Administrator
Hingham Historical Commission
Hingham Historic Districts Commission
Town of Hingham
210 Central Street
Hingham, MA 02043
Voice: (781) 741-1492
younga at hingham-ma.gov<mailto:younga at hingham-ma.gov>
www.hingham-ma.gov<http://www.hingham-ma.gov>

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From: MassHistPres [mailto:masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu] On Behalf Of Judy Neiswander
Sent: Monday, June 04, 2018 7:22 PM
To: MHC Preservation listserv <masshistpres at cs.umb.edu>
Subject: [MassHistPres] Question about use of "Azak" or other synthetic polymer based products

Fellow Historic District Commissioners;

Our Commission is often asked to allow the use of "Azak" or other synthetic polymer based products in moist areas in lieu of lumber. Most often requested are applications at the base water table adjacent to the grade, and for fascias and soffit material backing up gutters at the roof eave. When painted this material is indistinguishable from wood of similar dimensions.

Neither the Park Service nor MHC prohibit use and we are interested how other Historic Commissions have handled these requests. We would like to set a policy for our 'Guidelines'.

Thank you for your advice.

Judy Neiswander,
Commissioner,
Town of Dedham Historic Districts Commission and Historical Commission.

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