What is "Pinking"?

Pinking is the term used to describe the costly discolouration of white PVC-UE cellular foam fascias and PVC-U rigid mouldings, which can occur some time after installation. The discolouration, characterised by a reddish tinge, can develop at any time but usually appears between two and five years after fitting, and more often on North-facing structures. Fixing the problem usually involves removal and installation.

What causes it

While there is still some disagreement among technical experts as to the exact cause of pinking, facia systems manufactured using lead-based stabilisers have been, and are still being, affected by discolouration. The safest solution for everybody is to avoid the use of lead based products completely.

Who pays for treatment?

The legal battles between raw material suppliers and fascia manufacturers rumble on some for seven years or more, because the potential liabilities are immense and blame can be difficult to pin down - in the meantime the consumer suffers.

How can you avoid these costs and problems?

There is only one sure way to avoid the risks and costs of replacement and rectification, and that is to avoid having lead-based fascia boards and accessories installed at your home.

What can you use?

Fortunately not all products are affected.  Insist that your installer uses a lead-free product only and read the manufacturer’s guarantee to ensure that your home will be guaranteed against pinking.  All Freefoam manufactured cellular foam fascias are 100% lead-free, thus enabling Freefoam to offer a unique 20 year extended guarantee on registered installations.