As homebuyers become increasingly savvy about the materials used in their homes, builders across the Southeast are rethinking their standard finishes. Today’s buyer doesn’t just want style — they want durability, easy maintenance, and long-term value. For builders working in high-humidity regions like Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina, selecting the right materials has never been more important.
That’s where solid surface architectural trim comes into play.
Solid surface — a man-made, non-porous material known for its seamless design and high resistance to moisture — is gaining traction in the construction world as a go-to upgrade. Traditionally used in commercial and institutional settings, this material is now being adopted by forward-thinking builders looking to improve both performance and buyer satisfaction without compromising budgets.
Built for Builders, Loved by Buyers
Unlike wood or MDF, which can warp, rot, or require regular repainting, solid surface is inherently waterproof and incredibly durable. It's also incredibly adaptable — suitable for everything from window sills to shower components, offering a clean, uniform look that integrates easily with modern interiors.
In new home construction, one of the most impactful uses is in window sills. While wood sills may look fine on day one, they often absorb moisture, crack at the seams, and require repainting — especially in humid climates like those found throughout the Southeastern U.S. Solid surface sills, on the other hand, maintain their shape, color, and structural integrity for years. And because they don’t need painting or sealing, they save homeowners time and effort — a huge selling point in today’s market.
The same is true for wall caps and threshold strips, which are frequently used in bathrooms, stair landings, or across transitions between different flooring types. Solid surface versions of these components not only look clean and modern, but also eliminate grout lines, making them far easier to clean and maintain over time. This seamless quality has even earned solid surface national recognition — endorsed by the healthcare sector and the U.S. Military for its NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) Class 51 certification, these products meet sanitation standards suitable for food zones, giving buyers added confidence in their material integrity.
Why Builders Should Pay Attention
For builders, the decision to upgrade materials often comes down to balancing performance with cost. Solid surface offers a high return on investment by reducing callbacks, increasing buyer satisfaction, and enhancing the perceived quality of the finished home. Whether you’re working on a high-end custom build or a volume development project, this material installs cleanly, resists job-site damage, and requires minimal finishing.
Additionally, using solid surface for shower seats and curb caps creates not only a functional wet area, but one that looks sleek and spa-like — all while being code-compliant and long-lasting. For aging-in-place designs or ADA-friendly features, these seats provide durable support with slip-resistant surface options. Unlike tile or wood alternatives, they won’t harbor mold or mildew, making them ideal for family bathrooms or hospitality-grade environments.
If you're deciding between common trim and surface materials, check out our solid surface material comparison guide to see how it stacks up against wood, granite, marble, and more.
Fit for the Southeast — and the Future
Builders in the Southeastern U.S. face unique challenges — humidity, storms, salt air, and temperature swings can wreak havoc on poorly chosen materials. Solid surface stands up to these environmental pressures with ease. It doesn’t warp, it doesn’t rot, and it doesn’t fade. Plus, it keeps looking new long after wood or tile would have required repair or replacement.
As homebuyers continue to prioritize low-maintenance, hygienic, and sustainable materials, solid surface is fast becoming a mark of next-generation construction standards.
Partner with Okahumpka Sill Company
At Okahumpka Sill Company, we support builders throughout the Southeast with reliable, high-quality solid surface products for sills, wall caps, thresholds, shower seats, and more. As members of several respected industry organizations and with a product line recognized for meeting stringent sanitation and safety standards, we help builders deliver the quality that modern buyers expect — while staying on time and on budget.
Whether you're designing a luxury home in Naples or managing a multifamily development in Charlotte, solid surface upgrades can set your work apart in all the right ways.
Contact us today.