Flexible PU trim is PU trim that's manufactured with a different internal structure than rigid PU trim, allowing the trim to bend to a specified radius. The flexible trim is used for curved walls, arched ceilings, and any application where the rigid trim won't follow the curve.
The most common flexible trim is a kerfed flexible trim. The back of the trim is cut with thin parallel kerfs (cuts) that allow the trim to flex. The kerfs are typically 5 to 10 millimeters apart, and the kerf depth is typically 50 to 75% of the trim's thickness. The kerfed trim can flex to a moderate radius (typically 1.5 meters or larger).
A second common flexible trim is a softer formulation flexible trim. The trim is made from a softer PU formulation that allows the trim to flex without kerfs. The softer trim can flex to a tighter radius (typically 1 meter or larger), but the trim's surface is slightly less rigid than the rigid equivalent.
A third common flexible trim is a custom-radius flexible trim. The factory pre-shapes the flexible trim to the exact radius specified by the buyer, and the trim is shipped pre-shaped. The pre-shaped trim is the easiest to install, because it doesn't need to be coaxed into the curve on site.
For sourcing, the right conversation with the factory is about the radius, the profile, the length of each curved run, and the application. The factory needs the radius to determine the right flexible formulation, the profile to match the rigid pieces, and the length to plan production. The lead time is typically 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the factory's workload.
A practical note on the minimum radius. The minimum radius for a standard flexible trim is approximately 1.5 meters. For tighter radii, the factory can produce a custom flexible trim with a different kerf pattern or a softer formulation, but the cost is higher and the lead time is longer.
A practical note on the joint. The joint between the flexible trim and the rigid trim is the most visible part of the install, and it has to be cut cleanly. The standard approach is to cut the rigid piece at a slight angle to match the curve's direction, and to cut the flexible piece to land flat against the rigid piece. The joint is then filled with a flexible, paintable caulk that moves with the material.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is your factory MOQ?
A: MOQ depends on the product line: stock cornice and skirting profiles start at 200 linear meters per shipment, wall panels at 50 square meters, and custom OEM/ODM profiles at 500 linear meters or 1,000 pieces. Sample orders are accepted for most catalog items, with sample fees credited toward the first bulk order.
Q: What are your standard lead times?
A: Stock catalog items ship within 7–15 days of order confirmation. Custom tooling for OEM profiles takes 25–35 days for sample approval plus 20–30 days for bulk production. Air freight from Guangzhou / Shenzhen takes 5–10 days to most major ports; sea freight takes 18–32 days depending on destination.
Q: Do you offer OEM and ODM services?
A: Yes. Our factory offers full OEM (your brand, our tooling) and ODM (your 3D model or sample, our design team reverse-engineers and produces custom tooling) services. We can sign NDAs, work from hand sketches, photographs, or CAD files, and ship samples for approval before bulk production.
Q: What are your payment terms?
A: Standard terms are 30% T/T deposit on order confirmation and 70% balance against a copy of the B/L. For new buyers we also accept 100% L/C at sight. Long-term partners can apply for open-account terms after three successful orders.