Aspects described herein are directed to compositions, systems, and methods of manufacturing a polymer-based construction material comprising polymeric resin and filler such as calcium carbonate (CaCO3). A surface of the polymer-based construction material may be treated such that the surface energy is increased from the material's inherent value to a predetermined value of at least 40 dynes/cm2. Further, the surface energy of the treated surface may persist within 20% of the predetermined value for at least three days.