How to Clean and Maintain Natural Stone Veneer

Natural stone veneer is a popular solution for new home construction and remodeling projects. Drive through any newly developed neighborhood and natural stone claddings are featured on the exterior of ost homes. Stone projects permanence and class.

Inside, as well, natural stone is the cladding of choice for family rooms and fireplaces, accent walls, and even bathrooms. Back outside, family entertainment areas and patios feature stone fireplaces, walls, walkways, and seating areas, made from natural stone.

While we think of stone as eternal, even natural stone veneer products accumulate dirt and grime, particularly on outside surfaces, and benefit from periodic cleaning.

What are Natural Stone Veneers?

Natural stone veneers are produced from real quarried stone and cut into thin easy-to-apply veneer panels, tiles, and accessories that dramatically reduce labor and on-site waste. ProCoat Systems, a distributor of quality building materials in the Rocky Mountain Region, is a partner of several world-class companies. One standout company is RealStone Systems™ , a producer of the highest quality natural stone veneer products.

RealStone products are available in a wide variety of color tones, styles, finishes, stone types, uses, formats, and sizes. Stone veneers may be quartzite, marble, sandstone, ledgestone, slate, granite, limestone, and travertine,

Maintaining Natural Stone

Over time, stone attracts soot and dirt particularly on exterior surfaces and specifically in joints and junctions. Natural stone can be porous and absorb dirt, rain, or other moisture that eventually causes staining.  If not periodically cleaned, the appearance of the exterior wall or fireplace surround can take on a dingy appearance and may become more difficult to clean.

Care should be taken to not overly scrub, but to gently clean the surface of the stone cladding.

Begin by rinsing the stone with water to remove any loose debris and dirt.

There is no need to use acids nor harsh chemicals. These can stain the surface of the natural stone and forever alter its appearance. Simply brush the dirty areas with a soft brush and mild detergent with water, and the exterior surface of the stone should return to a like-new appearance.

After brushing, rinse away any detergent that may linger since this also can leave a residue that could compromise the color of the stone. Allow the wall to dry, making sure that all soot and grime have been removed.

Contact ProCoat Systems

The experts at ProCoat Sytems understand the installation and maintenance of many types of interior and exterior cladding, whether manufactured or natural. As a partner to several world-class producers of quality construction and remodeling products, the ProCoat professionals are available to discuss your project.

Phone ProCoat Systems at (303)-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/clean-maintain-natural-stone-veneer/

The Ins and Outs of Stone Veneers

Quality stone veneer is becoming the material of choice for many home construction and remodeling projects. Beautiful, natural-looking, durable, lightweight, easy to install, and economical, stone veneers offer a highly sustainable option for interior and exterior use.

Exterior Applications for Stone Veneer

Properly applied stone veneer claddings provide beautiful, long lasting exteriors that add curb appeal and sophistication to otherwise ordinary homes and businesses. Whether as wainscoting or a complete exterior covering, quality stone veneer can transform any home from simple to gentile.

And, resurfacing an entryway with stone veneer will create new first impressions at your front door.

Stone veneer works beautifully for cloaking columns and porches. In outdoor entertainment areas, a beautiful stone veneer fireplace with an adjacent stone veneer- preparation area, wall, or seating area adds charm to the setting. Supplement these with well-placed lighting and the area can become a wonderland of nighttime splendor.

Stone Veneer Interior Applications

A well-chosen, beautifully installed stone veneer fireplace surround creates a re-imagined focal point for your living area. Family rooms take on a lodge-like feel or stately and elegant appearance with the right stone veneer covering, mantel, and hearth.

A stone accent wall changes the ambiance of any room. Because high-quality stone veneer from ProCoat Systems is relatively thin, the space within the room is not compromised.

Adding stone veneer to an interior wall can change the ambiance of the room. Whether you choose to dress up a dining room, create a warm and elegant atmosphere in a bedroom, or enhance the grandeur of a dining room, quality stone veneer adds a natural feel to the surroundings.

Create a Bathroom Spa

A stone accented bathroom is pure elegance. By creating a spa-like atmosphere, homeowners can enjoy a feeling of nature-in-private as they shower or bathe. Textures may range from rustic to serene while optional shades can be creamy or dark.

Contact ProCoat Systems for Quality Stone Veneer Products

ProCoat Systems represents the top manufacturers of high-quality natural and manufactured stone veneer products. Stone veneers today have evolved to encompass all of the positive attributes of whole natural stone, like beauty and durability, without the negatives of difficult installation, excessive waste, and cost.

ProCoat presents a full range of stone veneer options available in every style, color, texture, shape, and size.

For more information, visit the ProCoat website to view new ideas and the array of natural and manufactured stone veneer options.

Or, for questions regarding material choices and installation,  phone the experts at ProCoat at (303)-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/ins-outs-stone-veneers/

Exercise Personal Design Creativity with Quality Interior Veneer Stone

Today’s stone veneers, whether produced from natural or manufactured stone, can add a stunning measure of beauty, style, and the ambiance of your choosing to any setting. Interior veneer stone may create a lodge-like feel to a family or living room with a new fireplace surround or an elegant, an outdoor spa atmosphere to a bathroom, or an elegant ambiance with a new stone bedroom wall.

The styles, textures, and colors available in today’s interior stone veneers can produce virtually any style a home or business owner’s imagination can conceive. ProCoat Systems of Denver represents the world’s leading innovators in manufactured stone veneers. Their products replicate the appearance of natural stone such as granite, limestone, marble, or slate. 

High-quality stone veneer is easily applied with far less waste than natural stone and at a lower cost.

Unique Interior Veneer Stone Applications

Besides living rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms, interior designers are visualizing other unique applications to add drama to any home or office space. By coordinating with the existing architecture and color schemes, spaces such as stairwells, alcoves, entryways, and highlight walls can bring the outside in and emit a strong natural aura to the space.

Whether owners choose to install stone veneer themselves or look to professional installers, the project requires precision and attention to detail to achieve the desired result.

Installing Interior  Stone Veneer

The first consideration for stone veneer installation is to make sure the wall or substrate will be strong enough to support the weight of the stone products. The square foot weight of the stone, mortar, and lath can be as much as 25 pounds per square foot.

Normally, stone veneer can be placed over either wood or metal framed walls or masonry substrates.

If you are in doubt about the integrity of the wall or substrate, contact an expert to assess the wall structure to make sure the wall is strong enough to support the extra weight.

Boral’s Cultured Stone® veneer installation instructions involve the following steps:

• Wall Preparation: 2 layers of Water Resistive Barrier plus weep screed to drain away moisture from the new veneer
• Lath Installation: In compliance with building codes, lath can be metal, woven wire, welded wire, or fiberglass.
• Apply Scratch Coat: Encapsulate the lath with a full mortar scratch coat to enhance adhesion and prevent the intrusion of moisture and air.
• Setting Bed: Make sure the stone is clean, use quality mortar, and mix exactly per instructions. Apply mortar in 5-foot square sections to a ½” to ¾” thickness. Apply a thin layer to the back of each stone piece and set.

Contact ProCoat Systems

Experts in the installation of all types of architectural coatings, the professionals at ProCoat advise and assist in the material selection and strategies for the installation of interior stone veneer.

For more information, phone ProCoat at (303)-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/beautiful-versatile-natural-thin-stone-veneer/

Beautiful and Versatile Natural Thin Stone Veneer

Natural thin stone veneer is real stone cut into thicknesses of 1” to 2” for easy application, handling, and transport. The effect is the same as the traditional stone mason’s cutting and shaping without the waste and extra labor. The end results are walls, flooring, fireplace surrounds, and other architectural features that convey the beauty, color, and texture of real stone without the mass and waste.

Natural thin stone veneers from ProCoat Systems in Denver come in a wide range of shapes and types. By partnering with the most skilled stone artisans in the industry, realstone Systems™, ProCoat offers a selection to match any taste or application.

Easy to Install

The craftsmen at realstone Systems make installation as simple as possible. Starting with real stone material, cutting these into thin veneer pieces and positioning them beautifully in panels and planks, the result is a stunning well-crafted wall or fireplace without the mess and hassle of mortaring each joint. The process is simple, consumes less time, and eliminates sloppy imperfections.

Affordable

Using natural stone products to create thin veneers eliminates most of the problems and much of the cost that accompanies working with whole stone pieces. Real veneer products are cut so that installation is simple and requires little or no shaping to apply the stone to the substrate. As a result, the piles of waste and extensive labor and skill to work on-site with the stone is eliminated.

Less Expensive Skilled labor + Reduced Transportation Costs+ Less Waste = Lower Finished Cost

realstone Systems Natural Thin Stone Veneer

Veneers from realstoneSystems are made from a broad range of stone types, each exhibiting a unique color, pattern, and texture created by Mother Nature. Colors range from white and light gray to reds, browns, taupes, to entirely black. Each piece is unique.

Natural Veneers are produced from stone types including:

• Granite
• Limestone
• Marble
• Quartzite
• Sandstone
• Slate
• Travertine

Natural Stone Veneer Shapes

Besides color, texture, and natural patterns, the stone shape also reflects the natural beauty of the beauty of the stone veneer. Pieces may be round, square, rectangular, ledge cut, mosaic, or a mixture of any combination to create a truly unique pattern.  

Contact ProCoat for High-Quality Natural Thin Stone Veneer

ProCoat Systems is a leading supplier of the highest quality exterior and interior claddings and coatings. For questions regarding any project, contact the experts at ProCoat for information about materials, installation instruction, and pricing.

Call ProCoat Systems today at (303)-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/beautiful-versatile-natural-thin-stone-veneer/

Installing Quality Stone Veneer for Maximum Beauty and Durability

Stone veneer products add elegance and style to any interior or exterior space.

Create a dramatic focal point in your living area with a stylish and beautiful new fireplace surround made of high-quality stone veneer. Add class and a natural outdoor feel to your bathroom or family room with a brand new stone cladding.

Or, on the outside, install a stone veneer wainscoting to brighten that dull siding and enhance the curb appeal and add real value to your home. Or, consider creating a stone clad fireplace and new walls to your backyard living and cooking space.

Available in a wide range of stone styles, textures, and colors, homeowners can create the ambiance of their dreams with high-quality stone veneer applications from ProCoat Systems in Denver.

Why Stone Veneer?

Whether natural or manufactured stone, cutting or shaping the material into easy-to-manage formats has become the norm. Compared to whole natural stone, the process of creating individual pieces into a veneer that is approximately two inches or so in thickness allows for:

• Reduced waste
• Lower transport costs
• Reduced the mess around the worksite
• Less weight and very little cutting
• Quicker and easier installation
• Not requiring a professional stone mason to cut and shape each stone
• A less expensive application compared to whole natural stone

Even though the implementation is more straightforward with stone veneer products, the project must be appropriately handled with precision and attention to detail to ensure a beautiful, long-lasting result. For answers to questions concerning stone veneer installation, contact the ProCoat Systems specialists.

How are Stone Veneer Products Installed?

The critical starting point is to select the right stone veneer products. ProCoat of Denver has partnered with the top stone veneer producers in the industry and can offer the product with all of the properties of color, texture, size, and stone type that you can imagine.

A second consideration is to plan ahead to ensure that the potential for moisture and water intrusion behind the construction is eliminated. If you are not sure how this is done, contact an experienced installer.

With that concern in mind, here a few additional tips for a quality installation:

1. Wherever the stone veneer will approach a juncture at a window or door, , for example, the installer should leave a gap of about 3/8” in which to install a backer rod that will prevent water from seeping behind the veneer to weaken the structure.
2. Flashing is vital in any construction to eliminate the introduction of water around joints and junctures, mainly from above. Make sure the flashing is sized correctly so that a substantial rainstorm cannot penetrate behind the stone veneer where spaces are not protected.
3. Weep Holes provide an added insurance against accumulating moisture. If water should find its way behind the veneer, the weep holes at the bottom of the construction will allow the moisture to escape. Keeping moisture and mold from developing is the most important part of the installation process.

Contact ProCoat Systems

For the highest quality stone veneers, contact ProCoat Systems of Denver and Salt Lake City. The professionals at ProCoat will be pleased to discuss your vision and provide expert advice, materials, and tools to realize your dream.

Visit the ProCoat website or phone ProCoat Systems at (303)-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/installing-quality-stone-veneer-maximum-beauty-durability/

Add Elegance with Exterior Stone Veneer Applications

Whether with real or manufactured stone veneer, homeowners can add grandeur and permanence to the exterior of their home. Stone cladding columns, exterior walls, seating surfaces, and outdoor fireplaces creates a natural surrounding for entertainment and relaxation.

Home Exterior Stone Veneer Cladding

A home with new partial or complete stone veneer cladding takes on a whole new personality. In a neighborhood with many wood, metal, or even brick-sided homes that are similar, a freshly clad stone exterior, partial or complete, adds value and a notable curb appeal enhancement.

A stone archway over an entry, for example, can stateliness and charm to an otherwise neutral façade.

Genuine and manufactured stone veneers are available in many shapes, styles, and colors. Dry stack or mortar applied, styles of ledgestone, granite, cobblestone, or other products may be smooth or split-faced for greater texture. The colors range from very dark to nearly white with a huge variety of shades in between. 

Stone veneers are less costly and easier to install than the traditional stonework that once required on-site cutting, shaping, and fitting by professional masons. The stone veneers are pre-cut to a thickness of only a few inches, yet provide the same durability and sturdiness as whole stone applications.

Also, exterior stone veneers applied to the home can increase the energy efficiency by adding another layer of installation and moisture resistance.

Patios and Outside Fireplaces

Landscaping is more than bushes, plants, and a nice yard. Sprucing up the exterior oasis with stone features adds drama and a natural enclave for family and friends. Even the walls and seating areas on and around the patio or deck can be clad in stone veneer products.

Don’t forget stone veneer cladding for the columns and pillars that dramatically punctuate the entertainment area by adding a vertical dimension to the space.

Contact ProCoat of Denver

ProCoat Systems of Denver works with the finest, world-class manufacturers of genuine and manufactured stone veneers. These innovative products have come a long way since the original “cookie-cutter” veneers of years past. With a broad range of styles, colors and textures, stone veneers today are extremely durable, beautiful, cost-efficient, and easier to install.

For information and a menu of options regarding exterior stone veneer stone choices, check with the experts at ProCoat Systems in Denver. You can learn more by visiting the ProStone Systems website, or phone today at (303)-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/add-elegance-exterior-stone-veneer-applications/

Outstanding Advantages of Real Stone Veneer

Although many of the manufactured stone veneers have reached a high level of quality, nothing can match the beauty and elegance of real stone veneers for interior and exterior surfaces. While manufactured products can be expected to last for decades, real stone is virtually eternal.

Natural stone construction from marble, limestone, travertine, and slate, for example, have withstood centuries of exposure to the elements without any diminished strength and appearance.

Real stone veneers are a product of natural stone that is cut into thin pieces for ease of application. Home and business owners may choose from a wide range of real stone and cladding products.

What are the Advantages of Real Stone Veneer?

Beauty: Natural stone is quarried in several places around the world, each location yielding different characteristics. Marble, slate, limestone, and ledgestone, for example, are found in such places as China, India, Turkey, Italy, and even parts of the United States. Colors, shades, and textures vary depending on the source. Patterns and striations between any two pieces are never identical and their natural variations only enhances their beauty.

Uniqueness: Stone like marble and limestone is created by fossils, water, heat, and the ever-increasing pressure from above. The rock formation is a result of the chemical changes that take place over time. Imperfections like veining and pitting are simply natural occurrences that add substantially to the natural beauty of the veneer.

Durability: Stone is stone and virtually nothing can outlast it. Note that while most of the structure of old buildings deteriorate or burn down, what remains is usually only the stone fireplace. Real stone veneer possesses all the durability of whole stone.

Ease-of-Application: When real stone is cut into more uniform, thin pieces, the natural strength remains. However, application is far easier than attempting to cut real stone on-site. The savings derived from eliminating the transport, waste, and labor is substantial and the results are amazing.

Space Savings: Real stone veneer is cut into easy-to-apply one to two-inch units. As a result, the stone adds very little to the thickness of the wall making it perfect for smaller rooms, spaces, and narrow walkways.

Contact ProCoat Systems to Learn More

ProCoat Systems is a leading supplier of world-class coatings and claddings for interior and exterior use. For more information about real stone veneer, contact the experts at ProCoat at 303.322.9009.

And check out ProCoat’s website to see some more new building and remodeling ideas.

This post was originally published at procoatsystems.com/outstanding-advantages-real-stone-veneer/

Fireplace Surround Designs Using Stone Veneer

The fireplace is often the most dramatic focal point in any home or business. More than simply a log-burning cavity, the surfaces that surround fire box can be elegant, rustic, linear, or impressively massive. The fireplace, surround, mantle and the areas above will draw attention and can create the mood. Danes revere a concept known as “hygge” (pronounced hoo-gah) which depicts surroundings that exude comfort, well-being, and coziness. Nothing creates a “hygge” atmosphere better than a beautiful fireplace on a frosty evening.

That sense of well-being can be greatly enhanced by replacing that tired, old fireplace surround with a beautiful new stone veneer. Expand the size, create a beautiful and symmetrical stone surround with rectilinear stone veneer pieces, or recreate that irregular and natural stone lodge-like appeal with rough-surfaced stone veneer.

Application of  Stone Veneer for Fireplaces

Stone veneers are available in a wide variety of styles, shapes, colors, and stone types. These may be either natural or manufactured stone veneers with each piece cut into an easy-to-install size and thickness. Ledgestone, cobble, brook, and ashlar are some common natural stone veneers.

ProCoat System’s Cultured® Stone can create all the same effects and ambiance as natural stone veneer but with lower cost. Durable, the manufactured stone veneers for fireplace surrounds are guaranteed for 50 years when professionally installed.

Getting Started

Once the style and color of stone veneer for fireplace surrounds are chosen and in place, the installation begins. The following steps are necessary whether installing a natural or a manufactured fireplace surround.

Install the Base Layers:

1.   Apply builder’s felt to the entire area to be covered.

2.   Cover the felt with the metal lath that will keep the mortar from slipping. Carefully bend the lath around the corners of the fireplace until the material is flush with the subsurface.

3.   Apply mortar over the metal lath. This will act as the scratch coat.

4.   Once the mortar is applied, use a notched tilling trowel to create a grooved, textured surface.

5.   Let this all stand for at least overnight.

Applying the Stone Veneer

1.   On a flat surface, create a “dry run” with your stones, placing them exactly as if you are applying them to the fireplace surround. Minimize the grout gaps, where possible, and pay particular attention to the fireplace opening and the outer edges of the surround.

2.   Remove any excess material from the pieces.

3.   Install the corner pieces and header stones.

4.   Fill in the spaces between the corners and header.

5.   Fill in the grout spaces.

Contact ProStone Systems for Guidance

Applying a natural or cultured stone veneer to a fireplace surround is an exacting process. An experienced mason will more often achieve the  desired result.

 For advice or direction regarding natural or manufactured stone veneers for fireplace surrounds, contact the experts at ProCoat Systems in Colorado. ProCoat professionals can help you with imagining, designing, and product selection to create your desired effect.

Call ProCoat Systems at 1-303-322-9009.

This post was originally published at procoatsystems.com/fireplace-surround-designs-using-stone-veneer/

Is Stone Veneer Effective Against Water Intrusion?

One of the critical decision points regarding the installation of natural stone veneers for interior or exterior walls pertains to how well these coatings will resist water intrusion. Considerable effort has been expended to identify the best strategies for resisting the effects of water exposure to retain a dry and mold-free environment throughout the building.

The problem lies not in the stone material itself but with creating a system that will keep moisture from penetrating behind the natural stone veneer. An accumulation of moisture beneath the outer surface jeopardizes the integrity of the entire wall covering and eventually weakens the subsurface. Over time, mold will develop that will require replacing all coverings and replacing all affected wall materials.

Following specific instructions during installation can eliminate the possibility of water damage and prevent the need for expensive repairs.

Strategies for Installing a High-Quality Stone Veneer Wall to Prevent Water Intrusion

Experts at ProCoat in Denver have determined that carefully addressing three areas during the installation will provide a healthy and beautiful stone surface without the fear of intruding water damage. The three steps to focus on are:

●       Sealing window, door, and siding edges to close gaps

●       Bigger flashing is need to protect the thicker stone veneers

●       Create more weeps for any intruding moisture to escape

Careful attention to elements can reduce the likelihood of ever having a trapped moisture problem.

Minding the Gaps

The vertical spaces between door and window frames are primary culprits for allowing moisture into the inner parts of the structure. Knowing that the natural stone thickness is greater than with stucco or other sidings, using larger flashing to accommodate the cladding will prevent moisture intrusion. Bigger and longer flashing is far more acceptable for natural stone veneer coverings than flashing which is too small or too short.

Provide More Escape Routes

A sufficient number of “weeps” are necessary to ensure that any water that does intrude is allowed to escape quickly. This last line of defense is needed in any case, so make sure that there are an abundance of weep holes to carry out the mission of keeping your subsurface as dry as possible.

Find further commentary on this challenge, the attached ProCoat’s website has more detailed information.

Contact ProCoat Denver

The experts at ProCoat in Denver will be very pleased to help you understand the steps required to eliminate the harmful and expensive effects of water intrusion on your beautiful new natural stone veneer. Check the ProCoat website or call 303.322.9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/stone-veneer-effective-water-intrusion/

New Stone Veneers for Any Application

ProCoat Systems of Denver invites you to witness their variety of exciting stone veneer products from Coronado Stone Products. These may be applied to interior or exterior surfaces to impart just about any unique and beautiful appearance you desire.For over 50 years, Coronado has innovated and replicated virtually every stone appearance that will add elegance and beauty to any indoor or outdoor setting.

To upgrade an old fireplace surround, a dull interior wall, or a tired and unsightly exterior façade, Coronado’s range of stone products from ProCoat Systems are the ideal answer. Durable, attractive, and economical, these veneer products are designed to achieve just about any desired look for a home or business.

Range of  New Coronado Stone Products

For over fifty years, Coronado Stone has been a top innovator of quality stone products. Their line of veneers are unsurpassed in beauty, style, and durability. Each year, the experts at Coronado introduce new products that broaden consumer selection while staying abreast of new trends. The veneer products have been unsurpassed in matching the unique qualities of a broad range of stone types, textures, and colors. Whether the material conveys the look of natural split limestone or even barn wood siding, they are incomparable in delivering elegance, warmth, or even a rustic appeal.

To enhance their extensive collection of natural and cultured stone veneers, ProCoat offers twelve new Coronado products that will enhance the interior and exterior features of any home or business. 

Decorative Bands

Decorative Bands include:

●     4” Chiseled Limestone in Silver Ash, Cream

●     4” Country Beige with French Limestone, Country Beige

●     4” Chiseled French White with French Limestone

●     6” Chiseled French Limestone in Country Beige

●     6” Chiseled Limestone Band with Colosseum Travertine in Mushroom

These newer additions to the ProCoat System line of architectural precast stone complement their existing portfolio of quality stone veneer products. These are durable, lighter in weight, easier to apply, and less expensive than natural stone. Moreover, these timeless veneers are undetectable from natural products.

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

For more information about ProCoat System’s range of stone veneers and tiles, visit the ProCoat Showroom to view firsthand how attractive and versatile the Coronado products are. Alternatively, phone the experts at ProCoat to learn more about their products and installation.

Phone 303.322.9009. Also you may visit ProCoat’s website at http://www.procoatsystems.com/ to learn the ways ProCoat can help you with your project.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/new-stone-veneers-application/

Tips for Proper Stone Veneer Installation

Beautiful stone veneer can spawn an entirely new atmosphere for interior or exterior spaces. Whether natural or cultured stone, the long-lasting and stunning additions will add texture and a complementary spectrum of color to any room or outdoor livings space. Old fireplaces can benefit from a dramatic yet economical makeover with brilliant and exciting new shapes and patterns from ProCoat Systems.

Applying stone veneer, whether manufactured or natural, requires adhering to specific procedures for cutting, backing, cement texture, spacing, and placement. The experts at ProCoat Systems can advise the best methods for installing their stone veneer products.

With ProCoat’s top-quality stone veneer, installation is not difficult. However, for exterior surfaces, steps must be taken to ensure that moisture and water intrusion does not occur, a situation that can cause problems later. Experienced installers have developed specific processes and materials to prevent moisture intrusion from happening.

Protective Measures for Exterior Stone Veneer Applications

While each job may be different based on variable angles, pitches and configurations, installers have learned to overcompensate with protective measures to avoid embarrassing corrections later.

Backer Rods: At each juncture between the new stone veneer and any window, doorway, or other siding material, leave at least a 3/8” space. The gap should then be embedded with the appropriately sized foam backer rod. The backer rod is low-density polyethylene material with a skin-like surface that prevents the intrusion of moisture behind the newly installed stone veneer.

Flashing: Metal flashing must be added to avoid water from seeping behind the veneer from above. The width of the flashing must exceed the thickness of the veneer to channel water completely away. During the violent pounding rainstorms that sometimes occurs in Colorado, complete protection is necessary. If the flashing is too narrow, the water will eventually seep behind the veneer to create problems later.

Weep Holes: As a final “just-in-case” protection, installers frequently insert weep holes. These holes are located at the bottom of the veneer surface to allow any moisture that may have entered to escape. This last line of defense can prevent mold from developing which would require an expensive reworking job.

Check with ProCoat Systems for Installation Information

Depending on where and what type of stone material you will be applying, installation procedures may differ. Installing a stone veneer coating to an exterior or interior surface is a permanent improvement, one that should not require redoing or dismantling. Doing the job right the first time will save money and many headaches later.

Check with ProCoat Systems in Denver, Ft. Collins, or Salt Lake City for detailed instructions regarding the proper installation of natural or cultured stone veneers.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/tips-proper-stone-veneer-installation/

Top Stone Veneer Distributors in America

High-quality real or cultured stone veneers are perfect for just about any application. These high-quality stone claddings add beauty and elegance to any project and are available in a variety of colors, shapes and textures.

An essential group of ProCoat Systems’ broad portfolio of coatings and claddings is their comprehensive line of stone and masonry products for any interior or exterior surface. Collaborating with an impressive supply chain of world-class stone product producers and distributors, ProCoat offers premium choices of materials to match any taste and budget.

While stone veneers naturally feel rigid to the touch, the textures and colors diffuse ambient light to add an elegant dimension and softness to any setting.

ProCoat Stone Veneer Suppliers

Stone veneers can be produced from actual stone or manufactured as cultured material. The stone types, colors, and textures offered by ProCoat Systems are vast, so choosing the right one for a particular setting and budget may be challenging.

Here is a list of ProCoat Systems’ high-quality stone veneer manufacturers:

Boral™ , a leader in manufactured stone products for walls and fireplaces, offers stone veneers that include ledgestone, fieldstone, Cultured Brick®, coral stone, limestone, castle stone, river stone, and more. Offering colors that range from very dark to white in variable shapes and sizes, Boral products are right for any job.

Boral is also the producer of ProCoat’s exclusive ProStone® line of stone veneers, designed to fit any budget with a full group of modern and traditional quality stone veneer products.

Coronado Stone Products® produces a full line of manufactured stone tile, veneers, thin brick, and precast products. In business for over 50 years, Coronado’s cultured products replicate the texture and color of almost any stone sourced from around the world.

realstone Systems™ manufactures natural stone products for walls and fireplaces.Available in rustic, traditional, classic and contemporary styles, Realstone products are made from a choice of:

●     marble

●     travertine

●     slate

●     granite

●     limestone

●     quartzite

●     sandstone

Arnoldstone™ Natural Stone Thin Veneers are lightweight and durable and are cut from genuine stone in ½” or ¾” thicknesses. These veneers impart natural elegance and style, while adding value and beauty to any project.

Contact ProCoat Systems

For more information regarding high-quality stone veneer and other coating systems, communicate with the experts at ProCoat. Visit their website at http://www.procoatsystems.com/ or phone 303.322.9009. Alternatively, visit their locations in Denver, Fort Collins, or Salt Lake City. ProCoat’s experts will be pleased to talk with you about solutions to any building or remodeling projects.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/top-stone-veneer-distributors-america/

Maintaining Your Natural Stone Veneer Siding

Any exterior surface needs maintenance and cleaning periodically. Harsh Rocky Mountain winters leave grime and debris that can dull the finish of any stone or painted surface. And, like anything else, regular preventative maintenance and cleaning will preserve that like-new appearance and lengthen the life of the exterior.

Natural stone veneers are certainly tough and long-lasting. In order to keep the exterior surfaces from appearing dull and worn, a regular maintenance program is an important process.

Regular Maintenance

Natural or manufactured stone veneer is usually applied to the exterior of a home or building to impart a more elegant and natural look. Whether the veneer completely covers the structure or is a prominent decorative feature with columns or wainscoting, keeping the stone clean and free of matter that can stain or degrade the product is essential. A dull appearance will noticeably reduce the overall visual impact of the veneer.

Setting up a simple, regular program of inspecting, cleaning, de-icing, and sealing the exterior veneer will retain the highlights and the impressive features that were intended.

Cleaning

Over the harsh winters and even during other seasons, the stone veneers will collect grime and soot. A close-up inspection can reveal what might not be obvious from a distance. But neglecting to clean the veneer will, over time, degrade the appearance and reduce the best features of the stone material. The longer the dirt remains, the more difficult the cleaning process becomes.

If the accumulation is not severe, the surface should should be cleaned with a whisk broom or soft brush and scrubbed with water only.

Efflorescence Removal

Because the stone is a veneer, water moving through the material to the exterior surface can cause the presence of “efflorescence” or a white chalky substance that results from the presence of underlying salts and minerals. Without using harsh methods, the white material should be gently removed by using a solution of 25% vinegar with water and gently scrubbing the surface with a soft brush.

De-Icing

In the Rocky Moungtain States, ice buildup can be a common occurrence. Manufactured stone veneer should not be exposed to harsh chemicals to remove accumulated ice. Salts and other products can negatively affect the veneers, so using only products that are designed for use on lightweight concrete products are acceptable.

Sealing the Stone Veneer

Before sealing the cleaned and de-iced stone veneers, owners should be careful in choosing which sealants to use. Only breathable, water-based sealers should be used since many products can dull the finish of the veneer. Check with ProCoat for questions about sealants for stone veneers.

Contact ProCoat Systems

For information about maintaining and sealing natural and cultured stone veneers, contact the experts at ProCoat Systems at 303.322.9009.