Protecting Stucco and EIFS from Rain Damage

Rain and moisture accumulation can create serious problems for any building cladding. With improperly applied stucco or EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems), water that finds its way under the exterior surfaces and remains can cause mold development, deterioration, or excessive cracking if the material remains damp for an extended period.

Some early EIFS applications suffered from moisture buildup beneath the surface in rainy or very humid climates and often began to show the symptoms over time. Stucco surfaces, while made from different material than EIFS, will also absorb moisture and certain measures must be adopted to prevent long-term damage. 

Strategies to Mitigate Water Damage

In truth, all building claddings leak or absorb water. Builders and architects have adopted appropriate strategies to resist excessive water retention in all kinds of claddings including EIFS, stucco, stone, granite, wood, vinyl, brick, and precast concrete. Existing water management construction methods tend to fall into the certain categories or combinations that include creating perfect barriers with interior and exterior water-resistant materials, building internal reservoir systems, or devising drainage systems within the wall cavities.

EIFS Moisture Management

Once the moisture problem of early EIFS construction in high-humidity areas was identified, architects added additional protection from possible accumulated moisture. Inserted within the energy-saving insulating layers is an additional section with a drainage cavity bordered by a water-resistant material to prevent extended moisture retention. The cavity design allows the moisture to flow out at the bottom, keeping the rest of the system relatively dry.

Most importantly, edges, seams, and joints must be sealed as completely as possible to resist any further penetration from the rain.

Stucco Moisture Management

Properly applied stucco, a combination of Portland cement, sand, lime, and water also can have the water-resistant capability in a modified reservoir and drainage system.  The stucco is applied over two layers of building paper and metal lath that has been placed over a layer of water-resistant gypsum board. The paper creates a drainage plane by first absorbing moisture from the stucco, then drying and shrinking, thereby creating a cavity between the stucco and the gypsum board. The open space allows for evaporation and drainage of moisture that had penetrated the stucco.  

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

For more information about cladding protection from rain or moisture problems, contact the experts at ProCoat Systems. Phone 303-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/protecting-stucco-eifs-rain-damage/

Is Your EIFS or Stucco Cracking?

While EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) exterior cladding and stucco may have a very similar appearance, the composition of these is different. The EIFS cladding, with several insulating and moisture-draining layers beneath, consists of polymeric-bonded aggregate and reinforced cement. Stucco, on the other hand, is a centuries-old material made from Portland cement and lime bonded with sand and water.

While the materials in EIFs or stucco are different, eventually aging, drying, and building movement can cause cracks in either material. The essential objective is to keep the amount of cracking over time in either material to a minimum.

Mitigating Cracking in EIFS Cladding

Surface cracks will eventually develop in the EIFS lamina or coating. The cause may be from hygric (moisture) or thermal stresses or a combination of both. The EIFS layering is supported by a mesh reinforcement that essentially redistributes the stress throughout the coating and allows minute micro-fractures to form rather than large visible cracks. Stucco does not have this built-in mitigation.

Over time, continued exposure to moisture will weaken the mesh material. This influence eventually reduces the elasticity of the mesh and can cause the mesh itself to crack. Usually the cracking first occurs near window openings where moisture may most likely accumulate.

Effects of Building Movement

Buildings move over time. Taller buildings are more likely to shift, though shorter ones do also. In some case, control joints are part of the design to minimize the stress from movement or shifting. When these are built into the structure, the stress from the movement will reduce cracking in either EIFS or stucco.

When EIFS are incorporated in a wood frame building, the stresses of movement from humidity and drying are absorbed by the wood members in a cross-grain fashion. According to Building Science.com, builders concentrate cross-grain wood elements at rim joists, around heavy framing, and top and bottom plates to respond to humidity changes.

EIFS or Stucco

EIFS is an effective energy managing and money-saving option for many types of structures. However, moisture and humidity management are essential to minimize cracking from humidity and accumulated moisture. The latest EIFS systems address these challenges by integrating moisture eliminating cavities and materials.

For more information about the many advantages of EIFS construction, contact ProCoat Systems in Denver at 303.322,9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/eifs-stucco-cracking/

Effects of Climate on EIFS Exterior Finishes

Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, popularly known as “EIFS”, is an exterior building cladding system designed decades ago to provide energy efficiency with integrated layers of various composite materials. Designed to act as a winter coat for any structure, the EIFS system is more than a simple exterior layer intended to add aesthetic value and protection.

From the inside outward, EIFS exterior finishes typically consists of a gypsum board interior surface covering a cavity insulation material, a sheathing material, a drainage plane of felt or housewrap, a drainage cavity with spacers to release trapped moisture, and finally a synthetic or traditional stucco applied over rigid insulation. These layers serve to eliminate energy transfer between the inside and outside while draining any moisture that is prone to accumulate when heat meets cold. 

Modern EIFS, with the addition of the moisture-eliminating cavity and materials, are called Drained EIFS.

How Do Climate Changes Affect Drained EIFS?

According to a Building Science blog from July 2007, many of the EIFS claddings installed in the 1980’s in humid or semi-humid areas eventually developed moisture accumulation problems. The result would be excess mold, decay, fungi, and deterioration. The problem was a result of moisture trapped between the layers and very limited drying potential in those areas.

 More recent variations of EIFS exterior finishes have eliminated the problem by designing drained EIFS that incorporate moisture eliminating cavities and barriers. As a result, accumulated moisture is no longer a problem with properly installed, energy-efficient EIFS.

The key to eliminating all moisture problems is to design and construct the exterior system in which the drying capability is greater than the wetting potential, i.e. rain. To minimize the impact of precipitation on any cladding surface, including EIFS, architects add features to redirect or channel water away from the exterior surface. In any event, in climates where rainfall is normal or above, drained EIFS systems are far superior to the original surface EIFS that were intended strictly to reduce energy costs.

Water Control Measures

In areas like the Southeast or Pacific Northwest where rain can be abundant, architects employ three approaches to prevent damage due from water accumulation. These are:

●       Draining configurations like drained EIFS with built-in moisture eliminating cavities.

●       Water-stored, as in reservoirs in brick, stone, masonry or concrete structures in which absorbed moisture dries through capillary action.

●       Perfect Barrier approach in which the surface cladding is “face sealed” or is built with an interior barrier known as a “concealed barrier.”

Contact ProCoat Systems of Denver

For more information about drained EIFS, energy saving, and other cladding options, phone the experts at ProCoat at 303.322.9009.

Or, visit their website at http://www.procoatsystems.com/ to learn more.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/effects-climate-eifs-exterior-finishes/

Why is Cultured Stone So Popular?

Home and business owners throughout the country are enjoying the beauty and convenience of cultured stone veneers without all the additional cost and inconvenience of natural stone products. Attractive, lighter weight, easy to install, durable, and even more environmentally sustainable, more homeowners and high-end builders are choosing cultured stone veneers for their upgraded construction. For existing homes, changing the facade from a standard wood siding to an elegant and attractive stone facing enhances the curb appeal immeasurably. For a new home, a high-quality cultured stone veneer adds significant appeal to even the simplest home design.

ProCoat Systems of Denver offers the finest cultured stone products from the two leading brands: Boral® and Coronado.

Affordability and Durability

Cultured stone veneers are more affordable and practical than natural stone products. They are lighter in weight and require less cutting and shaping than natural products need. These high quality and durable cultured stone materials are produced in a wide range of stone styles, textures, and colors to match any preference.

Reductions in freight costs, handling, waste, and the labor required to apply add up a significant reduction in cost compared to natural stone products.

Cultured stone products from ProCoat will last a lifetime and, when properly installed, will prevent moisture from accumulating between the material and the subsurface.

Beauty and Style

Cultured Stone® by Boral and Coronado Stone Products are the industry’s leading brands of manufactured stone veneers, brick, and tile products. With a broad range of styles like slate, limestone, ledgestone, brick, coral, cobblestone, fieldstone, river rock, or even stone that looks like wood, ProCoat can offer hundreds of colors and textures to make any home unique and more interesting. These materials are ideal for both interior and exterior cladding.

Durable and Weather Resistant

High-quality stone veneer products are resistant to rain, wind, snow, and cold weather. The materials require very little maintenance compared to wood siding, are easily more durable, and the colors will not fade.

Environmentally Positive

Produced with a high percentage of recycled materials, cultured stone products require less energy to produce, transport, and install than natural stone products, As a result, the net effect on the environment is far lower than with natural stone.

Call ProStone Systems of Denver

For more information regarding the significant advantages of cultured stone products, all the ProStone experts to discuss the superior qualities of cultured stone products. Call 308.322.9009 to learn more.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/cultured-stone-popular/

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/

In Search of the Best Retaining Walls

When creating a dramatic ambiance in your outdoor living spaces, Belgard® retaining walls from ProCoat of Denver can create borders and define areas that maximize the natural appearance of your landscape. The Belgard Tandem® Wall System, available in three styles and textures to provide the elegant look of natural stone you desire. More versatile and cost-efficient than natural stone, the Belgard system can create curved or straight freestanding barriers, retaining walls, and surrounds and facings for outdoor grill areas. With the classic look of natural stone, stylish Belgard products can turn unattractive vertical posts into dramatic columns.

Take a close look at the Belgard’s Tandem Wall Systems to see how they might bring an exciting new identity to your residential or business outdoor areas.

Belgard’s Three Wall System Styles

Tandem Wall Systems are available in three unique and beautiful styles to match your preference and create a rich element to either cover an unsightly structure or wall. The styles are Laffit, Lamina, and Melville which may be applied to either curved or straight walls and surfaces.

Each of the styles has been tested and meet ASTM C-1372 standards for Segmental Retaining Wall Units pertaining to cultured stone products and aggregates for strength and durability.

Technical Specifications

Each style is available in three different unit sizes: small, medium, large. The dimensions and weights are:

●       Small: 7”H x 13 3/16”W x 2 5/8”D covering approximately 0.64 square feet with a weight of about 18 lbs.

●       Medium: 7”H x 15 7/8”W x 2 5/8” D covering approximately 0.77 square feet with a weight of 22 lbs.

●       Large: 7” H x 18.5”W x 2 5/8”D covering approximately 0.9 square feet with a weight of 25 lbs.

Cap pieces are designed to create an attractive top layer to the wall or facing that match the color, style and size of the wall systems.

Easy to Apply

With the lightweight properties of the Belgard Tandem Wall Systems, the installer has a much simpler and quicker job to create the ambiance you are seeking. Properly arranged and cutting and shaping are virtually eliminated as the project progresses. Within hours, home and business owners will see their building transformed into a new and more elegant looking property, inviting to friends and passers-by.

Contact ProStone of Denver for More Information

Learn more about the advantages or creating retaining walls and other interesting features around the home or business with Belgard Tandem Wall Systems. Let the ProCoat experts explain the benefits and demonstrate how the Belgard Systems will transform a home or business into a showcase.

Visit the ProCoat website or call 303.322.9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/search-best-retaining-walls/

Advantages of Lightweight Cultured Stone

Beautiful and long-lasting Cultured Stone® for both interior or exterior surfaces brings style and charm to a residence without breaking the bank. Lightweight, durable, and easier to apply than quarried stone products, Cultured Stone veneers are about one-quarter the thickness of real stone at about one-third of the cost.

For aesthetic choices and styles, Boral® Cultured Stone from ProCoat Systems in Denver, offers 21 exciting textures with one-hundred colors to match about any style and preference.

Ease of Application

Cultured Stone is lighter in weight and thinner than quarried stone. Because of this, the cultured product is easier to cut, apply, and manipulate. Quarried stone is naturally far more variable in shape and texture and, therefore, requires considerable adjustment to achieve the same results. Application costs are lower and the time needed to install is reduced notably.

Versatility

Lightweight Cultured Stone veneers may be applied to nearly any properly prepared exterior or interior surface. Brighten the family room with a bold new stone fireplace surround. Add real warmth and elegance to a dining room or bathroom wall with a new and impressive stone veneer.

Alternatively, convert your tired patio into a charming outdoor living space with a beautiful stone veneer for an exterior wall our outdoor fireplace or firepit area.

Consider adding drama and real value to the exterior of your home with a luxurious stone entrance or front. The curb appeal of your home will undergo a dramatic change.

Style Selection

Lightweight Cultured Stone products from ProCoat Systems are meticulously produced with computer-aided designs and manufacturing techniques to provide the most consistency in color and texture. ProCoat’s strategic partner, Boral®, employs hundreds of different rubber molding shapes to reduce the frequency of duplications. Colors are ultraviolet-stabilized color additives to create variations while retaining natural shade contrast present in natural stone.

Some choices of Cultured Stone styles include:

●       Coral

●       Ledgestone

●       Dressed Fieldstone

●       European Castle Stone

●       Limestone

●       River Rock

●       Hewn Stone

●       Used Brick

●       And more

Sustainability

Lightweight Boral Cultured Stone from Procoat Systems is more ecologically positive than natural rock. The process of producing the Cultured Stone expends far less energy and is less destructive to the environment than quarrying natural rock. Also, many of the Cultured Stone products are manufactured using an average of 58% recycled materials.

Also, Boral Cultured Stone has earned:

●       GREENGUARD Gold air quality designation

●       National Green Building Standard for Home Innovation stone products

●       Contributor to Green Building Standards

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

For more information regarding lightweight Cultured Stone from ProCoat, visit the website at http://www.procoatsystems.com/cultured-stone-virtues-lighter-weight/ or phone 303.322.9009. The experts at ProCoat will be pleased to work with you.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/advantages-lightweight-cultured-stone/