Traditional Stucco Claddings and Water Management

Stucco buildings have been around for centuries. Many scientists believe that even the pyramids of Egypt were coated in a white stucco substance made from volcanic ash in the beginning. Though some material has endured over 1000 years, attractive and durable stucco gained substantial prominence in Europe and North America with the development of Portland cement as a binding ingredient in 1843. After that time, stucco coatings gained significant popularity and became a cladding of choice during the first part of the twentieth century.

In addition to stucco’s timeless, attractive appearance, the cladding offers excellent durability with very limited upkeep. Builders of correctly applied stucco surfaces employ both drainage and storage strategies to eliminate the accumulation of moisture in buildings. Minimizing moisture absorption while providing adequate storage beneath to drain or dry is the key to a long-lasting cladding.  

How Does Stucco Keep the Building from Experiencing Moisture Problems? 

In some climates, where moisture levels are minimal and low humidity is the norm, builders do not worry much about moisture accumulation. However, in many parts of the country, precipitation levels can be high, particularly during certain seasons, and special precautions are necessary to prevent moisture damage within any construction.

For masonry walls, a Portland cement-based stucco incorporates vapor permeable paints to resist penetration of rainwater and allow the moisture to dry externally. When water does penetrate the surface, the moisture that enters will reach the interior masonry surfaces and be stored there until it eventually dries.

With wood-framed or steel stud walls sheathed in gypsum or plywood boards, the stucco exterior surface can be separated from the sheathing with a gap or cavity. To accomplish this, building paper and metal lath is placed over the gypsum or plywood subsurface before the stucco is applied. In a short time, the building papers absorb moisture, crinkle, and shrink, thereby creating a perfect drainage gap between the stucco exterior and the interior surface. As a result, moisture that does penetrate the stucco surface reaches the space and eventually drains out of the wall through weep screeds or flashing system. Adequately installed weep screeds also prevent moisture from wicking up into the outside walls while providing continuous drainage.  

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver, Salt Lake City or Ft. Collins

ProCoat Systems specialists are experts in the installation, design, and management of all types of claddings.

To understand more about the elimination of moisture problems in stucco and other claddings, contact ProCoat for more information.

This article was previously pulished at https://www.procoatsystems.com/stucco/traditional-stucco-claddings-water-management

Advantages of Cultured Stone Over Natural Stone Veneers

Increasingly, Cultured Stone® by Boral is the first choice of home and business owners looking for a beautiful and economical cladding for interior or exterior walls, fireplaces, and vertical columns.

Cultured Stone is durable and versatile, perfect for nearly any application.   Lighter weight and easier to install that natural stone products, cultured stone requires less cutting and shaping, thereby resulting in easier installation and less waste.

In the Rocky Mountain region, Boral’s Cultured Stone is sold and marketed by ProStone Systems of Denver and Salt Lake City.  

Colors and Textures of Cultured Stone

To replicate the natural textures of natural stone, Boral production engineers cast molds of Cultured Stone from carefully selected real stone pieces. A broad range of color selections are created from Portland Cement, natural aggregates, and iron oxide pigments to create a perfect match for natural stone veneers. Boral produces Cultured Stone uses thousands of different molds to eliminate the possibility of duplication in a single lot. Even units produced in the same mold vary in color and highlights.   Boral manufactures Cultured Stone in 100 texture and color combinations.  

Application of Cultured Stone

Properly applied, Cultured Stone, available from ProCoat in Denver, meets all applicable building code requirements. Details of code compliance are listed within the instructions for the product installation.   Cultured Stone should be applied over well-cleaned and structurally sound substrates of wood, concrete, wallboard, brick, or metal and secured with specified Portland Cement mortar.   For best results, installation should comply precisely to the product instructions.  

Durability of Cultured Stone

Boral offers a 50-year warranty with properly installed of Cultured Stone. The material is resistant to rain, wind, and snow and will retain the original color much like natural stone. The only suggested maintenance is an occasional washing to remove dust and dirt to preserve the original beauty.  

Affordability

Cultured Stone from Boral, available through ProCoat Systems, is easier to install and generates virtually no waste compared to natural stone and stone veneers. Although there is far less cutting and shaping required with Cultured Stone, standard cutting tools like masonry or circular saws are appropriate when needed.  

Call ProCoat Systems of Denver

As a partner to the world’s most sophisticated cladding manufacturers, ProCoat Systems supplies builders, remodelers, and installer with long-lasting and beautiful products for new construction and remodel projects.

For information regarding the technical aspects and installation of Cultured Stone by Boral, call the ProCoat Building Supply Specialists.

This article was previously published at https://www.procoatsystems.com/cultured-stone/advantages-cultured-stone-natural-stone-veneers

10 Steps for the Perfect EIFS Application

EIFS, Exterior Insulation and Finish System, is a cladding technique designed to protect and insulate buildings while reducing energy costs. Though a very specific layering process, starting inside the building and extending to the outer wall, the EIFS process insulates while preventing moisture build-up within the system.

A ProCoat partner, Sto Corporation, is the industry leader in the development of EIFS treatment. Introducing StoTherm® in 1963, Sto has continued to perfect their EIFS process and has developed a next generation system named StoTherm EIFS NExT that adds a unified layer to the traditional system.

How Are EIFS Applied?

There are several steps to creating a proper EIFS application. Before beginning, make sure all components and scaffolding are on hand and all surfaces are prepared.  

Substrates

StoTherm EIFS can be installed over the glass-mat gypsum sheathing, wood-based sheathing, plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), masonry, plaster, concrete or stucco. The key element of EIFS is to ensure there is no moisture accumulation not contaminants within the systems. A waterproof air barrier should be applied.   Damaged sheathing should be replaced.

 1.Attachments Specially designed adhesives are used to fasten all elements in the EIFS structure. Metal fasteners should not be used since the conductivity of the metal contradicts the process of reducing energy.

 2. Backwrapping with Reinforcing Mesh A reinforcing mesh is attached to the substrate with the adhesive.The mesh will, in fact, be holding the insulation board that will comes next by folding over or “backwrapping” around the edges of the board.

3. Preparing the Insulation or EPS Board While the minimum effective thickness of the insulation board is ¾-inch, most codes will allow up to 4 inches. When applying the boards, try to eliminate any gaps or thermal breaks between each piece. The insulation boards should be cut with a knife using a T-square to guide the cut.

4. Adhesive Application Apply the adhesive to the EPS with a notched trowel. The “ribbons” or lines of adhesive should run parallel to the long dimension of the board.

 5. Installing the Insulation Boards Place the boards so there is no space between them to create breaks. After installation, check for any breaks or spaces. If there are any, even the width of a credit card, they must be filled with an insulating material.

 6. Rasping Rasp the entire insulation board surface, not just the joints, with sandpaper to ensure they are level and smooth.

 7. Base Coat and Mesh Application Apply a prescribed base coat to prevent sunlight from affecting the insulation board surface. Several Sto-approved base coat products are acceptable. The mesh is then embedded until it is no longer visible through the base coat. If the mesh does show through, more base coat is necessary to cover it completely. Allow the base coat to dry. Primer may be used here for complete protection.

 8. Finish Coating Apply the finish coat directly over the base coat in continuous application.

 9. Floating or Spraying Textures Texture can be applied to the outer surface with various products and application methods. Sto offers stucco, limestone, various other textures to cover the EIFS.

 10. Sealant The final protective step is the application of a sealant to any joints where the EPS boards may meet another surface like a doorframe or meter box. The sealant acts as a shock absorber between the two surfaces, stretching as the surfaces move.


For more information regarding EIFS, contact the experts at ProCoat Systems.


 This article was originally posted at : https://www.procoatsystems.com/eifs/10-steps-perfect-eifs-application

Protect Your Concrete Decking with a Waterproofing Application

Concrete provides a reliable, durable surface for many applications. Concrete walls, parking surfaces, and decking can last for decades if properly designed and maintained with appropriate care and attention. However, once a concrete surface is compromised, due to cracking, damage, or some imperfection, moisture and weather can play a corrosive role in reducing the useful life of the material. Eventually, the steel reinforcement can be exposed by invasive water, chlorides, chemicals, and other substances and continual break-up will occur. The surface becomes useless and will need to be replaced.

How to Prevent Water Damage to Concrete Surfaces

To prevent concrete corrosion from water and other substances, ProCoat Systems of Denver recommends treating the concrete surface with products designed to protect. Depending on the planned use of the surface, from vehicle traffic or other, or whether the material is in the installation stage or being retreated, ProCoat offers a range of products from world-class suppliers. Specially formulated for foundation walls, plaza decks, horizontal parking decks, planters, and balcony decks, products and strategies include:

●        Waterproofing systems

●        Drainage systems

●        Water management systems

These systems may involve one or more of the following:

●        Sheet membrane

●        Fluid-applied membranes

●        Rubber waterproofing

●        Bentonite clay

●        Blindside waterproofing

●        EPDM rubber

●        Elastomeric urethane

●        Surface applied waterproofing

Each product has a particular purpose and strength. Some locations may use a combination of these strategies and products to maximize waterproofing and the useful life of the surfaces. Choosing the best option for any surface should involve expert input.

Traffic Surface Treatments

Possibly the most rigorous punishment a concrete surface must withstand is vehicle traffic. Busy parking garage decks, for example, may accommodate thousands of cars and trucks per day. And, they are frequently exposed to rain, snow, and other corrosive influences. Special care must be given to the original design of these structures, incorporating all of the waterproofing and drainage strategies available.  Also, periodic reapplication of waterproofing products must be part of the continuing long-term maintenance plan.

Contact ProCoat Systems

ProCoat Systems provides high-quality claddings and coatings to the construction industry in the Colorado/Utah Rocky Mountain region. Besides being the experts in stone, brick, and other materials for interior and exterior use, ProCoat professionals understand how to protect materials to make them remain looking great and lasting longer. Working with industry leaders like BASF, Pecora, and Westcoat, ProCoat offers the best materials for any waterproofing job.

For more information about protecting concrete surfaces, call ProCoat Systems at (303)-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/protect-concrete-decking-waterproofing-application/

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/

Sto Stucco Systems Offer More Than a Beautiful Exterior

Sto is the leading developer and producer of the highest quality cladding systems designed to protect buildings from the elements, eliminate moisture, preserve energy, and look great. And, StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems are easier to apply than standard stucco and are presented in a wide range of colors and textures for aesthetic balance.

What are Sto Stucco Systems?

When home or business owners choose Sto to clad a new or existing structure, they are targeting beauty, protection, durability, and energy efficiency. Sto Stucco Systems consist of advanced integrated components, including state-of-the-art patented layers that work in tandem to provide maximum long-term protection. These products include:

●      StoGuard®- A fluid-applied air and moisture barrier

●      Sto DrainScreen™- A drainage mat that prevents moisture penetration

●      StoPowerwall ExtraSeal™- Extra protection for use on concrete and concrete masonry units.

●      StoPowerwall®- A high-performance Portland cement-based stucco exterior finish with special components to provide the initial continuous air and moisture barrier.

How Do Sto Stucco Systems Work?

Sto products were scientifically designed over decades to work in harmony to provide maximum protection while reducing energy costs substantially. And, the colors and textures available furnish a clean and beautiful appearance that truly enhances any structure’s market value and curb appeal.

But what is the secret to StoPowerwall Stucco System’s effectiveness?

Working as a system, the Sto Systems begins on the inside with the StoGuard air and moisture barrier with the Drain Screen and Type 4 Insulation. With Sto’s outer coating of StoPowerwall stucco and Sto textured finishes, the interior of the building is fully protected from penetration by moisture and air in any season.

The Sto cladding systems meet all local and international building code requirements and are designed to perform in any climate.

Sto’s primary distributor partner in the Rocky Mountain region of Colorado and Utah is ProCoat Systems of Denver and Salt Lake City.

Contact ProCoat Systems

ProCoat Systems is a leading dealer of world class cladding products in the Rocky Mountain region. The professionals at ProCoat work closely with contractors and remodelers to devise and install the right products for interior and exterior use in construction. The experts at ProCoat are experienced in advising and collaborating on any large or small projects.

For ideas regarding Sto Stucco Systems and energy efficiency or other stone or masonry projects, visit the ProCoat Systems website to learn more.

And, to find answers to your questions about these products, phone the experts at ProCoat in Denver at 303.322.9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/sto-stucco-systems-offer-beautiful-exterior/

Advantages of RealStone Natural Stone Veneer

For both interior and exterior fireplaces and wall coverings, no other material offers the beauty, elegance, and durability of stone. While raw natural stone requires the skills of an experienced stone mason, RealStone Systems™ forges products from true natural stone that are easier to apply, require no shaping, and eliminate waste.

RealStone Systems, a partner of ProCoat Systems in Denver, offers an extensive choice of high quality natural stone  products to the construction and remodeling industries. These products come in a rich variety of colors, tones, and textures to match any style preference.

The RealStone Systems website also provides a unique Visualizer Tool to help remodelers and other clients “see” the aesthetic effect of a variety of combinations of wall claddings and styles.

How is RealStone Unique?

RealStone is a natural stone product sourced from stone quarries. The artisans at RealStone Systems source real quartz, marble, granite, sandstone, slate, travertine, and other natural stone materials to craft high-quality wall and flooring panels, tiles, and accessories. Shaping the natural stone materials into panels creates a material that is easier to apply and generates virtually no waste.

Compare applying individual RealStone natural stone veneer panels to the process of receiving a load of raw stone, shaping and sculpting each piece for application, and then hauling away the considerable waste.

Uses for Real Stone Veneers

In homes and businesses, whether for new construction or remodeling, natural stone veneer is playing an ever-growing role in creating a delightfully stunning décor. Used for  cladding an accent wall to add comfort to a family room, adding elegance and refinement to a dining room, or infusing spa-like gentility into a bathroom, natural stone veneers make for brilliant and affordable upgrades.

Cladding an old fireplace surround with new and beautiful Estate Stone or Ledgestone Natural Stone veneer will bring a cozy, yet sensational aura to a room.

What Styles are Available?

RealStone is crafted into a variety of styles, colors, and textures. For a true natural stone wall covering, some of the choices include:

●      Estate Stone Panels: Berkshire Buff, Bristol Black, Greystone Gold, Somerset Sage

●      Collection Panels: Ledgestone, Accentstone, Carbon Honed, Latte Honed, Latte Ledgestone, Latte Accent stone, Mocha Birch Honed or Ledgestone, Nero Honed or Ledgestone,  Pewter Honed and Ledgestone, Roman Beige Honed, and White Birch Honed or Ledgestone.

●      Ledgestone Panels: Charcoal and Mountain Rust

●      Accent stone Panels: New York Blue, Sierra, Terracotta, and Charcoal

●      Thinstone Panels: Thin Silver Alabaster Shadowstone, Thin Arctic White

●      And more

Contact ProCoat Systems

For more information regarding RealStone natural stone veneers and hardscape materials, call ProCoat Systems, experienced professionals serving the Colorado and Utah Rocky Mountain region.

Check out the ProCoat website for plenty of new construction and remodeling ideas.

For more information regarding RealStone Systems, call the experts at ProCoat at 1-303-322-9009.

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