What are STO Stucco Systems?

STO Corp has been an innovator of many types of construction exteriors. Rather than producing a single purpose coating to clad the exterior surface of a building, STO manufactures systems consisting of materials that provide sophisticated insulation and moisture barriers, as well. STO Stucco System provides the ultimate in appearance, energy efficiency, ease of application, and moisture resistance. The coating and finish are integrated with other high-performance layers to create just the right combination of insulation,  flexibility, and endurance.

How are the STO Stucco Systems Installed?

The key to permanence among wall claddings is the ability to resist moisture accumulation and the effects of weather. STO’s Powerwall® Stucco Systems have been scientifically developed for low maintenance, durability, and energy efficiency. Consisting of a combination of layers of different materials, each with a particular purpose, the Stucco Systems protect the interior from moisture accumulation and provide a highly efficient energy barrier.

Placed against the interior substrate material. The STO Stucco System consists of the following layers of materials:

●      Air and Moisture Barrier

●      Continuous Insulation

●      Drainage Mat and Cavity

●      Powerwall Stucco

●      Texture Surface

Whether the system is installed from the outside in or inside outward makes no difference. The sequence of the application of the material can be reversed.

When finished, your exterior will look just like regular stucco. But this system performs far better than mere surface materials. You will experience lower energy bills,  a more durable exterior, and plenty of compliments on your beautiful stucco exterior.

Contact ProCoat in Denver

ProCoat Systems is a strategic partner to STO Corp for EIFS and other exterior claddings. Both companies are committed to super efficiency while providing the most beautiful surface available for outdoor use.

For questions about STO Stucco Systems, contact the ProCoat representatives at 303.322.9009.

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

Design your natural, stone veneer fireplace to complement your home.

Your natural stone veneer fireplace might be in the great room where your family gathers, or it might be in the formal living room where you entertain friends. Either way it’s sure to be the focal point of the room. So, it’s important that your new fireplace complement your decor. How to do that? Begin by answering some basic questions and then move on to design details.

Basic fireplace design questions

Ask yourself where do you want the fireplace to go? Does the corner you’ve chosen have enough space? Is it the optimal site for best fireplace function and reasonably priced installation?  Will the fireplace design suit your family for the life of the house? Will it still work with a style change and new furniture?

The uncomplicated design option

Now that you’ve got the basics under control the fireplace design fun can begin! One effortless way to design your fireplace is to choose a fireplace stone that either complements or contrasts with the overall tone of the room. Consider a room done in warm earth shades with fireplace stones picked out in the same tawny browns, desert sand and burnt orange colors. Or consider a room painted in bold shades of red. A fireplace built with contrasting, charcoal grey stones will really stand out.

More complicated design options

More complicated design options allow your fireplace design become an extension of the room style.  Here are four styles to consider.

Casual – For family rooms and great rooms a floor to ceiling fireplace with rough cut, or hand chopped stones in a random pattern works well. With room for a t.v and a hearth for extra seating you’re set!

Country – Dry stacked, rough- hewn, granite veneer in shades of brown or grey compliments a farmhouse or country lodge look.

Classic – For a traditional look in a formal living room, or bedroom think about a pale granite, or ashy limestone veneer with a smooth texture.

Contemporary – This is the time to use square and rectangular brick that echoes door and windows shapes. Experiment with veneer colors that are out of the ordinary like sleek blacks and opal greens to achieve a modern style.

Whether you’re creating a simple fireplace design or something more complicated it’s easy with our help, and with natural stone veneer choices in unlimited types, textures, patterns and colors

ProCoat – Denver 303 322-9009, Salt Lake City 801 410-4345

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/design-natural-stone-veneer-fireplace-complement-home/

What is Insulation Stucco?

What is Insulation Stucco?

Stucco itself is not a significantly effective insulating material. As a mixture of cement, lime, and silica applied in thick layers over a substrate, the material does create a concrete cladding over the exterior. This outer shell tends to require less energy to heat and cool the building compared to some other single layer materials.

Typical stucco does retard external noise transmission, an important attribute for those living near noisy freeways and other busy areas. 

But usually, when the term “insulation stucco” is used, the reference is to a more sophisticated building-cladding strategy known as EIFS, or Exterior Insulation and Finish System. Simply put, EIFS is a scientifically designed combination of materials layered to prevent moisture accumulation and impede the loss of energy. EIFS is a superior wall cladding designed to reduce energy loss, enhance weather resistance, and can provide a beautiful stucco exterior.

What Makes Up Stucco Systems Cladding?

Stucco Systems by STO Corp, a strategic partner of ProCoat Systems of Denver is a combination of several compatible barrier layers beneath an exterior coat of stucco.

From the inside out, the STO Stucco System’s high-performance layers are designed to work together to form a protective barrier that eliminates moisture accumulation and reduces the total energy required to heat and cool the building.

Directly applied to the interior substrate, the first layer is an air and moisture barrier that limits moisture from entering the system. Second is a patented continuous insulation system with high R-value to prevent thermal bridging. The next section is a drainage mat and cavity that are designed to block moisture from entering and keeping it from accumulating within the wall system. The gap promotes rapid drainage away from the wall system.

The outer layer is the Powerwall stucco material that supplies additional thermal protection. A broad spectrum of premium finishes, coatings, and textures are designed to protect the stucco layer to keep it beautiful and functional for decades.

The STO Stucco System is easier to apply than many other exterior claddings. The layers are pre-manufactured and can be installed from either the exterior or the interior. The result is like coating your building in a warm blanket.

Contact ProCoat Systems

For more information about creating an energy efficient stucco cladding, phone the experts at ProCoat Systems of Denver. They will be happy to discuss the economics and practical aspects of surrounding your building in these energy saving materials.

Phone ProCoat Systems at 303.322.9009.

EIFS vs. Metal Cladding: What You Need to Know

EIFS vs. Metal Cladding: What You Need to Know

When choosing between a metal or EIFS cladding for any building, there are several factors to consider. Overall appearance, resistance to damage from weather, energy efficiency, and ease of installation should be primary considerations.

Incorporate these decision points choosing between metal or EIFS, an Exterior Insulation and Finish System.

What Is EIFS Construction?

EIFS is recognized as the most energy-efficient construction cladding for reducing long-term operating expenses. An EIFS building is sealed with specially designed layers of barrier materials to provide insulation and moisture resistance. The leading EIFS method is a scientifically designed system developed by STO Corp that engulfs the building much like an enormous thermal blanket.

And, any one of variety of attractive exterior claddings may be used to cover the insulating EIFS material.

Appearance

Metal cladding alone can be an attractive alternative to other external options. However, EIFS construction allows for a choice of exterior cladding options that have the appearance of stucco, brick, stone, or limestone to match surrounding buildings or the owner's preferences. Available in nearly unlimited colors with many decorative architectural features, EIFS cladding can result in the building of your dreams in every respect.

Resistance to Damage

Metal siding eventually succumbs to damage. Hail and physical impact from equipment and flying objects eventually take their toll on a metal-sided building and the accumulated effects can become obvious in very few years. EIFS claddings are far more durable and less likely to show signs of external damage.

Insulating Capability

In the category of insulation capability and energy savings, EIFS cladding stands as the reigning champion. With several layers of material integrated to diminish any loss of energy, the building will remain warm in the winter and cool in the summer at a much lower operating costs than with other construction types.

Metal cladding, on the other hand, is known to conduct, rather than restrict, heat and energy.

Ease of Installation

EIFS systems, incorporating all of the insulation plus moisture and air resistant layers, are manufactured by STO as an all-inclusive system. Metal sidings require special sizing and cutting using specially designed blades to achieve the right-sized pieces. Usually additional insulation must be added before the metal cladding is applied.

Contact ProCoat of Denver

ProCoat is a supplier for the innovative products from STO Corp, the worldwide leader in EIFS exterior cladding. For more information about EIFS and other innovative cladding concepts, contact the experts at ProCoat at 308.322.9009.

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.

EIFS Coating Textures: What Are My Choices?

Installing EIFS to your home or business is not just about creating a well-insulated, highly energy efficient cladding to the exterior. Once installed, the protective EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) can be coated with a broad range of beautiful and practical finishes from Sto Corp, the recognized leader in integrated exterior wall systems. Whether matching your personal taste, “standing out”, or coordinating with the surrounding environment is the objective, Sto coatings enhance the effectiveness of the EIFS while creating an almost unlimited number of options to project individual creativity.

Exterior coatings by Sto can replicate virtually any finish. Whether the preference is stucco, granite, brick, limestone or another covering style, ProCoat will provide Sto’s complete selection of possibilities.

Standard Finishes

ProCoat finishes from Sto are not only about color. The texture is the characteristic that imparts the distinctive appearance to any structure. Available in an unlimited number of colors and shades, Sto’s standard marble aggregate coating can be applied in a variety of textures. The material, bound with 100% acrylic polymers, can be applied to create a fine-grain, swirl, or traditional stucco freeform appearance.

Specialty Finishes

ProCoat can provide several other options beyond Sto’s stucco-type finishes. These specialty coatings allow plenty of options for renewing the overall look of any home or building.

·        Stolit® Milano

Excellent finish for interiors as well as exteriors, Stolit Milano is a fine-grained, almost smooth finish that applies easily in only two or three coats. The coating is available in a range of colors and is mildew-resistant.

·        Limestone Finish

Easy to apply, Sto’s Limestone coating is lightweight and provides a natural stone look and feel without the expense o the real thing. The material can be applied to a variety of substrates and adds a look of elegance and permanence to any structure.

·        Granitex™

To add a truly solid look to any building, Granitex is an acrylic based coating developed by Sto. The material is applied by spray and provides a coarse, natural stone texture. Granitex is available in a range of natural colors.

·        Decocoat™

Decocoat is a decorative covering that can be applied to masonry, plaster or drywall interiors and exteriors. The coating is available in over 30 shades and is composed of fine aggregate material bound in acrylic.

·        Granite Moab

With the texture of stone aggregate but with reflective material, Sto Granite is available in six different textures. To create an interesting and totally unique he material is trowel-applied.

·        Stotique™Tuscan

Stotique is a smooth, yet mottled finish that imparts an Old Europe look to any building..

·        Brick

A truly creative option, Sto Brick replicates a true brick finish without the expense. In a two step process using stencils, any building’s exterior can be transformed into a brick stately and colonial look.

Contact ProCoat

For more information about EIFS and the full range of cladding possibilities, contact the professionals at ProCoat. Their experts can review all of the options to identify the best solution for any home or building.

Call ProCoat at 303.322.9009.

Exterior Veneer That Will Inspire and Awe

To make your home truly stand out and bolster its curb appeal, consider a new high-quality, low-maintenance exterior stone veneer to cover that tired wood or stucco siding. Alternatively, consider creating a more inviting outdoor area for entertaining by adding stone veneer wainscoting or other features to the rear of the house.

Economical and easy to apply, the application of a high-quality exterior veneer to just about any surface can transform your home into an elegant and inspiring living space.

Alternatively, if your place of business could use some dressing up to project a classier image, stone veneer additions from ProCoat of Denver can be the best possible solution to renew an uninteresting building.

Selecting the Right Stone Veneer

ProCoat of Denver offers a broad selection of the finest cultured stone veneer products available.  Partnering with Boral®, maker of the world’s most elegant stone veneer products, ProCoat offers products for virtually every exterior application. Whether for siding, wainscoting, doorway arch, columns, walls, outdoor fireplaces, or accents, ProCoat exterior veneers are an economical solution that can render a transformation that is genuinely magical.

For homeowners seeking to upgrade the appearance and add warmth and character to the homes, high-quality cultured stone veneer makes sense. Stone veneer is long-lasting, maintaining its original appearance for decades. The product can add significant value to any home by upgrading the overall appearance and covering some fading features of the existing siding.

Cultured stone veneers require little maintenance compared to other siding materials.

Boral Style Options

Versetta Stone® is a mortarless stone veneer panel that imparts the beauty and style of traditional masonry without the cost and labor. This beautiful material is perfect for siding and other outdoor features such as columns, walls, and posts. Versetta comes in Ledgestone and Tight-Cut styles with colors and textures ranging from Graphite and Terra Rosa to light gray Mission Point and multi-hued Plum Creek.

ProStone® by Boral offers the natural look of real stone without the cost. ProStone offers several stone styles including rounded River Rock, irregular FieldStone, horizontal Ledgestone, and perpendicularly patterned and versatile Tuscan Cobble. Each style comes in a choice of 33 different color blends to match any particular preference.

Warranty

Boral Stone products come with a 50-year transferable warranty. This assurance demonstrates the manufacturer’s fullest confidence that their cultured stone veneer can withstand continual sunlight, rain, snow, and high winds. The product is also fire-proof.  

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

To learn more about these high-quality, easy-to-install stone veneers, contact ProCoat Systems at 303.322.9009. The experts at ProCoat will be pleased to provide more information about these products and their installation.