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/

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/

Retaining Walls Made Right

Retaining walls generally perform a utilitarian function. These are often intended to create a solid partition between two levels of landscape, eliminating slopes and contours that can be difficult to manage and limit flat, usable space.

When the right materials and design are employed, a retaining wall can be an attractive element of any landscape.

Considerations for Designing the Best Retaining Wall

Whether replacing an existing or failing structure or creating a new one, a proper retaining wall begins with a solid design.

Usually, a retaining wall is holding back a vertical face of soil that can slide or cave in if not properly retained. The first and most crucial issue is strength and durability. Walls that are not strong enough to resist the lateral earth pressure behind the wall may eventually collapse or slide.

In many states, the design of a new stone or masonry retaining wall exceeding four feet should be reviewed by a licensed professional design engineer to assess the wall's long-term integrity. 

Other factors to be considered when constructing a retaining wall are:

• Required height of the wall
• Groundwater conditions and drainage
• Site accessibility
• Building codes
• Aesthetics

With the proper design and the best materials, a beautiful retaining wall not only optimizes the useable area but can be a long-lasting and beautiful accent to the landscape.

Belgard® Retaining Walls from ProCoat Systems

To add interest and beauty to your backyard landscape or to enhance the curb appeal of your property, an attractive, well designed retaining wall can make the difference. Belgarde, a world-class producer of pavers, retaining wall products, and other hardscape materials, produces the highest quality of freestanding and retaining wall blocks for home and business landscapes. Belgarde materials are stable, long lasting, and beautiful, available in a broad range of styles to complement surrounding structures and landscape features.

Belgarde offers a product selection of eleven different retaining wall block designs to match just about any setting. These sturdy options range from coarse to smooth surfaces in several different colors, shapes, and sizes.

To finish the job, Belgarde and ProCoat also provide the matching edges and caps.

Contact ProCoat Systems of Colorado and Utah

ProCoat Systems is a premier supplier of world-class coatings, hardscape materials, waterproofing, and air barrier systems. The company has been a supplier to the construction and remodeling industries in the Rocky Mountain region for nearly thirty-five years.

For more information regarding materials and construction of the highest quality retaining walls, contact ProCoat. The professionals at ProCoat will be pleased to help.

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

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

The Versatility of Beautiful Stone Veneer

Stone veneer can be a beautiful, long-lasting and stylish addition to any home or business interior or exterior. By providing texture, atmosphere, and refinement to any room or exterior structure, manufactured stone veneers are a high-quality cladding for fireplace surrounds, interior walls, exterior columns and wainscoting, and other elements.

Homeowners add curb appeal and value to their homes by installing stone veneer siding. Businesses intensify their presence and improve customer perception by upgrading exterior elements of their building with top quality stone veneer cladding.

What Types of Stone Veneers are Available?

ProCoat Systems of Denver, a supplier of high-quality cladding materials to the construction and remodeling industry in the Rocky Mountain region, offers a broad spectrum of stone veneer products for new construction or remodel projects.

Top brands like Cultured Stone® Veneer and ProStone® by Boral, Coronado, and RealStone Systems offer consumers an almost infinite number of textures, colors, stone types, and patterns to match their taste and budget. Each product is as durable and easier to apply than natural stone since these require less cutting, fitting, and shaping and therefore result in less waste. These products are highly durable and easily meet all building codes.

Quality stone veneers are perfect for:

• Exterior and interior fireplaces
• Stone walls and facades
• Commercial retail and entertainment areas
• Stone showers
• Accent walls
• Pool spillovers and surrounding walls
• Water features

Application of Stone Veneers and Preventing Water Intrusion

Accumulated moisture can be a threat to the life of any stone installation.However, when properly applied, stone veneer products are effective in preventing water intrusion. The stone itself does not absorb moisture, but the installation must include measures to prevent water from accumulating behind the exterior veneer. This usually involves three areas of attention. They are:

• Prevent moisture from entering at seams where the veneer meets doors, windows, gates, etc. Special attention to eliminating gaps should be applied to these locations.
• Extra flashing is important at joints, corners, and bends.
• Create weep holes for accumulated moisture, if present,  to escape

Quality stone veneers are rugged and longlasting of properly applied.

Stone veneer applications can alter the ambiance of an interior space or dramatically highlight the positive features of an exterior. Choosing the right stone veneer for your intended feature depends on the mood you are attempting to project. Will your fireplace surround deliver the comforting lodge-like feel you envision? Will the new stone veneer in the bathroom create the spa-like elegance of your dreams. Will the new exterior wall project rustic informality or sophisticated grace?

Contact ProCoat Systems

For more information regarding the selection and application of stone veneers for interior or exterior use, contact ProCoat in Denver and the Rocky Mountain Region.

Visit their website for ideas. Or phone the ProCoat professionals at (303)-322-9009.

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