Frequently Ask Questions
What is Elastomeric?
Elastomeric is a insulating and waterproofing coating with a thick rubber like thermal barrier. Elastomeric coatings look like regular paint and apply like paint but they are superior to conventional paints due to their very thick elastic dried film which has outstanding adhesion, flexibility, and water sealing characteristics. They are applied at 5 times the normal thickness of regular paint and not only do they bridge hairline cracks, but they also expand and contract with temperature variations helping to prevent future hairline cracks. While they prevent the penetration of wind driven rain, they also allow moisture vapor within the substrate to escape without blistering or peeling. The paint wall coating helps it to insulate and reduce sound transfer. The high resin content and mildewcides give you a coating that beautifies, is chalk resistant, offers superior mildew resistance and has very good color retention.
What are the Recommend Uses and Applications
An excellent choice for concrete and stucco structures which are prone to cracking such as stucco and wire lath construction, foam board and stucco, concrete block structures, poured in place and pre formed concrete.
Mobile Homes and RV's...The continuous rubber like film not only Insulates and Soundproofs but prevents water intrusion due to cracks in seams, prevents screws from backing out, flexes and stretches with temperature changes. It's like wrapping your home in a flexible rubber shield.
Long lasting, 8-10 years
Hides flaws...fills minor holes and hairline cracks
Alkaline resistant and efflorescence resistant
Breathable coating....allows moisture vapor to escape
Outstanding Dirt Resistance
When is it the best time to use a Elastomeric coating?
Painting stucco or cement plaster can be a tricky proposition. Usually 20 to 30 days after the finish coat has been applied. Alkaline conditions can be very devastating to many paints. Therefore, it is important to measure the pH of the surface of stucco, or any cemented material, before you paint it. pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. A pH of 7 indicates neutrality. pH readings decreasing from 7 indicate increasingly acidic conditions. Likewise, pH readings increasing up from 7 indicate increasingly alkaline conditions. When stucco is first applied, the surface is highly alkaline, usually at a pH of 12 or above. As the curing process proceeds, the surface of the stucco becomes more neutralized and the pH is lowered. The pH of properly cured cemented products is in the range of 8 to 10. Most manufacturers would recommend that traditional paint products not be applied to surfaces having greater alkalinity.
How much will this cost?
Typically 40% more than a standard acrylic paint job. the proper technique of application requires two coats to be sprayed and back rolled with the proper mil thickness and drying time per each coat. Most important DO NOT REDUCE (CUT) by adding water! Elastomeric is a coating NOT a paint, This will change the structure of the product and may cause improper elasticity and adhesion
What if my home is already painted or has a color coat?
Yes! Elastomeric can be applied to painted or color coated buildings. This product is designed to fix the problems of continuous cracking be allowing the coating to strech and contract during settling and temperature changes. Elastomeric coating adds to the equtiy of your home and eliminates future hair line cracking.
* How long has the contractor been in business? There can be a high turnover rate in the painting industry. Be sure to hire someone who has been operating for at least two to three years.
* Are employees experienced painters? Make sure the company hires skilled workers. Ask what training or qualifications they have.
* Does the contractor have insurance? It is absolutely critical that they have the necessary insurance. A reputable, licensed painting contractor will have coverage. Remember, it protects him and any workers he may have on site, as well as you.
* What kind of preparation work does the painting contractor do? A cheaper job will skimp on the prep work to cut corners. A good contractor will take the time to do everything the way it should be done. The workmanship will show in the end, good or bad.
* Can they provide a list of references? Once you have the references in hand, call them.
* Can the painting contractor make recommendations on what materials will work best for your project? A professional keeps up-to-date on the latest products and techniques, makes suggestions for colors and finishes, and is knowledgeable about the latest trends. Experience counts.
* Make sure they put everything in writing. A professional provides customers with written contracts and specifications.
* Will they offer a maintenance program? Some will, it's worth asking.
* How much do they charge? Getting the lowest price should not be your first consideration. You want to get someone with skill, experience, insurance, awareness of safety issues and good workers. That will not likely be the guy with the lowest bid. It doesn't need to be the highest bid either. Just be sure not to hire on price alone. Look at the whole picture. Painters operate on very tight profit margins. Some homeowners hire college students and are happy with the work. If the price seems too good to be true, however, it probably is.
Painting is one of the most popular home improvement projects you can undertake, but it can be more difficult than you might think. Whether you're planning an interior or exterior painting project, hiring a painting contractor will save a lot of time and energy in the long run.
lnk