STUC-O-FLEX Elastomeric Acrylic Finish is a blend of 100% pure acrylic polymers, specialty aggregates comprised of calcium marble with a unique cubic geometry, the highest quality liquid colorants and other proprietary ingredients. The industry’s highest levels of polymer insure “Extreme Crack Bridging” abilities in a durable, protective membrane that resists fading, dirt pick-up and lasts for decades.
Stucco and concrete are inherently susceptible to cracks – they always do. While STUC-O-FLEX can’t stop the concrete or cement stucco from cracking, the stretchability in this finish will cover, seal and bridge those voids.
As a prime example – the Bergeman Group, an engineering firm specializing in building forensics and repair specified STUC-O-FLEX to resolve problems on Hawaii’s most exclusive resort; the “Wailea Beach Villas” in Maui. Due to the islands high temperatures, intense UV exposure, wind-driven rains, ocean salt spray and extreme humidity, only the highest quality finishes could be considered.
Unsightly cracks began to appear in the stucco after only a few years. These cracks, in turn were allowing water penetration into the buildings causing damage to interior walls. To complicate matters, this is a very difficult project logistically, with the property being so large, many five and six story building, lush vegetation everywhere, all the while being occupied by families on vacation. This project demanded only the most competent and qualified sub-contractors were to be considered for this retrofit. The work was ultimately awarded to one of Hawaii’s best – Eko Painting & Concrete Restoration, Inc based in Honolulu.
With six define crews, Eko started by rigging the buildings with swing stag and scaffolding. The next group power-washed the walls followed by an Elastomeric Joint Compound to patch and fill the widest of cracks. Masking and protection was installed, before the primer (PrimeSeal) was applied. New sealants were also installed at interface areas to all adjacent materials. With project scheduling a paramount consideration, STUC-O-FLEX was spray applied using a rotor-stator delivery system. Soon as the finish was installed, another crew immediately removed the masking and protection to assure clean/sharp transition lines.
As the project progresses on to phase III, the STUC-O-FLEX has been hugely successfully in bridging cracks and providing a bright new look for this beautiful resort property. David Thompson, Director at Wailea Beach Villas, said, “The project is ahead of schedule and on budget, we haven’t experienced any cracks or leaks. It looks beautiful and we couldn’t be happier.” In fact, the owners are considering the possibility of refinishing another resort property with the same STUC-O-FLEX materials.
Charles Hunter, project manager for Eko Painting indicated 95% of their work involves finishes and coatings. “With our business typical latex products are so common” we are very intrigued at the potential with STUC-O-FLEX to enhance our portfolio offering clients this breathable elastomeric finish for both new construction and repair & retrofit projects. The performance of this material whether spray or trowel applied is exceptional at hiding and bridge hairline cracks in stucco, concrete, masonry and CMU. These characteristics allow us to offer clients a premium product option over traditional paints and finishes.
“Although we have yet to actively sell our customers on STUC-O-FLEX just yet, the product is very well behaved, our guys like the workability and ease of application. We’ve quickly become quite accomplished at installing this material. The colors are consistent pail to pail; it sprays on perfectly and dries to a beautiful uniform appearance. The idea of our customers to realize a finished project that looks brand new, resolves cracking issues, water penetration problems and ongoing maintenance concerns is quite an accomplishment. We are excited to offer this new STUC-O-FLEX coating system.
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