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HOME :: Home-Improvement / Stone-Brick Things You Should Know About Brick Waterproofing

2010-07-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

Construction is incomplete without the right shield and protection for the structure as the weather and other external sources can have various negative impacts on the structure and this as a result proves the importance of brick waterproofing for every structure that is being built. Brick waterproofing protects the structure by forming a seal and helps the structure remain

moisture-free. Both the veneer and the solid structures can benefit from this sealing method.

There are lots of materials that actually go into the making of these sealants but the one thing that you would find common with most of these sealants is siloxane. This siloxane actually helps by bonding with the structure and thereby not allowing water or air to pass through it. The siloxane sealant is very popular and is commonly used by people who are in need of sealants for their structures. The major reason for the popularity of this siloxane sealant is its transparent color. This transparent color makes the sealant almost visible through the naked eye and also does not disturb the original look of the structure.

These brick waterproofing sealants just do not stay on the structure and serve as a protecting layer but it also penetrates into the structure and makes it more strong and firm from within. Just one application is not good enough for a lifetime and reapplication is needed depending on the age of the building. If the building is an old one, then the reapplication can be done every four to seven years. But if the structure is a newer one, then the reapplication can be done anywhere between five to ten years.

The advantage of brick waterproofing is that it not only blocks the water from seeping into the structure but it also does not allow vapor to emit out of the structure. These vapors basically come out due to the moisture content in the structure. The sealant because of the matte finish does not allow any kind of dust or grime resting on the body of the structure thereby ensuring the building looking new and clean for a longer period of time.

Over a period of time, one can see white stains on the body of the building. This is because of the salt content in the material used for the structure. The sealants also help in getting rid of these white patches and the problem of efflorescence is also kept at bay.

Sealing can help with spalling as well which generally is the flaking out of the structure. These brick waterproofing solutions can last for quite a few years but it is important that the sealant is reapplied regularly on the building to get the best results.

Please visit Ethical Coatings for more information on Brick Waterproofing methods.

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Design Stone Fireplace Project With Faux Stone

2010-07-18T23:50:00.000-07:00

When undertaking any home renovation or design project with interior stone, you need at least two elements: quality, and variety. When it comes to adding manufactured stone veneer to that interior project, man made rock satisfies both requirements.

Uncompromising Faux Stone Quality

Manufactured stone, also known as faux stone or artificial stone, is engineered from a precisely formulated blend of Portland cement, natural rock aggregates, and carefully selected pigments. At only a fraction of the weight of natural rock, manufactured stone eliminates the need for structural reinforcing, foundations, and footings. Thus, the stone can be installed on any stable interior or exterior wall surface, facing, or elevation, including those where natural rock would be impractical. While some manufacturers of artificial stone cut corners on their components and processes, usually most of them has been careful to select only quality suppliers with a reputation for durable, weather and wear-resistant components. As a result, they're able to offer an industry-leading 50-year guarantee on every rock they carry.

Unparalleled Manufactured Stone Selection

Artificial rock carries the full product lines of stone, giving you the widest possible variety of styles, textures, and colours suitable for any project. Want to put a stone fireplace in your bedroom? How about an outdoor kitchen clad with river rock? Perhaps you want to jazz up those pillars in your basement family room with ledge stone. Or maybe you want to change the whole look of your house -- and increase its resale value -- by replacing its faded old siding with attractive natural-look faux stone siding. What ever the design, man made rocks have a huge selection to match all natural stones.

Artificial stone perfectly matches the appearance of natural stone.

Whether it's the rough-hewn look of fieldstone or the gentle contours of streamstone, quality man made rock so perfectly emulates the look and feel of natural stone it can fool even experienced masons. This remarkable achievement comes from using a formulation of Portland cement, natural aggregates, and carefully selected pigments in meticulously detailed molds modeled after natural rock. The result is a finished product virtually indistinguishable from the original.

Jerry Lebiedzinski is the President of Stone Selex, a premier supplier of manufactured stone in Canada. Visit us at http://www.stoneselex.com for the best options in manufactured stone veneer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_Lebiedzinski

Pros and Cons of Natural Stone Veneer

2010-07-12T23:49:00.000-07:00

Pros and Cons of Natural Stone Veneer

By Jacob Peter

Natural stone offers numerous benefits over other produced constructing materials. As it is generated straight from the earth, it has an exclusivity that just Mother Earth can generate. These offer a genuine color palette that is matchless by substitute materials. As it is not a fake produce, it is colorfast and long-lasting. Breaking off and sun harm are not worries for this stone. Actually, you can anticipate that situation and exposure will only augment its strength and splendor.

Pro's of Natural Stone Veneer

Natural stone thin veneer is a light weighted option to complete size veneer. It is engraved from natural stone and its width is 3/4" to 1-1/4".

- Because of its reduced heaviness and effortlessness of managing, this can be fixed quicker therefore resulting in price savings for your assignment.

- Can transport 3600 square feet per truckload of thin veneer, while reducing the shipping costs.

- This is obtainable in all colors and quality when it comes to choose thin stone for the house.

- Setting up employs a bonding agent is applied which lets for the stone to be useful without a stone ridge or base. This function makes it particularly of use on remodeling plan or in regions with unique support concern for instance chimneys over roof line and second floor fireside.

- As it is natural, this veneer will not have a replicating pattern that is simply exclusive as it is with false stone materials.

- It is appropriate to any budget.

- Being that it is reduced fairly thin, this makes a reasonable option for those that have a precise financial plan drawn for their house enhancement and home renovates activities.

Con's of Natural Stone Veneer

There are a few points that may be recognized as drawbacks to employ natural stone veneer in the region of the home. These disadvantages are as follows.

1. This stone veneer is manufactured naturally. Numerous people's desire to stay away from stone types that are formed. If you are finding for a produce that is produced from rocks acquired naturally, this may not be a perfect option for you.

2. There is a chance that the creation may experience breaking off and scraping. Whilst this is essentially a drawback, there is a constructive side. If breaking off or scraping take place, the stone is formed in such a way that the under face is alike as the external surface. This signifies that it will merge in suitably.

3. People who employ this kind of stone veneer may sense that it is not as long-lasting as stones acquired naturally. Though, it does have a high forbearance for severe conditions.

Jacob Peter specializes in natural stone veneer. He has written more articles related to Fieldstone veneer, masonry veneer, stone veneer suppliers, stone veneer wholesale, thin brick veneer, thin stone veneer, and veneer products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jacob_Peter

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Are You Thinking of Installing Man-Made Stone Veneer? - Consider Your Options For Grouting Methods

2010-07-07T22:34:00.001-07:00

Are You Thinking of Installing Man-Made Stone Veneer? - Consider Your Options For Grouting Methods

By Doug Casady

When planning your stone veneer project take the time to ask your local supplier to show you samples of different grout options. The look you are trying to achieve can be changed drastically with each technique. The grout technique that is chosen plays a huge factor in the finished outcome of your project.

The first and most common grout choice is the raked joint. This is when the mortar is recessed enough to accent each individual stone. The key to this is allowing the mortar to dry long enough, but not too long before dressing the joints. If you do it too early after grouting the mortar will stain the stone. If you wait too long the mortar joint will be very uneven. Always remember the weather plays a big factor in the drying time of the mortar!

The next most popular technique is the dry stack look. This method requires a bit more skill and patience of all methods. When fitting the stone I highly recommend using a small 4" grinder with a diamond blade to help you with fitting each stone. Do not forget your safety glasses, ear protection, and dust masks! Also use an acrylic bonding agent in your mortar as you install the stone simply because you do not have grout between each stone to help bond each stone to your substrate.

Another option is the over grouting method. This is achieved by placing the mortar with your grout bag (which looks like a large pastry decorating bag!) all the way to the outer edge of each stone. You will want to finish the joints earlier than you would with the raked method because staining the stones will be less noticed. You can use a burlap bag to finish the joints flush with the each stone. The goal is to achieve the "Rustic" or "Old World" look. This option is great for a homeowner that chooses to install the stone. It is the most forgiving of all methods.

For more information on grouting options refer to this site: http://www.eldoradostone.com. Enjoy the process of choosing your stone and a grout technique. If done properly you will enjoy the finished product for many years! Thanks for reading this article!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Doug_Casady

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2010-07-07T22:18:00.000-07:00

Stone Veneer - Beautiful, Durable, and Efficient

By Paul J Easton

When it comes to stone veneer, here's what every home owner should know. First of all, stone is much more versatile than you might think. It provides a large number benefits over other building materials.

And installation of veneer is easy, saving you time and money. After reading this article, you should have a completely new appreciation for what you can accomplish.

To begin with, veneer is remarkably versatile. Most people think of exterior siding when you mention this material. However, you can also use it inside your home. Applying it to an interior wall or fireplace instantly upgrades the look of any room in which it's used. It is also great for use in outdoor entertainment areas. For example, adding it around a pool makes the pool area look more exotic and expensive.

Stone veneer also provides many benefits. More than just a beautiful look, there are real tangible benefits that could mean extra money in your pocket. It adds unique texture and color to your home, increasing its curb appeal and perceived value.

It also increases your home's energy efficiency. Summers will feel cooler and winters will feel warmer without having to spend extra on your utility bill. Stone veneer is also durable and long-lasting. It eliminates the need for regular painting, saving you bundles of time and money.

Maybe the best thing about stone veneer is that it's super easy to install. Even if you're having it installed by a professional, the time saved will translate into money saved as well. However, stone veneer installation is actually easy enough for you to do it yourself. Imagine the pride of stepping back, looking at your beautiful new addition and saying "I did that!"

So what are you waiting for? It's time to take a new look at the tremendous offerings possible. You can use it for so many different things, there is sure to be a project around your home that needs it. The benefits it provides will save you money, not only now but in the long run as well. Finally, installation is a snap, ridiculously easy for a professional, and well within the capabilities of the average do-it-yourselfer. Just think, you could be enjoying the new look around your home just days from now.

Paul Easton is the Head of Online Marketing for Alpine Stone the Stone Veneer Shop- AlpineStone.net.nz - The Stone Veneer Specialist from New Zealand

Article Source: Stone Veneer - Beautiful, Durable, and Efficient

Turn Your Backyard Into an Oasis With Affordable Exterior Stone Veneers

2010-07-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

Imagine coming home after a hard day's work to unwind in your own personal outdoor sanctuary. Imagine dining al fresco, enjoying a delicious meal prepared on the grill of your outdoor kitchen. Then imagine spending the evening under the stars as you relax by the fireplace in your outdoor living room.

Outdoor living spaces like this are ideal venues for entertaining, allowing you to expand the functional area of your home beyond the confines of its walls. Manufactured stone veneer makes it easy to create such an outdoor oasis, the harmonious blending of interior design with exterior landscaping.

Stone Veneer Kitchen Types

The first element to consider is the kitchen. There are two options to help you design an outdoor kitchen to suit both your environment and your budget.

Modular Kitchen Islands

This is a semi-custom option in which you choose the units you desire, then mason company works with you to select the manufactured stone matching your environment. Accent finishes can include stucco, granite, and more.

Custom Kitchen Islands

This completely custom option gives you a unique design unlike anything you'll find on the market. For example, you may choose a detailed stone veneer fireplace, perhaps a pizza oven, a bar, food preparation and cooking areas, and a seating area. Our experienced landscape architect will match the finish to your existing pool or pavilion, precisely reflecting your lifestyle and personality.

Outdoor Kitchen Shapes

Your outdoor kitchen island can be a simple rectangular unit, or it can have multiple angles of varying degrees. Popular shapes are Vs and Ls. It all depends on the appliances and amenities you wish to accommodate. Consider a design that provides an area for stools arranged so you can face and converse with your guests as you cook.

Outdoor Living Rooms

An outdoor living space can consist of just a kitchen, but why not create a complete and harmonious environment that encompasses an area to sit and relax as well? Think about including a traditional fire pit, clad in rustic stone veneer. Wood-burning or fuelled by propane or natural gas, it would make an ideal centrepiece for your backyard.

While a fireplace or fire-pit provides ambient light and warmth, it won't protect you from the elements. For that you'll need a shelter such as an awning or a pergola. This can be sized to cover just the kitchen area, or the entire living space. The pillars for the shelter can be clad in the same stone veneer you've chosen for your fireplace and kitchen, blending in with your overall landscape design.

A Lifestyle Investment

Your outdoor living space can be both a retreat from the world and a reflection of your lifestyle. But it's also a wise and practical investment. Studies have proven that well designed and constructed backyard kitchens and living rooms retain as much as 81% of their value, contributing to the resale price of your home.

Jerry Lebiedzinski is the President of Stone Selex, a premier supplier of artificial stone wall and manufactured stone in Canada. Stone Selex is ideally suited to help you realize that investment. Our professional staff draws on years of experience in the design and construction industry, and takes pride in offering you thoughtful, personalized service.

With our new and expanded location Stone Selex is even better equipped to help you design the perfect outdoor living space. In our generous showroom you'll find a wide range of colours and styles of manufactured stone and brick veneer perfect for both indoor and outdoor installations including elevations, fireplace and chimney stone, fences, wall facings, and pillars.

We carry artificial stone or faux stone from such top-of-the-line manufacturers as Artistic Stone, Artek Stone, and Canyon Stone. From our central location in Mississauga, we're prepared to service and deliver to customers in Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville, Milton, Mississauga, Georgetown, Brampton, Etobicoke, Toronto, York, Woodbridge, Maple, Concord, Richmond Hill, Oshawa, Acton, Erin, Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, Barrie, London, Kingston, Peterborough, Belleville, Ottawa, Thunder Bay, Owen Sound, and beyond.

Visit Stone Selex today to see why our manufactured stone and brick veneer is the affordable real stone alternative for your outdoor kitchen and living room or visit Stone Selex at http://www.stoneselex.com for the best options in manufactured stone veneer.