There are two general types of cracking: structural and surface. Surface cracking, also known as hairline cracks, are generally 1/16” wide or less; structural cracking is typically wider and deeper. What are some of the causes of cracking and what can be done to prevent them? This blog post is going to crack this topic wide open and provide answers to these questions and more. Let’s begin by looking at the root causes of cracks in commercial buildings.

Common Causes of Facade Cracking

Cracks in a facade can be caused by a wide range of things. The source of the crack can be rooted in environmental impacts. Cracks can also stem from problems inside a building. Here is a short list of the most common causes of facade cracking.

Environmental stressors may include:

• Thermal expansion and contraction – As a building heats and cools, its exterior components expand and shrink, creating stress.
• Freeze/thaw cycles – In colder climates, winter can exact a heavy toll on a building with repeated freeze/thaw events.
• Wind-driven rain and UV degradation – Environmental elements are the most frequent stressors, pounding the exterior of buildings day in and day out.

Structural and substrate-related causes may include:

• Building movement or settlement – Buildings settle over time creating stress points that lead to cracks and while buildings are designed for movement, years of movement or extreme movement outside of normal parameters can increase stress.
• Inadequate substrate preparation – Surface level protection offers one level of defense; if the substrate is left unprotected, surface cracks can penetrate deeper, faster.
• Incompatibility between facade materials – Different materials from different manufacturers don’t always work well together, sometimes leaving weak spots in a building’s envelope.

But how much damage can a crack cause? It can’t be that bad, can it? The consequences of these problems can be very real and very damaging.

The Short- and Long-Term Consequences of Cracks

Surface cracks are more than just cosmetic flaws. They can lead to serious performance issues and costly repairs. Obviously, cracks create an opportunity for moisture intrusion, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. Air leakage into the walls can compromise energy efficiency.

Long-term consequences may include material degradation. The constant intrusion of both water and air can damage components found within the wall cavity. The degradation of these systems can lead to more significant water intrusion and compromised climate control for the occupants. In worst-case scenarios, these failures can lead to liability and warranty issues.

But there are ways to address hairline cracks in stucco claddings that help prevent future breaches, extend the facade life, reduce lifecycle costs, and preserve aesthetics. One solution proven to proactively prevent cracks is Sto Crack Defense.

Sto Crack Defense: Engineered for Performance

Sto’s crack prevention technologies protect your investment from the start. Sto Crack Defense, in particular, enhances the durability and longevity of stucco and other facade systems. This fortification layer consists of woven glass fiber mesh embedded in a polymer-reinforced basecoat. The technical advantages of using a crack prevention system like this include:

• Reinforcement resists cracking from stresses and movement
• Distributes load across a broader surface area
• Flexible and durable under real-world building dynamics

Sto Crack Defense is designed to work with any stucco cladding system, including our own StoPowerwall^® Stucco, a stucco wall assembly with a continuous air and water-resistive barrier that combines the strength and durability of traditional stucco.

This system can be used in new builds and retrofits. For new construction, it’s an integral solution for architects and builders focused on long-term durability and aesthetics that enhance the performance of exterior wall systems from day one. In restorations and retrofits, Sto Crack Defense is ideal for preserving historic facades or repairing cracked stucco, helping to meet updated performance codes without a full tear-off.

Proactive Measures Pay Off

It’s been said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That certainly holds true when it comes to proactively integrating crack control measures. Here are just a few of the benefits of using crack prevention technology like Sto Crack Defense:

Reduced maintenance and repair costs:

• Fewer callbacks for cracking
• Longer service intervals before refinishing

Improved visual continuity:

• Preserves clean facade lines over time
• Avoids the “patched” look that undermines curb appeal

Sustainability bonus:

• Contributes to longevity and durability metrics in green building programs (LEED, etc.)

Crack Prevention is Value Engineering

Investing in Sto Crack Defense is a long-term strategy for a high-performance facade. Specifying Sto Crack Defense is value engineering. It saves the building owner from expensive and unnecessary repairs down the road. Stop cracks before they happen with Sto Crack Defense.

For more information about Sto Crack Defense or Sto Corp., please visit www.stocorp.com or call (800) 221-2397. To find the perfect Sto system for your project, check out the Sto System Finder.

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An Affordable Way to Fight Surface Cracks

Sto Crack Defense is an innovative solution that enhances the durability and aesthetic appeal of stucco wall systems. It consists of Sto Mesh embedded in Sto polymer-reinforced basecoat. Recommended when a fine texture finish is specified, this fortification layer is ideal for preventing hairline and surface cracking and could save thousands of dollars if repairs are ever needed.

Sto RFP–a one-component, ready-mixed, reinforced basecoat with high tensile strength and flexibility–is the recommended basecoat option. It does not contain or require cement and will help reduce the occurrence of efflorescence. To see Sto Crack Defense options, specifications, and a full list of allowable components, visit our stucco systems page.

Enhanced Durability for Long-Term Savings

The beauty of Sto Crack Defense is that it helps prevent issues before they happen while adding minimal cost to the wall system itself. Reinforcing your first line of defense means fewer callbacks, so you’ll save money on long-term maintenance and repair costs. The benefits of Sto Crack Defense include:

• Enhances strength and flexibility of stucco
• Cost-effective solution with long-term savings
• Suitable for both new constructions and renovation projects
• Maintains aesthetic options without compromising durability

Sto Crack Defense can be added to any of Sto’s engineered stucco systems that include an acrylic finish, which may extend your system’s warranty by up to 3 years.

A Smart Solution Deserves A Beautiful Finish

After building in that extra layer of protection, finish the system with any of Sto’s beautiful finishes. Our goal is to give you unmatched creative freedom and the ability to establish the design aesthetic that best illustrates and illuminates your creative vision. Available in a variety of textures and an extensive range of color options, Sto Traditional Finishes feature pure white marble aggregate and acrylic polymers. These finishes provide the basis for StoSignature looks, allowing endless design possibilities with the performance confidence of Sto finishes.

StoCast Brick and StoCast Wood can also be used to capture the essence of real brick and wood, respectively. These resin-cast shapes are more lightweight and durable than their traditional counterparts, minimizing time and energy in transportation and installation and allowing for greater conservation of natural material resources.

To see all of the aesthetic possibilities, visit our aesthetic product selector.

Restore Existing Stucco Buildings, Too

While Sto Crack Defense is ideal for new construction, it is also easily incorporated into reStore Level 2 projects when repairing and refinishing existing stucco buildings. Resurfacing the building with Sto Crack Defense will extend the life of the cladding while allowing for a wide variety of aesthetics.

Intelligent Solutions from an Industry Leader

Sto Corp. is the world’s leading innovator in claddings, air barriers, coatings, and restoration systems. So, it’s no surprise that we are developing innovative solutions like Sto Crack Defense that help to improve building performance by reducing repairs and maintenance costs. But our portfolio includes so much more, like special wall assemblies engineered to meet the building enclosure’s very particular design and performance requirements and the ability to achieve a wide variety of aesthetic appearances.

For more information about Sto Crack Defense or Sto Corp., please visit www.stocorp.com or call (800) 221-2397. To find the perfect Sto system for your project, check out the Sto System Finder.

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Municipalities nationwide are scrutinizing fire regulations, especially for combustible exterior wall assemblies. In 2022, New York City introduced the NYC Building Code (BC), section BC 718.2.6, for constructing exterior wall assemblies containing combustible components. New York City authorities enacted these changes because of the density of high-rise structures in the city and their belief that current NFPA 285 testing did not address all concerns regarding the spread of fire where foam plastic and other combustible materials are used in exterior wall assemblies. Additional municipalities are likely to follow the New York Code, which requires non-combustible fireblocking to be incorporated into EIFS, MCM, HPL, FRP, and any other cladding with foam plastic insulation.

A Fireblocking Breakthrough Engineered by Sto

Driven by a commitment to innovation and safety, Sto Corp. developed a fireblocking solution to meet the latest rigorous fireblocking requirements for combustible exterior wall assemblies.

Sto Fireblocking is a unique, patent-pending solution that incorporates the use of Sto Lamellas, a non-combustible mineral wool product. Sto Lamellas are 48 inches long and 4 inches tall, precision cut and available in various thicknesses to accommodate R-value requirements. The product is adhered and, therefore, does not create any thermal bridging. It seamlessly integrates into StoTherm ci GPS/EPS, StoPowerwall ci, and StoVentec Rainscreen systems, offering a complete fireblocking solution for a wide range of applications.

Sto’s fireblocking solution is fully compliant with the new 2022 New York City Building Code (BC), section BC 718.2.6).

Fully Tested and Trusted Technology

To develop this innovative fireblocking solution, Sto leveraged over two decades of proven technology already utilized overseas. Lamellas have been fully tested and trusted across Europe for over two decades. Sto Lamella allows architects to design an energy-efficient building with lightweight cladding that is adhered to the substrate and, therefore, penetration-free. Plus, with Sto’s innovative solutions, virtually any aesthetic can be achieved, and as always with Sto, the systems include a complete air and water-resistive barrier.

Wall Systems that Meet the Most Stringent Fireblocking Requirements

These new building codes impact all exterior wall assemblies with wall coverings or claddings composed of other combustible materials, such as Metal Composite Materials (MCM), High-Pressure Laminates (HPL), Fiber-reinforced Plastic (FRP). When incorporated into StoTherm ci systems, StoPowerwall ci, or StoVentec Rainscreen systems, Sto Lamella provides a 2022 NYC BC code-compliant building envelope, tested in accordance with NFPA 285. Sto Fireblocking gives architects, contractors, and owners the confidence and ability to use wall systems that offer innovative design, are highly efficient, and meet the most rigorous building codes for fireblocking.

Engineered by Sto Corp. Approved by NYC.

The way in which the fireblocking layer in Sto Lamella is engineered using lamellas represents a significant advancement in fire safety technology. It is, quite literally, where safety meets innovation.

While it was engineered by Sto, the innovative world leader in claddings, air barriers, coatings, and restoration systems, this fireblocking breakthrough has been approved by New York City, the city with the most stringent building codes in the world.

For more information on Sto Lamella, please visit Stocorp.com or call (800) 221-2397.

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Insulation Evolved

So, what exactly is GPS? GPS (graphite polystyrene) is a rigid thermal insulation material. The primary difference between GPS and traditional insulation products is that GPS insulating boards are thinner. In fact, they are up to 20% thinner than other rigid insulation boards. That means less material is required to achieve the same results. And the product itself is recyclable, making it more environmentally friendly.

What Makes the Sto GPS Insulation Unique?

It’s all about the graphite. Sto GPS Board is a rigid, graphite-enhanced, 100% closed-cell expanded polystyrene insulation board. We use graphite because it is the most stable form of carbon – safe and chemically inert. Plus, it reduces thermal conductivity and increases the R-value by as much as 25%.

Technically Speaking

So, how does the use of graphite and closed-cell construction impact performance? We’re glad you asked. It provides R4.7 per inch of thermal resistance at 75°F. In other words, our GPS Board enables you to achieve a higher R-value in thinner walls without the use of fluorocarbon blowing agents. Sto GPS Board complies with ASHRAE 90.1-2019 prescriptive continuous insulation requirements.

“Fluorocarbon Blowing Agents?”

It’s how some traditional polyurethane foam insulation panels are made. And some blowing agents are harmful to the environment. Sto GPS (and EPS) do not use blowing agents to achieve their thermal performance. As a result, the R-value is more stable than insulation that uses blowing agents, and they are better for the environment with no off gassing.

How Does a Thinner Board Affect Design?

Achieving a higher R-value in a thinner product gives design professionals new options for exterior wall configurations. Walls can be made thinner with equal thermal resistance, creating a larger interior for a given building footprint. Or wall thickness can remain the same, and thermal resistance can be substantially increased.

Another Sto Difference: Board Size

Sto GPS Board is available in larger sizes than most traditional panels and in various thicknesses. That means you’ll use fewer boards, and the boards are easier to work with. Plus, Sto GPS Board is installed using Sto TurboStick or Sto TurboStick Mini, so there are no mechanical fasteners, which means faster, easier installation and no thermal bridging.

Excels in Extreme Climates

The thermal resistance of the Sto GPS Board gets better as temperatures drop. It is rated at R4.7 per inch at 75°F per ASTM C578; at 40°F, it attains R4.9 per inch. In addition, the closed-cell design is moisture vapor semi-permeable. This allows a board in contact with water to dry out, helping preserve high insulation performance and facilitating moisture egress from wall systems.

Better for the Environment

As a result of the manufacturing method and the slimmer size of the panels, Sto GPS Board has excellent long-term R-value stability. With Sto GPS Board, very little additional material is needed, and the cost difference is negligible. The payoff is reduced building energy consumption, better building operating economics, and reduced emission of greenhouse gases. Did we mention that it’s also recyclable? Sto GPS insulation can be reused to make other products, so it never has to end up in a landfill.

Compatible with Sto’s Advanced Wall Systems

StoGPS Board is an integral part of our perfect wall, but it’s only the beginning. Sto GPS Board can be used as part of StoTherm^® ci GPS, StoTherm^® ci MVES, StoPowerwall^® ci, and StoPanel GPS ci.

Innovation, Inside and Out

We’ve talked about the innovation inside the walls, but what about the cladding and finishes on the outside? Sto GPS insulation works beautifully with StoCast Wood and StoCast Brick, which creates an authentic look while reducing costs, installation time, and the impact on our environment. Don’t forget about Sto’s high performance coatings and finishes, including Stolit Lotusan and StoColor Lotusan. These products mimic the self-cleaning capabilities of the lotus leaf, resisting dirt pick-up while keeping walls clean and attractive. Sto’s Specialty Finishes may also be used with GPS systems. For a complete look at Sto’s finish options, visit our website.

In addition to being compatible with StoTherm ci system, Sto GPS Board is also compatible with StoPowerwall, a premium integrated stucco wall system featuring a superior drainage plane and R5.0 or R10 Sto GPS Board continuous exterior Insulation; StoTherm ci MVES, designed for thin brick, natural stone, ceramic tile, or cultured stone; and StoPanel GPS ci, a lightweight prefabricated wall panel system.

Sto GPS Insulation: Protecting Our Future

Sto GPS insulation is the future of insulation. It not only offers superior, efficient insulation but is also recyclable.  By choosing Sto GPS Boards, you are making a commitment to a greener, more sustainable future. To see a comparison between GPS and other traditional insulation, visit our blog. To learn more about Sto’s Wall systems, visit our system finder page. Or to find the best Sto Wall System for your project, check out the Sto Wall Selector.

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Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems (MVES) offer solutions allowing designers to achieve the look and performance they seek. These systems also allow for a vast array of building facade textures and colors while maintaining a continuous building envelope to help ensure a sustainable, energy-efficient building.

Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems

Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems (MVES) are fully engineered and tested systems that include the various control layers of the building envelope to ensure compatibility for a long-lasting, durable structure. Sto performed rigorous system-level structural, fire, and wind-load testing to ensure code-compliant and high-performing systems for any construction type.

All Sto’s MVES include the following components:

StoGuard® Air and Water-Resistive Barrier

The StoGuard® Air and Water-Resistive Barrier provides long-term protection against moisture intrusion and promotes excellent indoor air quality, unlike building wrap typically used in traditional masonry cladding, which can tear, puncture, or rip.

StoColl

High-performing, polymer-modified StoColl Portland cement thin set masonry veneer adhesive provides superior freeze-thaw resistance and high bond strength.

MVES Allows for Multiple Facades to Single System Designs

Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems (MVES) allows architects and builders to apply a combination of masonry veneers like thin brick, natural stone, cultured stone, or ceramic tiles, along with a vast array of colors and textures coatings provided by Sto’s high-performance finishes, to their fully engineered and tested systems. The system type depends on the building’s performance needs (e.g., a continuous insulation system (EIFS), traditional stucco, cement board stucco, or rainscreen systems)).

Sto’s EIFS, stucco, cement board stucco and rainscreen systems include StoTherm® ci MVES, StoPowerwall DrainScreen MVES, StoQuik Silver DrainScreen MVES, StoPowerwall ExtraSeal MVES, and StoVentec for masonry veneer facades.

The systems provide several significant benefits:

• Durability
• Water and vapor protection
• Complete compatibility with other Sto architectural surfaces or systems

StoTherm® ci MVES

Sto Products: StoTherm® ci, StoTherm® ci MVES with stone, StoGuard®

White Castle built their largest restaurant with a combination of StoTherm® systems to provide superior protection against Florida’s frequent tropical storms and hurricanes while still being able to match the White Castle restaurants’ stucco and stone aesthetics.

Light-weight, energy-efficient StoTherm® ci MVES incorporates continuous exterior insulation to meet the most stringent energy codes. It also complies with NFPA 268 and 285 standards for Types I-IV construction, IBC, IRC, IECC (2012, 2015, 2018), ASHRAE 90.1-2016, and passed the ASTM E119 1-hour load-bearing rated assembly.

1. Structural Wall Assembly
2. Air and Water-Resistive Barrier
3. Sto RapidGuard® sheathing joints and corners, flashings, and rough opening protections
4. Sto RapidGuard® static joints and seams
5. StoGuard® Conformable Membrane
6. Adhesive: Sto TurboStick
7. Insulation: DuPont™ Panel Core 20/ ST-100 – XPS
8. Mesh: Sto 6 oz. Reinforcing Mesh
9. Basecoat: Sto Primer/Adhesive
10. Attachment: Fastener by others
11. Masonry Veneer Adhesive: StoColl
12. Masonry Veneer Grout
13. Masonry Veneer, thin brick, thin natural stone, ceramic tile, or manufactured stone in conformance with applicable building code requirements

StoPowerwall® MVES

StoPowerwall® MVES is a three-coat stucco system with superior impact resistance:

1. Air and Water-Resistive Barrier – Wall Membrane: Sto Gold Coat® – Substrate Drive
2. Sto RapidGuard®: sheathing joints and corners, flashing and rough opening protection
3. Sto RapidGuard®: Static Joints and Seams
4. Dynamic Joints: StoGuard® Conformable Membrane
5. Code Compliant Paper or Felt WRB
6. Code Compliant Metal Lath
7. Stucco Scratch Coat: StoPowerwall Stucco
8. Stucco Brown Coat: StoPowerwall Stucco
9. Masonry Veneer Adhesive: StoColl
10. Masonry Veneer Grout
11. Masonry Veneer, thin brick, thin natural stone, ceramic tile, or manufactured stone in conformance with applicable building code requirements

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen® MVES

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen® MVES includes Sto DrainScreen for advanced moisture management. The Sto DrainScreen drainage mat provides additional ventilation to evacuate incidental moisture. It complies with IRC, IBC, IECC (2012, 2015, 2018), and NFPA 285 for Types I-V construction.

1. Air and Water-Resistive Barrier – Wall Membrane: Sto Gold Coat®– Substrate Drive
2. Sto RapidGuard®: sheathing joints and corners, flashing and rough opening protection
3. Sto RapidGuard®: Static Joints and Seams
4. Dynamic Joints: StoGuard® Conformable Membrane
5. Code Compliant Paper or Felt WRB
6. Drainage: Sto DrainScreen 6mm
7. Code Compliant Metal Lath
8. Stucco Scratch Coat: StoPowerwall Stucco
9. Stucco Brown Coat: StoPowerwall Stucco
10. Masonry Veneer Adhesive: StoColl
11. Masonry Veneer Grout
12. Masonry Veneer, thin brick, thin natural stone, ceramic tile, or manufactured stone in conformance with applicable building code requirements

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen® MVES

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen® MVES is a fast and easy-to-install, superior impact-resistant system with Sto DrainScreen® technology to promote drainage and drying of the wall system. StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen® MVES complies with IBC, IRC, IECC (2012, 2015, 2018), and NFPA 285 for Types l-V construction – an ideal design solution for residential, low-rise commercial or institutional buildings

1. Structural Wall Assembly
2. Air and Water-Resistive Barrier – Wall Membrane: Sto Gold Coat® – Substrate Drive
3. Sto RapidGuard®: Sheathing Joints and Corners, Flashing and Rough Opening
4. Static Joints and Seams: Sto RapidGuard®
5. Dynamic Joints: StoGuard® Conformable Membrane
6. Dynamic Joints: StoGuard® Conformable Membrane
7. Drainage: Sto DrainScreen® 6mm
8. PermaBase™ Cement Board ASTM C 1325 (min. ½ inch or 13 mm)
9. Joint Reinforcement: StoGuard® Fabric 9
10. Joint Reinforcement Air & Water-Resistive Barrier – Wall Membrane: Sto Gold Coat® – Substrate Driven
11. Skim Coat: StoColl
12. Masonry Veneer Adhesive: StoColl
13. Masonry Veneer Grout
14. Masonry Veneer

StoPowerwall® – ExtraSeal MVES

StoPowerwall ExtraSeal MVES is a direct applied portland cement stucco wall system with Adhered Masonry Veneer (AMV) – thin brick, natural stone, ceramic tile, or manufactured stone. Sto ExtraSeal offers air and moisture protection with the strength and durability of Portland cement stucco.

1. Air and Water-Resistive Barrier – Wall Membrane: Sto ExtraSeal®
2. StoGuard Detail Component – Flashing and Rough Opening Protection, Penetrations: Sto RapidGuard®
3. StoGuard Detail Component- Static Joints and Seams: Sto RapidGuard®
4. StoGuard Detail Component- Dynamic Joints: StoGuard Conformable Membrane
5. Stucco Scratch Coat: Sto ExtraSeal®
6. Stucco Brown Coat: StoPowerwall Stucco
7. Masonry veneer adhesive: StoColl
8. Masonry Veneer Grout
9. Masonry Veneer

StoVentec® for Masonry Veneer Facades

Drained, fully-engineered, back-ventilated StoVentec for masonry veneer facades Rainscreen® wall system features a thin brick facade. The complete system includes continuous insulation, sub-construction, and air and water-resistive barrier. StoVentec for masonry veneer facades combines the high performance of the StoVentec rainscreen system with the durability of thin brick masonry veneer.

1. Structural Wall Assembly
2. Air & Moisture Barrier – Wall Membrane: Sto AirSeal® – Substrate Driven
3. Air & Moisture Barrier – Sheathing Joints & Corners: Sto RapidGuard®
4. Air & Moisture Barrier – Rough Opening Protection: Sto RapidGuard®
5. Air & Moisture Barrier – Flashing and Penetration: Sto RapidGuard®
6. Insulation: =Owens Corning Thermafiber® Rainbarrier 45
7. Sub-construction: StoVentro Subconstruction
8. Carrier Board: StoVentec® Carrier Board A+
9. Primer: StoPrime
10. Base Coat: Sto Primer/Adhesive
11. Reinforcing Mesh: Sto 6 oz. Mesh
12. Masonry Veneer Adhesive: StoColl
13. Masonry Veneer Grout (by others)
14. Masonry Veneer (by others)

StoTherm ci MVES Case Studies

Sunnyslope High School Phoenix, AZ

Sto products used: StoTherm ci MVES

Encompass Health Owasso, OK

Sto products used: StoPanel Classic NExT ci and StoTherm ci MVES

PayCom Headquarters Grapevine, TX

Sto products used: StoTherm ci and StoTherm ci MVES

The Benefits of Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems

Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems provides architects and builders with multiple options for combining masonry veneer surfaces (natural stone, thin brick, cultured stone, or ceramic tiles ) and Sto’s high-performance finishes with Sto fully engineered EIFS, stucco, or cement board systems: StoTherm® ci MVES, StoPowerwall DrainScreen MVES, StoQuik Silver DrainScreen MVES, StoPowerwall ExtraSeal MVES, and StoVentec for masonry veneer facades. Together, the Sto products create one complete system to ensure the continuity and compatibility of the building envelope and the designer’s and building owners’ aesthetic goals.

Contact Sto today for more on how Sto MVES and specialty finishes can help you achieve all your building’s performance and aesthetic goals.

The post Enhancing Architectural Appeal: Exploring Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems (MVES) appeared first on Sto Corp..

What Is Stucco?

Natural stucco contains Portland cement, sand, water, fiber, pigments, hydraulic cement, and lime. Modern stuccos also include polymer and other agents to improve flexibility and resilience. Stucco finishes provide a durable, fire- and pest-resistant finish. In addition, stucco can increase a building’s or home’s resale value when properly applied, maintained, and repaired.

Builders apply stucco finish on the exterior of a building or home in multiple layers to a thickness of about one inch. Stucco comes in various colors and texture finish types, from smooth to textured, and, depending on the stucco’s application, can achieve a number of different aesthetic textures.

Eight Stucco Finish Aesthetic Options

Architects can choose from numerous stucco finish applications techniques to give every building or home a unique exterior, including: Sand, Cat, Dash, Santa Barbara, Worm, Lace, Skip, English, Smooth. Sto offers a broad selection of high performance Stucco Finishes that can be used to create many of these desired aesthetics.

1. Sand (Float) Stucco Finish

Beautiful sand stucco finish applications are used to create a fine, medium, or coarse, grainy texture appearance that can hide imperfections. In addition, you can quickly and easily repair cracked and damaged sand stucco.

Builders typically apply sand stucco with a float tool, to create a distinctive, classic look to homes and buildings. Then, they use an airless spray or paint roller to apply the paint, and ensure that the stucco will be able to breathe after the paint dries out.

2. Cat (California) Stucco Finish

Cat stucco finish applications create a distinctive, airy, simple-elegant appearance with large smooth areas and smaller rough patches (inclusions) evenly scattered throughout. You can color streak/blotch and customize cat stucco finish to fit the aesthetics of your building or house.

Labor-intensive cat stucco requires two coats of finish (sprayed or troweled), with final touches completed by hand. Typically, it requires a fine or ultra-fine stucco, but a medium may also work.

It’s important to know that builders find it challenging to repair cat stucco, which frequently breaks or cracks. An additional layer of Sto’s Crack Defense system is recommended to minimize the occurrence of hairline cracking.

3. Dash (roughcast, knockdown finish, fine dash finish, pebble) Stucco Finish

Dash stucco finish applications create a gravely, gritty, bumpy look in a range of textures from light to dense. To achieve a unique texture, you can add shells, fine gravel, or pebbles to the mix.

Builders typically spray dash stucco on the exterior of a structure with a pressure gun or hopper gun, by applying a light, medium, or heavy volume that results in a rough and uneven finish, making it easy to patch if it cracks or breaks.

To achieve a knockdown dash finish, you knock down peaks of stucco with a metal trowel.

4. Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara Mission) Stucco Finish

Elegant, Santa Barbara stucco applications utilize fine sand particles to produce a natural and speckled design, with an irregular and semi-smooth finish that resembles an adobe-style appearance.

Builders apply Santa Barbara stucco in two coats using a pool float trowel: a base coat followed by a thick topcoat.

5. Worm (putz and swirl) Stucco Finish

The worm stucco finish application contains large pieces of aggregate that creates tiny grooves in the texture of the stucco spread. Builders apply labor-intensive worm finish with a trowel in a fine, medium, or heavy finish, for a unique exterior for every home and building.

6. Lace and Skip (Spanish Lace) Stucco Finish

The lace stucco finish application creates a semi-smooth finish, with grooves underneath the surface, that hides imperfections and flaws that you can quickly repair. With light layers, it looks like a cloudy lace. In contrast, heavy layers look like lace applied to the stone.

Builders can apply lace and skip stucco finish by hand or spray.

7. English Stucco Finish

Sophisticated English stucco applications create a heavily brushed-on finish, with an antiqued appearance of layered brush strokes with upward curls. You can quickly repair and patch durable and forgiving English stucco.

8. Smooth Stucco Finishes

Smooth stucco produces a velvety, sleek, ultrafine finish, perfect for achieving an industrial appearance. Sto recommends an expert for all applications. It requires an ultra smooth substrate that can be challenging to attain.

Sto Stucco Finishes

Sto Stucco Finishes can be used to create many of these finish aesthetics , providing architects, builders, and building owners with the complete design freedom of an expansive selection of textures and colors, to match all your design needs: modern, industrial, historic, sophisticated, elegant, and more.

In addition, we manufacture durable Sto finishes to the highest quality standards to resist water and dirt and bridge hairline cracking, protecting the value of your home or building while maintaining its outstanding curb appeal.

Sto Powerflex® Silco

Ready-mixed Sto Powerflex® is an elastomeric texture wall coating for exterior application as a decorative and protective wall finish over prepared vertical, above-grade concrete, masonry, and plaster/ stucco substrates. It comes in four texture options:

Sto Powerflex® Silco Fine

Sto Powerflex® Silco Medium

Sto Powerflex® Silco Swirl

Sto Powerflex® Silco Freeform

Sto Powerflex®

Ready-mixed Sto Powerflex® is an elastomeric texture wall coating for exterior application as a decorative and protective wall finish. over prepared vertical, above-grade concrete, masonry, and plaster/ stucco substrates. It comes in four texture options:

Sto Powerflex® Fine

Sto Powerflex® Medium

Sto Powerflex® Swirl

Sto Powerflex® Freeform

Sto Powerwall®

Ready-mixed Sto PowerwallTM textured wall coating is a flexible, acrylic, and acrylic elastomeric polymer blend, that is applied to an exterior wall as a decorative and protective wall finish over prepared vertical, above-grade concrete, masonry, and plaster/ stucco substrates.

Sto Powerwall® Fine Finish

Sto Powerwall® Medium Finish

Sto Powerwall® Swirl Finish

Sto Powerwall® Freeform Finish

Choose Sto’s Vast, Distinctive, and Durable Stucco Coatings

Sto stucco finishes help architects and building owners create unique exterior aesthetics in an extensive range of colors, forms and textures. In addition, Sto provides a comprehensive solution to minimizing maintenance and repair and improving energy efficiency – vital features to protecting the long-term value of your investment.

Click here for more information on Sto’s Stucco finishes or call (800) 221-2397.

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Lightweight, versatile, and simple to install, extruded polystyrene sheets typically come in 8-foot and 5-foot lengths, ranging from 16 inches to 4 feet wide and ¾-inch to 4-inches wide. The sheets come unfaced, and are covered with a foil facing, or laminated with plastic. The facing adds water resistance, and the lamination offers strength, but neither affects the sheets’ R-value. XPS sheets come in an array of colors (typically blue, green, and pink), based on the manufacturer, not insulating quality.

What is an XPS Insulation Board Used For?

Flexible XPS boards come in various compressive strengths, making them ideal for numerous applications in all areas of the building envelope:

• Above-grade insulation applications (walls, attics, ceilings, floors, and roofs)
• Below-grade walls (basements and foundation)
• Cool/refrigerated rooms
• In addition, you can use high compressive strength XPS panels to insulate rooftop parking garages and decks.

How is XPS Insulation Made?

Manufacturing XPS insulation involves combining polystyrene crystals with special additives and a gas blowing agent. Manufacturers feed the mixture into an extruding machine that blends and melts it into a thick liquid. The liquid then gets processed through a die, which expands it into foam, shapes, cools, and trims it into standard-sized rectangular or square boards, with surfaces according to the intended use.

XPS Surfaces

Specially designed machines produce XPS boards in smooth, rough, and grooved surfaces.

XPS Smooth Edge Panels

Demanding applications, like below-grade installation, utilize smooth XPS panels. Smooth, closed-cell XPS panels protect against absorption and diffusion due to long-term water exposure.

XPS Rough Surface Panels

Rough surfaces increase the adhesion of the facade plaster.

XPS Panels with Grooves

Grooves in the XPS panel enhance wall drainage and thermal insulation for foundations.

The Benefits of XPS Insulation

XPS insulation offers many benefits contributing to an eco-friendly, healthy, durable, and safe building envelope.

Energy-Efficient

XPS closed cell insulation, with an R-value of 4.6 and 5.0, gives it a high thermal resistance value, making it extremely energy efficient, by saving energy in buildings and reducing CO2 emissions.

Recyclable

100-percent recyclable XPS allows manufacturers to melt and reform the thermoplastic polystyrene resin into new XPS foam insulation.

XPS High Compressive Resistance

XPS insulation’s high compressive strength allows it to withstand a high pressure of >300 kPa, so it can withstand more than 6144 lbs ft2 (30,000 kilos m2) with a maximum deformation of 10 percent, making it ideal for challenging applications:

• Below-grade walls – foundations, basements, crawl spaces
• Perimeter insulation – protecting foundation walls from the side of the ground
• Inverted roofs – applying the waterproofing layer beneath instead of above the insulation
• Cavity walls – a wall with a hollow center
• Pitched roofs – roofs that slope downwards, often in two parts at an angle from a central ridge
• Walkable plates – the strength of XPS insulation makes it ideal for horizontal applications like floors, flat roofs, and heavily trafficked areas

Moisture-Resistant XPS Insulation

XPS insulation provides water and freeze-thaw resistance, to protect the insulation’s thermal performance from damaging rot and unhealthy mold. In addition, the high permeability of XPS insulation makes it ideal for bathrooms and other high-moisture rooms.

Simple to Install XPS Insulation

Lightweight XPS insulation allows for easy application without irritating the worker’s skin.

Problems with XPS Insulation

• The  combustibility of polystyrene foam makes XPS’s proper installation vital to avoiding a fire hazard and the emission of toxic fumes.
• The blowing agents in the manufacturing process may deplete over time, lessening the insulation value.
• XPS’s low-permeability can lead to condensation and mold problems.
• Over time, the gas bubbles within the XPS leak out, leaving air that lessens the panels’ insulation value.
• Most building professionals do not recommend XPS insulation on flat roofs because it will deform above 80 degrees.

How to Install XPS Boards

Applying XPS insulation boards involves gluing the lightweight sheets to the substrate, which is much simpler than batts, blown-in fibers, or spray foam insulation. It is important to only use the manufacturer’s recommended foam-safe adhesive. The wrong glue can melt the foam. In addition, butt the sheets snugly together and seal joints with a manufacturer-recommended adhesive seam tape.

Tips for Filling Wall and Ceiling Cavities

To insulate the stud, joist, and rafter cavities, cut the sheets to fit snug in the cavities, inserting them flush with the framing. To prevent airflow that can diminish the R-value, fill gaps along the edges with expandable insulation foam, safe for use with XPS. You can increase the R-value in two-by-six and larger dimension framing by inserting an additional layer of rigid foam insulation.

Tips for Cutting the XPS Boards

You can simply cut thin XPS sheets (less than 2-inches) by holding the straight edge of a utility knife along the cut line, scoring it about 3/4-inch deep. After scoring, lay the sheet on a table scored side up with the cut about 1-inch off the table. Firmly hold the sheet down and snap along the line. Trim the rough edges with the utility knife

For thicker sheets (greater than 2-inch), you will need a handheld drywall saw, or a table saw.

Tips for Installing XPS on Exterior Sheathing

Installing 2-inch EPS boards on exterior sheathing requires additional furring strips or other structural supports. In addition, 2-inch XPS does not supply the strength needed to support the weight of the siding. Therefore, Sto strongly recommends that you check with your local building authority to determine the required type of additional support before installing 2-inch XPS as exterior sheathing.

Sto XPS Continuous Insulation Wall Systems

Sto offers superior, simple-to-apply cladding solutions for applying XPS to an exterior wall system compared to XPS insulation boards: StoTherm ci XPS and StoPanel XPS ci. In addition, Sto XPS CI wall systems meet the requirements of fire, energy, and green building codes.

Sto XPS Wall Systems meets the requirements of NFPA 285 and NFPA 268 for use on non-combustible construction (Types I-IV).

Sto XPS Wall Systems 2021 International Building Codes (IBC)

• Ch. 26: Types I-IV (non-combustible) Construction, Ignition Resistance, Surface Burning Characteristics
• Ch. 17: Special Inspections, Types I-IV (non-combustible) Construction
• Ch. 16: Structural – Transverse Wind Load Resistance
• Ch. 14: Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, Weather Resistance
• Ch. 7: Fire Resistance Rated Construction

Sto XPS Wall Systems 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)

• Ch. 4: Continuous Insulation (ci) over Metal Frame Walls – All Climate Zones (with sufficient ci thickness)
• Ch. 4: Continuous Air Barrier

Sto XPS Wall Systems 2021 International Green Construction Code (IGCC)

Ch. 6: Energy Conservation, Efficiency and Atmospheric Quality (Section 606: Building Thermal Envelope insulation and Air Sealing) Alternative Compliance Path: ASHRAE 189.1-2009

Sto XPS Wall Systems 2021 ASHRAE 90.1

• Section 5: Building Envelope Continuous Insulation (ci) over Metal Frame Walls – All Climate Zones (with sufficient ci thickness)
• Section 5: Continuous Air Barrier

Sto XPS Wall Systems 2021 ASHRAE 189.1 Green Building Standards Compliance

• Normative Appendix A: Building Envelope
• Continuous Insulation (ci) over Metal Frame Walls – All Climate Zones (with sufficient ci thickness) Normative Appendix B: Continuous Air Barrier

StoTherm® ci XPS 

Durable StoTherm® ci XPS, one of StoTherm® ci wall systems, is a drainable exterior insulation finishing system that incorporates high R-value XPS insulation into the wall system, and StoGuard® fluid-applied air and moisture barrier, with Owens Corning Foamular CI-C or Dow STYROFOAM™ Panel Core 20 insulation. StoTherm® ci XPS produces water and airtight air walls to ensure superior durability and thermal efficiency.

The unique, durable system sustains maximum curb appeal and lowers energy bills to save money. In addition, StoTherm® ci XPS can be finished with a variety of Sto textured finishes or specialty aesthetic finishes to accommodate your building’s design needs.

StoPanel XPS ci Wall System

Lightweight StoPanel XPS ci prefabricated panels incorporate extruded insulation within the panel assembly, and create exterior wall cladding with excellent air and weather tightness, superior thermal performance, and long-lasting durability. In addition, architects and designers can choose from Sto’s numerous decorative and protective color and finish options.

StoPowerwall® ci with Crack Defense option

StoPowerwall® ci energy-efficient stucco wall systems include StoGuard® air and water-resistive barrier, Owens Corning or Dow Type IV XPS insulation board, Sto DrainScreen, and Sto textured finishes.
StoPowerwall ci integrates continuous XPS insulation, air/moisture barrier, drainage, and Sto’s extensive collection of aesthetic surfaces in a hard coat stucco system.

Sto Colors

Designers can use Sto’s unique Color System as a planning tool for choosing the colors for their architectural designs. The Sto Color System provides several benefits:

• Clear, logical system makes it quick and easy to understand
• Ensures reliable application of Sto’s endless and harmonic colors for use on exterior and interior
• Efficient, perception-oriented presentation media for all phases of color design

Sto Traditional Finishes

Sto’s extensive selection of finishes features pure white marble aggregate, acrylic polymers in various textures, and a wide range of color options to boost your design and harmonize with the surrounding environment. In addition, durable, high-performing Sto finishes resist dirt and water, protect the building’s facade, and enhance its curb appeal. Sto high-quality finishes include:

StoCast Finishes

Specialty Aesthetic Finishes

StoSignature

Sto Traditional Finishes

iQ Technology

Sto Has the Best XPS Wall Insulation Solutions

Sto offers superior, sustainable, simple-to-apply, multiple code-compliant cladding solutions for applying XPS to an exterior wall system compared to XPS insulation boards. Drainable StoTherm® ci XPS and StoPanel XPS ci create high-performing, sustainable, and attractive cladding systems, improve indoor comfort and air quality, save both money and energy, and ensure long-term durability:

• StoTherm® ci XPS integrates continuous XPS insulation, air/moisture barrier, drainage, and Sto’s extensive collection of aesthetic surfaces.
• StoPanel XPS ci incorporates XPS insulation within the panel assembly, to create a prefabricated finished exterior wall solution with a wide range of high-end aesthetic options.
• StoPowerwall ci integrates continuous XPS insulation, air/moisture barrier, drainage, and Sto’s extensive collection of aesthetic surfaces in a hardcoat stucco system.

Don’t hesitate to contact the Sto professionals for everything you need to know about XPS insulation.

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Architects and builders can apply a broad variety of coatings to synthetic stucco (also called Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS)) to create unique aesthetics for a building’s or a home’s cladding. Applying a synthetic stucco coating in multiple layers over the exterior sheathing will create sustainable, fire-resistant, low-maintenance, versatile, and attractive cladding. In 2009, the International Building Code recognized synthetic stucco as a cladding product that incorporates the application of a water-resistant coating or finish surface.

Unique Sto Stucco Coatings

Sto Textured Finishes provide architects, builders, and building owners complete design freedom with an extensive selection of stucco coatings in numerous color and texture options, to expand your design and harmonize with the surrounding buildings and environment. In addition, we manufacture durable Sto finishes to the highest quality standards to withstand dirt and water, in order to protect your home or building while also providing outstanding curb appeal.

Fisher Nuts Campus

Elgin, Illinois USA

Sto Products: StoPowerwall® ci with StoPowerflex Finish and StoColor Acryl Plus Coating
General Contractor: MARK 1 Restoration
Applicator: Skyline Plastering
Architect: BTC
Distributor: L & W Supply (Formerly NExGen Building Supply)

Fisher Nuts chose StoPowerwall® ci cladding for the remodel of the exterior of their office building, to improve the structure’s sustainability, and ensure that it would match the aesthetics of the campus. In addition, the owners wanted improved energy efficiency and the look of a traditional stucco system, similar to the (failed) original cladding.

The StoPowerwall® ci stucco system provides heat, air, and moisture management in addition to exceptional protective and aesthetic features. StoPowerwall® ci combines StoGuard® air and moisture barrier, Dow Styrofoam™ XPS insulation, Sto DrainScreen, StoPowerwall stucco, and Sto coatings textured finishes and coatings. In addition, architects chose Sto Powerflex® Finish and StoColor® Acryl Plus for the Fisher Nut campus. The finished product produced a high-impact resistant cladding system with continuous insulation coupled with a drainage assembly.

Sto Powerflex® Finish

Sto Powerflex® provides designers with a ready-mixed, elastomeric textured wall coating as a protective, decorative vertical, and above-grade wall finish for stucco substrates and other exterior applications. You can choose from any of Sto’s traditional finish textures.

Sto Powerflex® Freeform

Sto Powerflex® Swirl

Sto Powerflex® Medium

Sto Powerflex® Fine

StoColor® Acryl Plus

The Acrylic-based StoColor® Acryl Plus high-performance coating protects against weather, environmental pollutants, and salts. You can use it to protect vertical or horizontal stucco, along with concrete, EIFS, masonry, or previously acrylic-coated surfaces. It comes in 800 standard colors or custom color matches in a satin sheen that can provide endless, unique aesthetics.

Iconic TowerHouse Condominium 

Miami Beach, Florida

Sto Products: StoPowerwall® Stucco, Sto Watertight Coat with Sto Mesh, Sto Wall Leveler & Patch, Sto Crack Defense (Sto RFP with Sto Mesh), StoColor® Lotusan®, StoPrime®
Applicator: Coast to Coast General Contractors
General Contractor: Coast to Coast General Contractors
Engineer: AGC Engineers
Owner‘s Representative: Lenny Loscalzo

The long overdue restoration of the TowerHouse Condominiums incorporated a multifaceted system to replace the existing, water-damaged stucco, correct major structural issues, and alleviate waterproofing problems. In addition, they needed to correct severe structural and waterproofing deficiencies at the intersection of the concrete slab and concrete masonry block exterior walls.

The building team determined that various Sto Products would provide the best course of action in order to create a watertight barrier and restore the TowerHouse facade.: Sto Watertight Coat with Sto Mesh, Sto Wall Leveler & Patch, StoPowerwall® Stucco, Sto RFP with embedded Sto Mesh (Sto Crack Defense), and StoColor® Lotusan® coating.

StoColor® Lotusan®

High-performing StoColor® Lotusan® provides a decorative and protective wall coating with Lotus-Effect ® technology. You can use it to protect prepared vertical stucco, above-grade concrete, concrete masonry, EIFS, and previously painted wall surfaces. In addition, the Lotus-Effect® technology mimics the self-cleaning capabilities of the lotus leaf, and keeps facades clean longer than conventional coatings and paints. 

After creating a waterproof base coat, applying the StoPowerwall® Stucco, and embedding with the Sto Crack Defense, they applied StoPrime®, followed by StoColor® Lotusan® Coating in white with gray accents, which has returned the once iconic building to its former glory.

Net Zero-Energy Home 

Fairfax, Virginia

Sto Products: StoTherm® ci Lotusan® Stolit® Lotusan® 1.0
Applicator: Robert A Aird, Inc.
General Contractor: O’Neill Development
Architect: Peabody Architects

StoTherm® ci Lotusan® ‘s decorative and protective exterior wall cladding created a Net Zero-Energy Home that combines superior air and weather tightness with outstanding durability and thermal performance. The synthetic stucco system incorporates continuous exterior insulation and an air/moisture barrier with Sto’s high-performance finishes in a fully-tested wall cladding assembly. Architects chose Stolit® Lotusan®, a textured finish with self-cleaning properties.

Applicator, Robert A Aird, Inc. saved time by using a hard-troweled approach with the Stolit® Lotusan® 1.0 to achieve the clean, crisp, industrial look for the home’s exterior that was the aesthetic vision shared by the homeowners and the architect, David Peabody.

Sto Products Offer Endless, Unique Aesthetics for Stucco Coatings

Sto products give architects and building owners unmatched freedom for stucco coatings, allowing them to achieve unique aesthetics in any color, form, texture, or material. In addition, Sto provides a comprehensive solution to minimizing maintenance, repair, and improved energy efficiency, safeguarding the long-term value of your investment.

Click here for more information on Sto’s Stucco coatings or call (800) 221-2397.

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Base floor systems
Foundation wall systems
Above-grade wall systems
Doors and windows
Roof systems

Each component provides a multi-material, multi-layer assembly that extends from the interior layer (wallpaper or paint) to the outermost exterior layer (roof shingles, facade). Together, all the adjoining enclosure sub-systems make up the enclosure system in architecture.

Building Enclosure Design Considerations

Optimizing the building enclosure’s performance requires quality building enclosure solutions, like Sto’s integrated building enclosure systems, that consider interior and exterior environments, loadings, physical functions, and performance attributes of the enclosure. These also apply to the other physical components of the building.

Interior and Exterior Loadings

Loading refers to any event or characteristic that affects the enclosure, typically related to:

Gravity
Ground
Heat (thermal)
Moisture
Air

Interior-Environment Loadings

Interior-environmental loadings mainly result from the occupants, natural occurrences, or conditioning. Managing interior-environment loadings involves space conditioning to maintain temperature and humidity levels and fire prevention. Therefore, the success of the building enclosure depends on addressing the interior environment.

Exterior-Environmental Loadings

Exterior environment loadings occur due to climate (weather, hurricanes, flooding), human (smog, global warming), or nature (fire, seismic, pests). Therefore a high-performing building enclosure must provide resistance against water, wind, fire, radon, flood, earthquake, termites, and hydrostatic pressure. The durability and long-term integrity of the building or home depend on a building enclosure with all these protections.

Building Enclosure Functions

Building enclosures provide three physical functions:

Support Functions resist, transfer, and accommodate all the structural forms of loading imposed by the interior and exterior environments, the enclosure, and the building, often acting as an integral part of the building superstructure.
Control Functions regulate and moderate all the loadings due to the separation of the interior and exterior environments – the flow of mass (moisture, air, etc.) and energy (sound, heat, UV, etc.).
Finish Functions of the enclosure surface ⎯ the envelope interfaces with the exterior and interior environments. Each interface must meet the relevant visual, aesthetic, durability, and other performance requirements.

Attributes of a High-Performing Building Enclosure

A high-quality building enclosure must manage every loading to ensure long-term, successful performance and include both physical and qualitative attributes.

Simple and quick construction
Durability and long-term integrity
Superior aesthetics
Sustainability
Safety to occupants
Low-maintenance and repair needs
Financial savings during and after construction

Sto Building Enclosure Wall Systems

Sto’s integrated building enclosure systems effectively deliver a single solution for all the requirements of a high-performing building enclosure wall system, streamlining the process for contractors and installers and saving time and money. In addition, our building enclosure wall systems offer endless choices in styles, textures, and colors for creating aesthetically pleasing facades with eye-catching curb appeal. You can combine several facades in a single system without product compatibility design and transition challenges.

Sto building enclosure systems include control layers that protect the building from exterior environmental elements and also create a healthy, comfortable interior for the occupants.

• An air barrier lessens energy use and condensation by limiting unwanted airflow through the wall system.
• A permeable or impermeable (per designer specification) vapor retarder minimizes condensation by stopping the flow of water vapor as it moves from high to low-pressure areas.
• A water-resistant barrier flashes to the cladding’s exterior to stop water from infiltrating the wall cavity.
• A thermal barrier minimizes energy loss and stops thermal bridging.
• A water-shedding and durable facade protects against weather, UV exposure, pollutants, and more.

Sto products are also dependability fortified by third-party testing and code compliance, including fire testing (NFPA-285). We cover all of our wall systems with a single-source warranty.

1. StoPanel Systems Prefabricated Exterior Wall Panels

Sto’s prefabrication solution, Sto Panel® Technology, provides finished exterior wall panels. The StoPanel® system panels consist of an air barrier, water-resistant barrier, cold-formed metal framing, and applicable components, including continuous insulation (ci), sub-framing, glass mat sheathing, and facade aesthetic.

Prefabrication provides many significant advantages:

• Helps to stay on budget
• ݈Lessens delivery time and labor needs
• Improves quality control and assurance
• Boosts job site safety
• Reduces construction waste

StoPanel® Classic NExT ci

StoPanel® Classic NExT ci prefabricated wall panel is comprised of gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and StoTherm® ci facade

StoPanel® MVES

StoPanel® MVES prefabricated wall panel includes gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and Sto’s Masonry Veneer Engineered System (MVES) facade with Adhered Masonry Veneer (AMV) – natural stone, ceramic tile, cultured stone, or thin brick.

StoPanel® Mineral ci

StoPanel® Mineral ci prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and StoTherm® Mineral ci facade.

StoPanel® Dri-Design®

StoPanel® Dri-Design® prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and Dri-Design® metal facade.

StoPanel® Swisspearl®

StoPanel® Swisspearl® prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and Swisspearl fiber cement facade.

StoPanel® Impact ci

StoPanel® Impact ci prefabricated wall panels comprise steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and StoTherm ci system, designed specifically for small and large missile impact performance.

StoPanel® 3DP Powered by Branch Technology

Sto Panel Technology® and Branch Technology work together to create a superior 3-dimensional design for exterior walls. Prefabricated, panelized walls combine the building enclosure layers into a customizable 3D printed lightweight, strong, and simple-to-install composite shape. In addition, the Branch’s unique Cellular Fabrication (C-Fab®) 3D printing process permits you to produce a unique and highly functional architectural facade panel in endless forms or shapes.

StoPanel® Brick

StoPanel® Brick prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, thin masonry veneers, or thin brick.

StoPanel® XPS

StoPanel® XPS prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and StoTherm® ci facade that includes Extruded Polystyrene Foam Insulation.

StoPanel® Metal

StoPanel® Metal prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and metal cladding.

StoPanel® Backup

StoPanel® Backup prefabricated wall panels include an air barrier, steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and water-resistant barrier. Builders apply the facade on-site.

StoPanel® Precast

StoPanel® Precast prefabricated wall panel includes gypsum sheathing, steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and various integral decorative and protective finish options to replicate precast concrete.

2. StoVentec® Rainscreen® Systems

Rainscreen claddings protect against moisture damage (especially essential with water-absorbing claddings) by providing a ventilation gap between the siding and air and water-resistant barrier. The small gap (as tiny as ½-inch) permits adequate drainage and drying.

StoVentec® Systems provide a complete, code-approved, fully-tested, high-performance ventilated Rainscreen® system comprised of air and water-resistant barrier, non-combustible mineral wool insulation, an easy-to-install, adjustable sub-framing assembly, and our impressive StoVentec® Rainscreen® cladding.

In the U.S., StoVentec® back-ventilated rainscreen cladding systems offer numerous finishes, providing architects with many aesthetic choices to create distinctive building facades with exceptional engineered performance features.

StoVentec® Masonry Veneer Facades

StoVentec® for masonry veneer facades offer a back-ventilated rainscreen wall system with aesthetic options of tile, thin brick, and masonry.

StoVentec® Glass

StoVentec® Glass provides an open joint, drained, and back-ventilated rainscreen wall system with an opaque glass facade, offering aesthetic choices of back-colored glass, frosted glass, and custom printed glass.

StoVentec® Render

StoVentec® Render drained and back-ventilated rainscreen wall system offers aesthetic opinions of Stolit Lotusan self-cleaning textured finish, Sto textured finish, and StoCast, Sto’s prefabricated resin cast shapes.

3. StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems combine aesthetic and protective elements into a superior wall system, including StoGuard® fluid-applied air and water-resistant barrier, StoPowerwall® Stucco, and Sto textured coatings and finishes that keep out moisture while furnishing many choices in design. In addition, Sto systems include the Sto DrainScreen drainage mat for additional moisture protection and optional Sto Crack Defense, a fortification layer for crack prevention.

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen MVES

The StoPowerwall® DrainScreen MVES stucco wall assembly with masonry, thin brick, tile, or cultured stone veneer, includes the moisture protection of StoGuard® air and water-resistant barrier and Sto DrainScreen to minimize the risk of water accumulation.

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen

The StoPowerwall® DrainScreen Stucco wall system combines the strength and durability of traditional stucco with StoGuard moisture protection, Sto high-performance finishes, and Sto DrainScreen; however, it does not include insulation.

StoPowerwall® ExtraSeal®

The StoPowerwall® ExtraSeal® stucco wall system applies directly to concrete masonry units, with Sto ExtraSeal moisture and air protection.

StoPowerwall® HI Wall Panel System

The StoPowerwall® HI stucco wall system includes continuous air and moisture barrier and drainage. It combines the durability and strength of traditional stucco with StoGuard moisture protection and Sto Armor Mat XX Mesh for additional impact resistance and reinforcement. It also meets the testing requirements for large and small missile impacts.

4. StoQuik® Silver Systems Cement Board Stucco

StoQuik® Silver Systems combines the moisture protection of StoGuard air and water-resistant barrier with the strength of a cement board substrate, a drainage mat for draining and drying, and the versatile performance and design choices of Sto’s textured finishes – reducing the moisture exposure, complex installation, and labor steps of traditional stucco.

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™MVES

The weather-resistant, high-impact StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ MVES cement board stucco system offers excellent moisture protection with natural stone, ceramic tile, manufactured stone, or thin brick stone veneer for exterior vertical above-grade walls in low-rise commercial, institutional, and residential construction.

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™

Durable, StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ cement board stucco system provides improved water drainage and superior energy efficiency.

5. Drainable EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing System) – StoTherm® ci Wall Systems

StoTherm® ci cladding systems integrate continuous insulation, air and water-resistant barriers, drainage, and many aesthetic finish options to create a high-performance, sustainable building enclosure system. The durable and eye-catching system maintains maximum curb appeal and saves money through reduced energy bills.

StoTherm® ci MVES

StoTherm® ci MVES (masonry veneer engineered system) integrate continuous insulation, air and water-resistant barrier, drainage and Sto’s high strength masonry veneer adhesive.. It can be used with thin brick, natural stone, ceramic tile, or manufactured stone that is in conformance with applicable building code requirements.

StoTherm® ci Mineral

The StoTherm® ci Mineral system incorporates non-combustible, mineral wool insulation and continuous air and water-resistant barrier with Sto’s high-quality finishes to produce an advanced high-performance building enclosure wall system.

StoTherm® ci XPS

High-performance, durable StoTherm® ci XPSincorporates high R-value extruded polystyrene insulation into the wall assembly and StoGuard® fluid-applied air and water-resistant barrier, to create a watertight air wall ensuring superior durability and thermal efficiency.

StoTherm® ci

StoTherm® ci combines StoTherm® and the StoGuard® waterproof air barrier systems for improved energy efficiency and protection against moisture infiltration.

StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180

Hurricane-resistant, high-performing, and energy-efficient StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180 provides a continuous insulation wall system that integrates StoGuard® waterproof air barrier and StoTherm® insulated cladding and drainage abilities over concrete masonry unit substrates. In addition, the StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180’s engineering meets the strict Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA criteria for small and large missile impact resistance, wind load resistance, and air and water infiltration.

StoTherm® ci 1177-LM

High-performance StoTherm® ci 1177-LM exterior wall cladding system integrates a seamless air and water-resistant barrier with continuous insulation, advanced drainage abilities, and Sto® Armor Mat XX Mesh for added reinforcement and impact resistance compared to glass mat gypsum sheathing. The engineering of StoTherm® ci 1177-LM meets the strict Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA testing standards for small and large and missile impact resistance and performance on 16-gauge steel studs with gypsum sheathing.

StoTherm® ci 1177-SM

High-performance StoTherm® ci 1177-SM exterior wall cladding assembly integrates a seamless air and water-resistant barrier with continuous insulation and advanced drainage abilities compared to glass mat gypsum sheathing. In addition, the engineering of StoTherm® ci 1177-SM meets the strict Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA standards for small missile impact resistance, wind load resistance, and air and water infiltration.

StoTherm® ci HI-PLY

High-performance StoTherm® ci HI-PLY exterior wall cladding assembly combines a seamless air and water-resistant barrier with continuous insulation and advanced drainage abilities over CDX exterior plywood sheathing. In addition, the engineering of StoTherm® ci HI-PLY meets the strict Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA testing standards for large and small missile impact resistance, wind load resistance, and air and water infiltration.

6. Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems

Sto Masonry Veneer Engineered Systems (MVES) offer various choices for integrating popular masonry veneer surfaces into any architectural layout. These thoroughly engineered, high-performance, and lightweight systems give you the endless design flexibility to showcase the aesthetic of brick, tile, brick, or a combination with Sto’s expansive range of architectural surfaces.

StoTherm® ci MVES

Lightweight, energy-efficient system StoTherm® ci MVES offers an engineered insulating wall system with Adhered Masonry Veneer (AMV) – natural stone, thin brick, stone, ceramic tile, or cultured stone. It combines superior weather and air tightness with outstanding thermal performance and durability.

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen MVES

StoPowerwall DrainScreen MVES comprises a Portland cement stucco wall system with Adhered Masonry Veneer (AMV) – natural stone, thin brick, ceramic tile, or cultured stone. It combines the durability and strength of portland cement stucco with Sto’s enhanced strength masonry veneer adhesive and the moisture protection of Sto’s innovated cavity wall design with StoGuard® air and water-resistant barriers.

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ MVES

High-impact, weather-resistant StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ cement board stucco system provides superior moisture protection for exterior vertical above-grade walls in low-rise commercial, institutional, and residential construction. It also achieves the beautiful aesthetic of masonry veneers like ceramic tiles, thin bricks, natural stone, manufactured stone, and culture stones. It combines the high strength of cement board substrate with StoGuard® air and water-resistant barrier and features Sto DrainScreen technology to promote excellent drainage and drying of the wall system. It also includes StoColl masonry veneer adhesive, a high-performance polymer modified Portland cement thin-set adhesive to create an advanced engineered building enclosure system.

StoVentec® for masonry veneer facades

Drained and back ventilated StoVentec® for masonry veneer facades offers a fully engineered Rainscreen® wall system with a thin brick facade. The complete system includes continuous insulation, sub-construction, and continuous air and water-resistant barrier. Combining the internationally proven performance of the StoVentec® rainscreen system with the durability of thin brick masonry veneer offers building enclosure designers both the flexibility of form and function when combined with Sto’s other engineered wall systems.

StoPanel MVES

StoPanel® MVES prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and Adhered Masonry Veneer (AMV) – thin brick, ceramic tile, and natural or cultured stone. The complete wall system combines outstanding air and weather tightness with superior thermal performance and durability with Sto high-strength masonry veneer adhesive.

7. Specialty Building Enclosure Systems

Our building enclosure systems include a series of special wall assemblies engineered to meet particular building enclosure design requirements and accommodate different building substrates like Aerated Autoclave Concrete or Insulated Concrete Forms.

StoQuik® Gold System for Soffits and Ceilings

Sto provides a direct-applied Exterior Finish System (DEFS) for weather-protecting walls and un-insulated exterior soffit and ceiling applications.

Sto Interior Finish System for Pool Rooms

Sto offers a specialized decorative and protective finished system for interior walls and ceilings of residential or commercial indoor swimming pool rooms.

Sto ICF Coating System

A Sto decorative and protective finish system for Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction

Sto AAC Finish System

Sto offers a decorative and protective finish system for above-grade exterior AAC wall construction.

Sto ICF Insulated Finish System

Sto provides a decorative and protective finish system for Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction.

Why Choose Sto’s High-Performance Building Enclosure Systems?

Sto’s building enclosure systems include all the control layers required for a high-performance system. Easy to install, time-saving Sto systems combine all the wall components in a single unit:

• Continuous insulation
• Sub-framing system
• Air barriers
• Water-resistant barriers
• Endless aesthetic facade surface options accommodating all your designs

For more on high-performance building enclosure systems, don’t hesitate to contact our knowledgeable Sto professionals today.

The post Building Enclosure Systems in Architecture appeared first on Sto Corp..

The effectiveness of the exterior finish depends entirely on installing it correctly and professionally. Therefore, ICF exterior finishings that install simply and efficiently will improve your chances of the long-term durability of the wall system. Fortunately, Sto ICF Finish Systems offer a single-source solution for creating an ICF exterior wall and finishing solution, to ensure its appealing, long-lasting curb appeal.

Sto Offers the Best ICF Exterior Finishing Solutions

Sto’s specialized finish systems offer an ICF above-grade wall assembly in three finish system options for new construction. Each option offers long-lasting protection, to provide endless exterior finishing solutions with an expansive range of color and texture choices.

Sto ICF Exterior Finishing Options

Sto recommends the finishing option based on the shape of the wall, the ties location on the foam, and the need for extra insulation and a harder finishing surface.

Option 1: Sto ICF – Coating System

We recommend Option 1, a multiple-layer decorative and protective finish system, for straight, flat ICF walls requiring little leveling, with ties embedded at least 1/2 inch inside the ICF form. Option 1 utilizes a Sto base coat, an optional Sto primer, reinforcing mesh, and a Sto finish.

Sto ICF Coating System provides,

• Direct application on exterior above-grade ICF wall construction
• Barrier wall construction drainage
• Energy efficiency with the continuous exterior insulation of the ICF
• Air and moisture protection with ICF Barrier wall construction with a concrete air barrier
• The reinforcing mesh embedded in the base coat provides standard impact resistance.

Option 2: StoTherm® ci Cladding Systems

We recommend Option 2 for non-straight and non-flat walls requiring leveling and ties less than 1/2 inch inside the foam. Option 2 also works best if you need additional continuous insulation on the building’s exterior. The insulation will help promote energy efficiency and meet the current building codes of your climate zone.

StoTherm® ci cladding systems add continuous insulation to the exterior and include reinforcing mesh, an optional Sto Primer, and one of the many Sto textured finishes to create a sustainable, high-performance wall cladding. The unique and durable system sustains maximum curb appeal and saves money through lower energy bills.

StoTherm® ci Cladding Systems offer,

• StoTherm® ci Cladding Systems apply on the exterior above-grade ICF wall for new construction
• Drainage wall construction, when properly integrated with flashing
• Premium energy efficiency due to the addition of exterior CI to the ICF
• Air and moisture protection with ICF backup wall construction with StoTherm® continuous insulation system
• The reinforcing mesh embedded in the base coat provides medium impact resistance.

Option 3: Sto ICF – Stucco System

We recommend the Stucco Coating System if you need a harder finishing surface. StoPowerwall Stucco includes stucco, a metal lath, Sto Primer, and a Sto finish. The combination ensures the long-term durability and strength of traditional stucco with StoGuard moisture protection and Sto high-performance with finishes and coatings that keep moisture out. The system also provides a variety of design options.

Sto ICF Stucco System provides,

• Sto ICF Stucco System applies on exterior above-grade ICF new wall construction with metal lath and paper backing anchored into ICF web ties or concrete.
• Limited drainage when integrated adequately with flashing
• High energy efficiency due to the continuous insulation of the ICF
• Moisture and air protection with the ICF backup wall construction and code-compliant WRB with StoPowerwall® Stucco Finish System

Sto’s Architectural Coatings and Textured Finishes for ICF

Sto offers a wide range of attractive, durable, and dirt- and water-resistant finishes that produce a flexible, strong layer of protection. We manufacture our finishes in ISO-certified facilities to meet strict quality control standards. Our finishing products contain pure white marble aggregate and 100-percent acrylic polymers that come in a variety of textures, profiles, and an extensive range of colors, to enhance your design and harmonize with the surrounding environment.

Sto Specialty ICF Finishes

Sto Specialty Finishes offer durability, long-term performance, and substantial cost savings. In addition, our lightweight, easy-to-install finishes lessen structural requirements, require fewer specialty trades, and save money compared to traditional cladding material. Sto Specialty Finishes come in endless design choices to accommodate the aesthetics and designs for the exterior of any home or building.

StoCast Brick

Lightweight, flexible, easy-to-apply, and durable custom-made resin cast bricks come in 30 standard brick colors, patterns, and textures, providing an ideal solution for projects calling for the look of traditional or customized “classic” brick.

StoCast Wood

Lightweight, flexible, resin-cast wood grain planks stained with StoColor® Wood Stain
(available in a wide range of colors in glossy or matte finish) or coated with Sto’s high-performance architectural coatings create an authentic wood appearance. Durable StoCast provides a low-maintenance alternative to natural or engineered wood cladding.

StoColor Metallic

StoColor® Metallic achieves a metallic panel appearance in various colors and textures by combining StoColor Metallic Top Coat (a lightweight acrylic-based coating with metallic effect pigments) applied over StoColor Metallic Base. The two layers create luminous depth, allowing subtle light-induced color shifts to produce a dynamic metal look.

StoTique®

StoTique coating achieves an antique-speckled or another custom decorative effect. You can use it over existing EIFS, stucco, painted wall surfaces, or any Sto textured or smooth finish coating.

StoCreativ® Lux

StoCreativ® Lux wall finish combines the texture and depth of natural stone with the luster of reflective materials, costing just a fraction of real stone or metal. The versatility of this lightweight, trowel-applied finish allows for use in interior and exterior design applications. Durable StoCreativ® Lux comes in six different looks and works well with extremely intricate architectural shapes.

StoCreativ® Granite

Durable and low-maintenance StoCreativ® Granite offers an acrylic-based exterior and interior wall finish for new construction or renovation. The design of trowel-applied StoCreativ® Granite gives it the look of cut or polished granite but in a lightweight, versatile finish coating.

Sto GraniTex™

Low-maintenance, durable, Sto GraniTex™ provides an acrylic-based interior and exterior wall finish for new construction and renovation. Spray-applied Sto GraniTex™ comes in various color combinations designed to feel and look like natural stones.

Sto Offers the Best ICF Exterior Finishing Solution

Easy-to-install Sto ICF Finish Systems offer a single-source solution to creating aesthetically beautiful exterior buildings and homes. Sto ICF exterior finishing options also produce durable, low-maintenance, long-lasting, and energy-efficient wall systems in an extensive range of colors, textures, and profiles to meet all your aesthetic and performance requirements.

For more on the best ICF exterior finishing solution, contact the Sto professionals today at (800) 221-2397.

The post The Best ICF Exterior Finishing Solution appeared first on Sto Corp..

The design of the cladding system must ensure durability, sustainability, and energy efficiency. The building cladding influences the look and feel of the surrounding area, so it should give visitors a memorable first impression of the building.

What is a Cladding System?

The building cladding refers to all the building components that are attached to its primary structure (parts that keep it standing), that form the external, non-structural surfaces. Often, cladding attaches to the building’s structural frame as prefabricated panels, whether it’s cladding systems for high-rise buildings or residential homes.

A high-performing cladding for buildings provides more than just a building’s exterior facade and aesthetics. Quality building cladding systems:

• Protect the structures from external elements (rain, snow, wind, ice)
• Minimize the spread of fire
• Provide thermal insulation to create air tight building envelope to manage the inside environment
• Transfer impact and wind loads to the structural framework
• Provide privacy and security and prevent the transmission of sound
• Provide openings for ventilation, daylight, and access

Properly-installed, high-quality, well-designed cladding materials for buildings minimize air leakage, maximize thermal performance, and optimize natural daylight. These features lessen the need for electrical and mechanical systems and contribute toward a sustainable, energy-efficient, safe, and durable building.

The Four D’s of High-Quality Cladding Systems

High-quality cladding systems must provide consistent deflection, drainage, drying, and durability:

1. Drainage refers to cladding materials’ capacity to allow water that gets behind the outer surface to drain. Applying a water-resistant barrier over the sheathing and a drainage gap between the sheathing and the cladding can provide adequate drainage. However, stucco cladding, which can’t handle large volumes of water, often needs enhanced drainage, requiring a drainage mat to increase the space between the cement membrane and WRB. The space permits more accessible water flow down and out from within the cladding.
2. Deflection refers to the cladding’s ability to consistently deflect ice, snow, and rain that attacks the outside wall surface. In addition, you can assist the water deflection with gutters and overhangs.
3. Drying refers to a cladding system’s permeability or ability to permit ventilation within the system to encourage drying. Building codes often require vapor-permeable exterior cladding to permit moisture or condensation to travel through it as a vapor when heated by the sun. Including open space at the top and base of the wall cladding will allow airflow and additional drying.
4. Durability refers to the cladding system’s ability to resist continuous exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, thermal contraction and expansion, and wetting-and-drying cycles. Durable cladding systems will help stop leaks and protect the building envelope’s integrity.

Other essential features to consider when choosing a high-performance cladding system include:

• Ease of installation
• Continuous insulation, adequate airtightness, and control of thermal movement
• Low-maintenance
• Fire resistance

Sto High-Performance Cladding Systems

Sto offers various simple and quick-to-install, high-quality cladding systems that meet the requirements for water drainage and deflection, permeability, airtightness, fire resistance, low maintenance, and long-lasting durability, to preserve a building’s integrity for its lifetime. We cover every feature of our wall systems under a single-system warranty.

Our systems combine all of the wall components into one tested, code-compliant system: continuous thermal insulation, air and water-resistive barrier, and endless aesthetic facade surface choices to meet all the needs of your design. In addition, you can combine several facade aesthetics into one system without transitions and product compatibility design difficulties.

Our tested systems at Sto also ensure that all components work together as mandated by today’s building codes:

• Sto high-performance wall systems provide air leakage below 0.04 cfm/ft2 at 1.57 psf (0.2 L/s•m2 at 75Pa) when tested according to ASTM E2357 – a feature that potentially saves 40 percent in cooling and heating costs.
• Sto’s wall cladding’s high R-value ( e.g. StoTherm® has an R-Value of 3.6 per inch) limits thermal bridging and lessens energy use. 
• Sto products achieve a Class A rating when tested in accordance with ASTM 84 for Flame Spread and Smoke Development.
• Sto walls have achieved several sustainable credentials:
  • Manufactured in ISO 9001 (Quality) and ISO 14001 (Environmental)  certified factories
  • SCAQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District) VOC requirements
  • C-ES durability and fire protection criteria
• Sto wall systems that contain combustible insulation or other combustible elements meet the requirements of:
  • NFPA 268 fire testing, which offers a method to assess the chance for a fire in one building to ignite a nearby building.
  • NFPA 285 fire testing, which evaluates the fire performance of wall assemblies with combustible insulation or other combustible components in noncombustible construction.
  • ASTM E 119 fire testing, which establishes the hourly fire-resistance rating of the wall assembly.

30 Sto High-Performance Cladding Systems

Drainable EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing System) – StoTherm® ci Wall Systems

StoTherm® ci cladding systems combine continuous insulation (ci), drainage, air and water-resistive barrier, and many aesthetic finish options to create a sustainable, high-performance wall cladding. The beautiful and durable system maintains long-lasting curb appeal and saves money through reduced energy bills.

1. StoTherm® ci MVES

StoTherm® ci MVES (masonry veneer engineered systems) with masonry veneer in ceramic tile, natural stone, or manufactured stone conforms to relevant building code requirements.

2. StoTherm® ci Mineral

The StoTherm® ci Mineral system incorporates non-combustible, mineral wool insulation and continuous water-restrictive and air barrier with Sto’s high-performance finishes to create an advanced high-quality wall cladding system.

3. StoTherm® ci XPS

High-performance and durable StoTherm® ci XPS incorporates elevated R-value extruded polystyrene insulation into the wall assembly and StoGuard® fluid-applied air and water-resistive barrier, to produce a water and airtight wall, and ensure thermal efficiency and superior durability.

4. StoTherm® ci

StoTherm® ci combines StoTherm® and the StoGuard® air and water-resistive barrier system for increased energy efficiency and protection against moisture infiltration.

5. StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180

Energy-efficient, high-performing, and hurricane-resistant StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180 is a continuous insulation wall cladding that combines StoGuard® waterproof air barrier, StoTherm® insulated cladding, and drainage. In addition, the StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180’s engineering meets the strict Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA criteria for small and large missile impact resistance, water and air infiltration, and wind load resistance.

6. StoTherm® ci 1177-LM

The high-performance StoTherm® ci 1177-LM exterior wall cladding system combines seamless air and water-resistive barrier with continuous insulation, advanced drainage potential, and Sto® Armor Mat XX Mesh for added reinforcement and impact resistance over glass mat gypsum sheathing. The engineering of StoTherm® ci 1177-LM meets the strict Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA testing criteria for small and large missile impact resistance and performance on 16-gauge steel studs with gypsum sheathing.

7. StoTherm® ci 1177-SM

The StoTherm® ci 1177-SM exterior wall cladding system combines seamless water and air barrier with continuous insulation and advanced drainage potential over glass mat gypsum sheathing. In addition, the engineering of StoTherm® ci 1177-SM meets the stringent Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA standard for small missile impact resistance, water and air infiltration, and wind load resistance.

8. StoTherm® ci HI-PLY

The StoTherm® ci HI-PLY exterior wall cladding system combines seamless water-restrictive and air barrier with continuous insulation and advanced drainage potential over CDX exterior plywood sheathing. In addition, the engineering of StoTherm® ci HI-Ply meets the strict Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA testing standard for small and large missile impact resistance, water and air infiltration, and wind load resistance.

StoVentec® Rainscreen Systems

Rainscreen claddings protect against damaging moisture (especially crucial with water-absorbing claddings) by providing a ventilation gap between the siding and water and air barrier. A small gap (as tiny as ½-inch) permits adequate drainage and drying.

StoVentec® Systems are a complete, fully-tested, and code-approved high-quality ventilated Rainscreen® system that includes water-restrictive and air barrier, non-combustible mineral wool insulation, an installer-friendly, adjustable sub-framing system, and our outstanding StoVentec® Rainscreen® cladding.

In the U.S., StoVentec® ventilated rainscreen cladding systems come in several finishes to provide designers with a range of aesthetic options to create unique building facades with high-performance engineered characteristics.

9. StoVentec® for Masonry Veneer Facades

StoVentec® masonry veneer facades provide a drained and back-ventilated rainscreen wall system with aesthetic options of thin brick, tile, and masonry.

10.StoVentec® Glass

StoVentec® Glass is an open joint, drained, and back-ventilated rainscreen wall system with an opaque glass facade in aesthetic options of back-colored glass, custom printed glass, and frosted glass.

11. StoVentec® Render

StoVentec® Render is a drained and back-ventilated rainscreen wall assembly that offers performative aesthetics including Sto textured finishes, Stolit Lotusan self-cleaning textured finish, Sto specialty finishes and Sto Cast, Sto’s prefabricated resin cast shapes.

StoPanel Technology Systems Prefabricated Exterior Wall Panels

Sto’s prefabrication solution, Sto Panel Technology®, is finished exterior wall panels. The StoPanel® system panels contain cold-formed metal framing and other applicable components, including glass mat sheathing, continuous insulation, water-restrictive and air barrier, sub-framing, and a facade aesthetic. Thermally insulating the exterior of the wall structure with continuous insulation makes them compliant with the latest standards and codes (ASHRAE 90.1-2019 and IBC, IRC, and IECC – 2018 and 2021).

Prefabrication provides several significant benefits:

• Helps to stay on budget
• Lessens change orders
• ݈Lowers delivery time and labor needs
• Improves quality control and assurance
• Boosts job site safety
• Reduces construction wastes

12. StoPanel® Classic NExT ci

StoPanel® Classic NExT ci prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and StoTherm® ci facade.

13. StoPanel® Mineral ci

StoPanel® Mineral ci prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, non-combustible continuous insulation, continuous air and water-resistive barrier and a wide variety of Sto textured and specialty finishes.

14. StoPanel MVES

StoPanel® MVES prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and Adhered Masonry Veneer (AMV) – thin brick, ceramic tile, natural stone, or cultured stone.

15. StoPanel® Impact ci

StoPanel® Impact ci prefabricated wall panel includes gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and a StoTherm ci system, designed to meet the Miami-Dade small and large missile impact requirements.

16. StoPanel® Dri-Design®

StoPanel® Dri-Design® prefabricated wall panel includes gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and Dri-Design® metal facade.

17. StoPanel® Swisspearl®

StoPanel® Swisspearl® prefabricated wall panel includes gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and Swisspearl fiber cement facade.

18. StoPanel® 3DP Powered by Branch Technology

Sto Panel Technology® and Branch Technology creates a superior 3-dimensional design for exterior walls. The prefabricated, panelized wall combines the building envelope layers into a customizable 3D printed lightweight, easy-to-install, robust, and composite shape. In addition, the branch’s unique Cellular Fabrication (C-Fab®) 3D printing process can create a highly unique and functional architectural facade panel in virtually any form or shape.

19. StoPanel® XPS

StoPanel® XPS prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and StoTherm® ci facade that includes Extruded Polystyrene Foam Insulation.

20. StoPanel® Brick

StoPanel® Brick prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing and steel framing, with thin masonry or brick veneers.

21. StoPanel® Precast

StoPanel® Precast prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and various integral decorative and protective finish choices to replicate precast concrete.

22. StoPanel® Metal

StoPanel® Metal prefabricated wall panels include gypsum sheathing, steel framing, and metal facade.

23. StoPanel® Backup

StoPanel® Backup prefabricated wall panels contain steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and an air/water-restrictive barrier. Builders apply the facade on-site.

StoQuik® Silver Systems Cement Board Stucco

StoQuik® Silver Systems combine the moisture protection of StoGuard air and water-resistive barrier with the draining and drying of a drainage mat, the strength of a cement board substrate, and the versatile performance and selections of Sto’s textured finishes – without complicated installation, moisture exposures, and labor steps of traditional stucco.

24. StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™

Durable StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ cement board stucco system provides excellent energy efficiency and improved water drainage.

25. StoQuik Silver® DrainScreen™ MVES

High-impact and weather-resistant StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ cement board stucco system provides superior moisture protection for exterior vertical above-grade walls in low-rise commercial, institutional, and residential construction. It combines the StoGuard® air and water-restrictive barrier with the strength of cement board substrate while achieving the aesthetic of masonry veneers such as thin bricks, natural stone, ceramic tiles, and manufactured and culture stones

In addition, StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ features Sto DrainScreen technology to promote superior drainage and drying of the wall system. It also incorporates StoColl masonry veneer adhesive, a high-performance polymer modified portland cement thin-set adhesive to produce an advanced engineered wall cladding system.

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems

26. StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems provide fully-tested stucco systems with superior moisture management and comprehensive design options, to ensure low-maintenance and durable claddings with all the protection and energy efficiency of StoGuard®.

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems combine protective and aesthetic elements into a superior wall cladding, including StoGuard® fluid-applied moisture and air barrier, StoPowerwall® Stucco, and Sto textured finishes and coatings that keep out moisture while furnishing many design options. In addition, Sto systems include the Sto DrainScreen drainage mat for added moisture protection and optional Crack Defense, an added fortification layer for preventing cracking.

27. StoPowerwall® DrainScreen MVES

The StoPowerwall® DrainScreen MVES stucco wall assembly with masonry, thin brick, tile, or cultured stone veneer, includes the moisture protection of StoGuard® water-restrictive and air barrier and Sto DrainScreen to lessen the risk of water accumulation.

28. StoPowerwall® ci

StoPowerwall® ci energy-efficient stucco wall assemblies include continuous insulation of outbound extruded polystyrene (EPS).

29. StoPowerwall® ExtraSeal®

The StoPowerwall® ExtraSeal® stucco wall system applies directly to concrete masonry units with Sto ExtraSeal moisture and air protection.

30. StoPowerwall® DrainScreen

The StoPowerwall® DrainScreen stucco wall systems integrate the durability and strength of traditional stucco with StoGuard moisture protection, Sto DrainScreen, and Sto high-performance finishes. However, it does not include insulation.

Why Select Sto’s High-Performance Cladding Systems?

Sto’s 30 cladding systems offer all the crucial components a high-performance cladding system needs to provide moisture protection through deflecting, draining, and evaporating moisture on the inside and outside of the wall assembly. They also create energy-efficient, long-lasting, and durable cladding systems.

Furthermore, quick and easy-to-install, Sto systems integrate all the wall components into one unit:

• Air and water-resistive barrier
• Continuous insulation
• Reinforcement system
• Endless aesthetic facade surface options to accommodate all the needs of your designs without the design challenges of transitions between systems

Download our comprehensive guide on engineered building enclosures today for more on high-performance cladding systems.

The post 30 High Performance Cladding Systems appeared first on Sto Corp..

The design must ensure the building cladding systems’ durability, energy efficiency, and sustainability. The cladding’s aesthetic appeal for high-rise buildings or modest homes provides the structure’s first impression and influences the feel and look of the surrounding environment.

What Is a Cladding System?

The building cladding refers to all the components attached to the building’s primary structure (parts that keep a structure standing), and form the non-structural, external surfaces. Often, cladding attaches to the structural frame of the building as prefabricated panels.

A high-performing cladding system provides much more than just a building’s exterior facade and aesthetics. Quality cladding systems:

• Transfer wind and impact loads to the structural framework
• Protect the structures from external elements (rain, wind, snow, ice)
• Provide thermal insulation to create an airtight building envelope, to control the inside environment
• Provide security and privacy, and prevent the transmission of sound
• Limit the spread of fire
• Provide openings for daylight, ventilation, and access

High-quality, properly-installed, and well-designed cladding materials for buildings minimize air leakage, maximize thermal performance, and optimize natural daylighting. These features lessen the need for mechanical and electrical service, and contribute towards a sustainable, energy-efficient, safe, and durable building.

The Four D’s of High-Performance Cladding Systems

High-performance cladding systems must provide effective deflection, drainage, drying, and durability:

1. Deflection refers to an exterior building’s cladding’s ability to deflect rain, ice, and snow that hits the outer wall surface. Designers can assist the cladding’s water deflection with overhangs and gutters. 
2. Drainage refers to cladding materials for buildings’ capacity to permit water that finds its way behind the outer surface to drain. Architects and builders can handle this with an application of a water-resistant barrier over the sheathing and a drainage gap between the sheathing and the cladding. However, stucco cladding, which can’t deal with large volumes of water, requires enhanced drainage that uses a drainage mat to increase the space between the WRB and cement membrane. The space allows more accessible water flow down and within the cladding.
3. Drying refers to a cladding system’s permeability or ability to allow ventilation within the system to encourage drying. Building codes typically require vapor-permeable exterior cladding, to allow moisture or condensation to pass through it as a vapor when warmed by the sun. Including open space at the base and top of the wall cladding will allow airflow and additional drying. 
4. The durability of a cladding refers to the system and its components’ ability to withstand continued and repeated exposure to ultraviolet rays, thermal expansion and contraction, and wetting-and-drying cycles. Durable cladding systems will help prevent leaks and protect the building envelope.

However, other vital features you should consider when selecting a high-performance cladding system include:

• Sufficient airtightness, continuous insulation, and control of thermal movement
• Fire resistance
• Low maintenance
• Ease of installation

5 Sto High-Performance Cladding Systems for Buildings

Sto offers various easy-to-install, high-performance cladding systems, that all meet the requirements for water deflection and drainage, the ability to dry out, airtightness, fire resistance, low maintenance, and the durability to last the lifetime of the building.

Our systems integrate all the wall components into one tested, code compliant system: air and moisture barrier, continuous thermal insulation, and numerous aesthetic facade surface options to accommodate all your design needs. You can combine multiple facades in a single system without transitions and product compatibility design challenges. 

Our tested systems also ensure that all components work together as mandated by today’s building codes. We cover all the features of our wall systems under a single system warranty.

1. StoVentec® Rainscreen Systems

Rainscreen claddings protect against the effects of moisture (especially vital with water-absorbing claddings) by providing a ventilation gap between the siding and air and moisture barrier. The small gap (as little as ½-inch) allows for proper drainage and drying.

StoVentec® Systems offer a complete, fully-tested, and code-approved high-performance ventilated Rainscreen® system that includes an air and moisture barrier, non combustible mineral wool insulation, an installer-friendly, adjustable sub-framing system, and our impressive StoVentec® Rainscreen® cladding. 

In the U.S., StoVentec® ventilated rainscreen cladding systems come in several finishes, in order to provide designers with a range of aesthetic choices to create distinctive building facades with highly engineered performance characteristics.

StoVentec® Masonry Veneer Facades

StoVentec® masonry veneer facades offer a drained and back-ventilated rainscreen wall system with aesthetic options of thin brick, masonry, and tile.

StoVentec® Glass

StoVentec® Glass provides an open joint, drained, and back-ventilated rainscreen wall system with an opaque glass facade, offering aesthetic choices of back-colored glass, frosted glass, and custom printed glass.

StoVentec® Render

StoVentec® Render is a drained and back-ventilated rainscreen wall system, offering aesthetic opinions of Sto textured finish, Stolit Lotusan self-cleaning textured finish, and StoCast, Sto’s prefabricated resin cast shapes.

2. StoPanel Systems Prefabricated Exterior Wall Panels

Sto’s prefabrication solution, Sto Panel Technology®, features finished exterior wall panels. The StoPanel® system panels consist of cold-formed metal framing and other applicable components, including continuous insulation (ci), glass mat sheathing, air and moisture barrier, sub-framing, and facade aesthetic.

Prefabrication provides several significant benefits:

• ݈Reduces delivery time and labor needs
• Helps to stay on budget
• Boost quality control and assurance
• Improves job site safety
• Reduces change orders
• Lessens construction wastes

StoPanel® Classic NExT ci

StoPanel® Classic NExT ci prefabricated wall panel includes steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and StoTherm® ci facade

StoPanel MVES

StoPanel® MVES prefabricated wall panel includes steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and Adhered Masonry Veneer (AMV) – thin brick, natural stone, ceramic tile, or cultured stone.. 

StoPanel® Mineral ci

StoPanel® Mineral ci prefabricated wall panels include steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and StoTherm® Mineral ci facade. 

StoPanel® Dri-Design®

StoPanel® Dri-Design® prefabricated wall panels include steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and Dri-Design® metal facade.

StoPanel® Swisspearl®

StoPanel® Swisspearl® prefabricated wall panels include steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and Swisspearl fiber cement facade.

StoPanel® Impact ci®

StoPanel® Impact ci® prefabricated wall panels include steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and StoTherm ci system, designed specifically for large and small missile impact performance.

StoPanel® 3DP Powered by Branch Technology

Working together, Sto Panel Technology® and Branch Technology created an exceptional 3-dimensional design for exterior walls. The prefabricated, panelized wall integrates the building envelope layers into a customizable 3D printed lightweight, robust, and easy-to-install composite shape. Branch’s unique Cellular Fabrication (C-Fab®) 3D printing process allows you to create a highly functional and unique architectural facade panel in virtually any shape or form.

StoPanel® XPS

StoPanel® XPS prefabricated wall panels include steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and StoTherm® ci facade that includes Extruded Polystyrene Foam Insulation 

StoPanel® Brick

StoPanel® Brick prefabricated wall panels include steel framing, gypsum sheathing, thin masonry veneers, or thin brick.

StoPanel® Precast

StoPanel® Precast prefabricated wall panel includes steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and a variety of integral decorative & protective finish options to replicate precast concrete. 

StoPanel® Metal

StoPanel® Metal prefabricated wall panels include steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and metal facade

StoPanel® Backup

StoPanel® Backup prefabricated wall panels include steel framing, gypsum sheathing, and air/moisture barrier. Builders apply facade on-site.

3. Drainable EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing System) – StoTherm® ci Wall Systems

StoTherm® ci cladding systems combine continuous insulation (ci), air/moisture barrier, drainage, and numerous aesthetic finish options to create a high-performance, sustainable wall cladding. The eye-catching and durable system maintains maximum curb appeal, and saves money through lower energy bills.

StoTherm ci MVES

StoTherm® ci MVES (masonry veneer engineered system) with masonry veneer in natural stone, ceramic tile, or manufactured stone which conforms to applicable building code requirements.

StoTherm® Mineral ci

The StoTherm® Mineral ci system incorporates non-combustible, mineral wool insulation and continuous air and moisture barrier with Sto’s high-performance finishes to produce an advanced high-performance wall cladding assembly. 

StoTherm® ci XPS

Durable, high-performance StoTherm® ci XPS incorporates high R-value extruded polystyrene insulation into the wall system and StoGuard® fluid-applied air and moisture barrier, creating an air and watertight wall ensuring thermal efficiency and excellent durability. 

StoTherm® ci

StoTherm® ci combines StoTherm® and the StoGuard® waterproof air barrier system for enhanced energy efficiency and protection against moisture intrusion. 

StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180

High-performing, energy-efficient, and hurricane-resistant StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180 provides a continuous insulation wall cladding that integrates StoGuard® waterproof air barrier and StoTherm® insulated cladding and drainage capabilities over concrete masonry unit substrates. The StoTherm® ci HI-LM CMU 180’s engineering meetsthe stringent Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA criteria for large and small missile impact resistance, air and water infiltration, and wind load resistance.

StoTherm® ci 1177-LM

High-performance StoTherm® ci 1177-LM exterior wall cladding system integrates a seamless air and moisture barrier with continuous insulation, advanced drainage capabilities, and Sto® Armor Mat XX Mesh for additional reinforcement and impact resistance over glass mat gypsum sheathing. The engineering of StoTherm® ci 1177-LM meets the stringent Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA testing criteria for large and small missile impact resistance, performance on 16-gauge steel studs with gypsum sheathing.

StoTherm® ci 1177-SM

High-performance StoTherm® ci 1177-SM exterior wall cladding system integrates a seamless air and moisture barrier with continuous insulation and advanced drainage capabilities over glass mat gypsum sheathing. The engineering of StoTherm® ci 1177-SM meets the stringent Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA criteria for small missile impact resistance, air and water infiltration, and wind load resistance.. 

StoTherm® ci HI-PLY

High-performance StoTherm® ci HI-PLY exterior wall cladding system integrates a seamless air and moisture barrier with continuous insulation and advanced drainage capabilities over CDX exterior plywood sheathing. The engineering of StoTherm® ci HI-Ply meets the the stringent Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA testing criteria for large and small missile impact resistance, air and water infiltration, and wind load resistance.

4. StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems provide fully-tested stucco systems with superior moisture management and comprehensive design options, ensuring low maintenance and durable claddings with all of the protection and energy efficiency of StoGuard®.

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems combines protective and aesthetic elements into a superior wall cladding, including StoGuard® fluid-applied moisture and air barrier, StoPowerwall® Stucco, and Sto textured finishes and coatings that keep out moisture while furnishing many design options. Sto systems include the Sto DrainScreen drainage mat for added moisture protection and optional Crack Defense, an additional fortification layer for crack prevention. 

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen MVES

The StoPowerwall® DrainScreen MVES stucco wall system with thin brick, masonry, tile, or cultured stone veneer, includes the moisture protection of StoGuard® air and moisture barrier and Sto DrainScreen to reduce the risk of water accumulation. 

StoPowerwall® ci

StoPowerwall® ci energy-efficient stucco wall systems include continuous insulation of outbound extruded polystyrene (EPS).

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen

The StoPowerwall® DrainScreen Stucco wall assembly combines the durability and strength of traditional stucco with StoGuard moisture protection,Sto DrainScreen and Sto high-performance finishes; however, it does not include insulation. 

StoPowerwall® ExtraSeal®

The StoPowerwall® ExtraSeal® stucco wall system applies directly to CMU with Sto ExtraSeal air and moisture protection.

5. StoQuik® Silver Systems Cement Board Stucco

StoQuik® Silver Systems combines the strength of a cement board substrate with moisture protection of StoGuard air and moisture barrier, draining and drying of a drainage mat, and the versatile performance and design options of Sto’s textured finishes – without the moisture exposures, complicated installation, and labor steps of traditional stucco. 

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™MVES

The high-impact, weather-resistant StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ MVES cement board stucco system provides superior moisture protection with thin brick, natural stone, ceramic tile, or manufactured stone veneer for exterior vertical above-grade walls in residential, low-rise commercial, and institutional construction. 

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ is a durable, cement board stucco system that provides superior energy efficiency and improved water drainage.

Why Choose Sto’s High-Performance Cladding Systems?

Sto’s cladding systems have all the vital features that a high-performance system needs: moisture protection by deflecting, draining, and evaporating moisture on the outside and inside of the wall system, long-lasting durability, and energy efficiency.

Simple to install, time-saving Sto systems combine all the wall components into one unit: continuous insulation, air and moisture barrier, sub-framing system, and many aesthetic facade surface options to accommodate all your designs needs.

Learn more about engineered building enclosures today by downloading this comprehensive guide.

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Drainage Problems with Traditional Stucco Walls

Traditional stucco walls require a drainage mat to drain and dry water that infiltrates the wall system. Improperly installed or cracked stucco will allow moisture to penetrate a wall system, which can lead to extensive mold and rot in the supporting layers behind the stucco surface.

What is a Stucco Drainage Mat?

A stucco drainage mat creates a continuous, predictable air gap between the wall’s bottom layer or plaster coating (scratch coat) and the weather-resistant barrier. This improves a stucco wall’s ability to drain and dry. Any veneer that is directly attached to a wall (stucco, wood or cement sidings, faux rock) requires a drainage plain.

Benefits of a Stucco Drainage Mat

Drainage mats provide a pathway for the water to drain behind the veneer, which provides several significant benefits to the wall system:

• The air gap improves the WRB’s performance by eliminating condensation, which can lead to corrosion and structurally damaging and unhealthy mold. 
• The mat helps the wall system dry quickly.
• The mat provides a buffer for expansion and contraction helping to limit cracking in the stucco.
• Drainage mats may extend the lifespan and aesthetic integrity of stucco.
• As the sun beats down on stucco, the drainage mats create a thermal break to stop the transfer of the sun’s heat to the wall system.

How to Choose a Stucco Drainage Mat

Criteria for choosing a manufactured drainage mat include drainage efficiency, compressive strength, and ease of installation. Most come in the form of roll stock, for simple installation. However, when deciding on the right one for your project, consider a manufacturer that offers tested, engineered wall systems for your stucco project like the StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems.

Our representative can show you why StoPowerwall® DrainScreen Stucco Systems are the ideal stucco system with a drainage mat solution that provides durability, protection, energy efficiency, in a vast selection of moisture-resistant coatings and finishes. 

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems integrate advanced components, including StoGuard® and Sto’s high performance aesthetics, to provide maximum long-term protection and sustainability, outperforming traditional stucco.

The StoPowerwall® Stucco System

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems, for residential or commercial and new or existing structures are durable and energy-efficient, and are available in a vast selection of moisture-resistant coatings and finishes. StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems integrate advanced components, including StoGuard® and Sto performative aesthetics in a wide variety of colors and textures, to provide maximum long-term protection and sustainability and outperform traditional stucco.

StoGuard® Fluid-Applied Air and Moisture Barrier System

Modern, and more complex building codes demand increased protection against moisture damage and unwanted air movement. Builders today need systems that quickly and easily install while providing excellent performance over the building’s lifetime.

StoGuard®’s fluid-applied air and moisture barrier system offers the ideal system for all types of construction. Fast and straightforward to apply, StoGuard® forms a fully-adhered seamless monolithic moisture and air barrier on the exterior wall to protect against moisture and air infiltration.

Sto High-Performance Stucco Finishes

Sto High-Performance stucco finishes allow for design flexibility with a wide selection of textures and colors to enhance your design and fit the surrounding environment. In addition, durable, dirt- and water-resistant Sto finishes will protect your building and provide long-lasting curb appeal.

StoPowerwall® Stucco System Features

StoPowerwall® Stucco systems integrate additional moisture protection via Sto DrainScreen drainage mat,  and options including Crack Defense for increased protection of cracking, and continuous rigid XPS insulation for energy efficiency.

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen

StoPowerwall® DrainScreen promotes excellent drainage and drying of the wall assembly for superior air and moisture control. StoPowerwall® DrainScreen provides both an air and moisture barrier as well as a drainage mat that creates an air gap, to allow water that penetrates to drain.

StoQuik Silver® – DrainScreen

StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ takes advantage of the strength and ease of installation with a cement board substrate and  includes the StoGuard air and moisture barrier, Sto DrainScreen drainage mat technology, StoGuard reinforced base coat, and Sto textured finish, resulting in superior energy efficiency, water drainage, and impact resistance.

StoQuik® Silver Systems combine the protection of Sto with the cement board’s high impact resistance. In addition, simple to install StoQuik® Silver DrainScreen™ reduces downtime and allows for earlier occupancy.

StoPowerwall® for Concrete Masonry

The StoPowerwall® for Concrete Masonry stucco system applies directly to concrete masonry unit wall construction. Featuring StoGuard® ExtraSeal, the StoPowerwall® stucco system provides excellent air and moisture protection.

This complete stucco system includes StoGuard air and moisture barrier, a drainage mat, and a high-performance textured finish.

StoPowerwall® Crack Defense

The StoPowerwall stucco wall assembly is offered with an optional Crack Defense layer to help prevent cracking. Sto Crack Defense consists of Sto mesh embedded in Sto polymer reinforced basecoat. This fortification layer is ideal to prevent surface cracking in the finish of new construction, and to repair and refinish existing stucco buildings.

StoPowerwall® ci

StoPowerwall ci is an energy-efficient stucco wall system with continuous air and moisture barrier and continuous insulation. In addition, it provides the impact- and puncture-resistance of traditional stucco with an advanced cavity wall design to remove moisture. As a result, StoPowerwall ci reduces maintenance, lessens heating and cooling costs, and protects against damaging and unhealthy mold.

Why Choose StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems?

StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems provide superior and aesthetically attractive finished results, and consistently outperform traditional stucco when adequately integrated into wall construction with code-compliant building paper, wood, lath, metal frame, or CMU backup. 

Simple and fast to install StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems combine multiple components into one system, to lessen time and labor while protecting against weather and cracking, eliminate moisture within the wall system, and save energy. In addition, our products offer design flexibility with an extensive range of colors and textures.

Contact Sto Corp professionals today for more on stucco drainage mats and how StoPowerwall® Stucco Systems can help you save money and time while providing more protection, durability, and sustainability than traditional stucco.

The post Considerations for the Best Stucco Drainage Mat Solution appeared first on Sto Corp..

Tight Building Envelope Design

A high-performing building envelope design includes all the elements of a building’s outer shell (walls, roofing, foundations, windows, and doors), effectively controlling 

heat, air, and moisture and preventing rain intrusion. The envelope should also manage noise, solar radiation, airborne pollutants, and the spreading of fire and smoke. Furthermore, the building envelope system should ensure durability, structural strength, pleasing aesthetics, short- and long-term economic feasibility, and code compliance.

The 2021 commercial IECC section C402.5 dictates compliance of the thermal envelope of buildings in Sections C402.5.1 through C402.5.8., and the 2021 residential International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), Section R402.4 dictates that the building of thermal building envelopes will limit air leakage by the requirements of Sections R402.4.1 through R402.4.5.

Benefits of a High-Performing Building Envelope

High-performing building envelopes stop air leaks or drafts and moisture infiltration through an exterior wall by installing continuous air and moisture barrier to control the infiltration and accumulation of water. The benefits of high performing building envelopes include:

• Stops air infiltration through the wall, lessening energy use and costs
• Prevents moisture infiltration by stopping condensation in the wall system to resist structurally damaging mold and mildew 
• Manages air and moisture infiltration in a building’s wall system to reduce the risk of decay and corrosion and significantly reduce costly maintenance and repairs
• Contributes to superior indoor environmental quality (IEQ) by creating comfortable and mold-free buildings with controlled acoustics

7 Must-Haves for High-Performance Building Envelope Systems

Builders and architects aiming to construct high-performing building envelope systems should apply the whole-building system approach to create durable, energy- and cost-efficient, and healthy structures. The whole-building system approach encour­ages the entire construction project team to work together to achieve overall project goals for a tight building envelope.

The seven must-haves for designing a high-performing building envelope system should include thermal, air, vapor, water-shedding control layers, durability, and adequate roofing and glazing systems.

1. Thermal Control Layer

A tight building envelope requires continuous insulation (CI) over all building components without thermal bridges other than fasteners and service openings. CI controls thermal heat transfer, lessens condensation (eliminating unhealthy and structurally damaging mold), and minimizes temperature fluctuations. CI will reduce or eliminate thermal bridging in order to protect the insulation’s R-value.

Sto Rainscreen® Systems Provide Continuous Insulation

StoVentec® Rainscreen® Systems offers a complete solution in a fully-tested, code-approved high-performance back-ventilated Rainscreen® system. The easy-to-install glass rainscreen system provides thermally efficient and continuous insulation, to limit damaging condensation and reduce the cost of heating and air-conditioning.

At the same time, its structural frame enhances safety against fire and wind loads. StoVentec® Rainscreen® Systems provide an established facade that you can finish with traditional plaster,  masonry, or even glass cladding. Our extensive design flexibility offers many textures, shapes, colors, and material type choices to fit your aesthetic and architectural requirements.

2. Air Control Layer

A high-performance building envelope must prevent the transfer of air (and the moisture contained in) between the exterior and interior to regulate the indoor climate. An air barrier must also stand up to the air pressure differences acting on them by minimizing heat gains and losses through convection, conduction, and radiation. Air barriers stop air from  transporting moisture to the interior of a wall assembly, preventing condensation and the damaging effects of moisture accumulation.

Essential components of a high-quality air barrier include: 

• The stiffness and strength to resist forces acting on them during and after construction
• Structural integrity (durability) over the lifetime of the building
• Continuous over the entire building’s envelope
• Impermeable to airflow

StoGuard® Family of Air and Moisture Barriers

Like all Sto wall systems, the StoGuard® family of air and moisture barrier products offers the first line of protection against air leakage and moisture intrusion, which is critical to a high-performing building envelope. The StoGuard® System provides seamless control over moisture and air to improve building performance and occupant comfort. Our air and moisture barrier products include:

• Fluid-applied air and moisture barriers provide a seamless barrier to improve a building’s energy efficiency and resist moisture intrusion and condensation 
• Rough opening protection with a one-component fabric or mesh-based product solution designed for a superior, seamless rough opening protection
• A versatile transition membrane for detailing areas to provide flexible connections and continuity of the air barrier system
• Sheathing joint treatments featuring a one-component fabric or mesh-based product solution designed for seamless joint treatment and sheathing protection

3. Vapor Permeable Water-Restrictive Barrier

A vapor permeable water-resistive barrier (WRB) beneath the siding protects walls from snow, rain, and vapor. The WRB must also allow moisture that makes its way into the wall system from a structure’s interior to diffuse through the assembly and dry. In addition, WRBs often function as a building’s air barrier. 

Managing the flow of water through a building envelope and removing the moisture that inevitably makes its way into it, involves following three basic principles:

1. Deflect the water with properly installed cladding and a water-resistive barrier.
2. Drain the water away from the building envelope by installing drainage mats forming drainage cavities.
3. Provide a WRB with enough permeability so the system can quickly dry.

The optimum perm rating for a WRB stops water from entering the wall cavity and allows moisture vapor that does infiltrate to escape. Of concern, too high a perm will permit moisture from the outside to penetrate the wall system. In contrast, too low a perm will trap the moisture within the wall system. According to Joseph Lstiburek, founding principal of the Building Science Corporation, the ideal WRB perm for balancing the inward and outward moisture movement within the building envelope ranges between 10 and 20 perms. However, a designer should select the specific permeability of a WRB  based on climate and positioning within the wall assembly.

4. Water-Shedding Control Layer

Controlling rainwater penetration into a building envelope must consider the forces (gravity, wind pressure differences, and capillary action) that drive the water, and the building envelope system components needed to regulate and combat these forces. 

Features that control water include:

• Flashing systems
• A well-defined drainage path
• Horizontal and vertical plane changes
• A continuous watertight membrane

Building a cavity wall (drainage or screen wall) provides a concealed open air space and drainage plane.

Drainable EIFS StoTherm® ci Wall Systems Control Water Accumulation

Drainable EIFS StoTherm® ci Wall Systems combines drainage, continuous insulation (CI), and an air and moisture barrier to create a long-lasting, durable, and energy-efficient wall system, which will save money on utilities, repairs, and maintenance. In addition, sustainable StoTherm® ci wall systems also improve indoor comfort and air quality and are available in a wide variety of textured finish options to meet your aesthetic and architectural needs.

5. Durability

A building envelope’s durability and long-term performance depend on its resistance to mold, corrosion, freeze damage, and decay. Unfortunately, building envelopes can also fail due to poor workmanship, design flaws, material problems, etc. Therefore, selecting simple to install and durable products, like StoPanel® MVES ci, will help ensure the long-term performance of your building envelope components. 

StoPanel® MVES ci combines high strength masonry veneer (thin brick, natural stone, ceramic tile, or cultured stone), a continuous air/moisture barrier, and an engineered insulating wall system to provide a durable, air and weather-tight wall system with excellent thermal performance.

Cement Board Stucco

Quick and straightforward to install StoQuik® Silver Systems integrate several components into one system in order to create a high-impact, moisture-resistant exterior wall finish that expedites the delivery time and reduces labor costs compared to traditional stucco: 

• An air and moisture barrier to provide moisture protection
• A drainage mat to drain and dry 
• Cement board substrate for impact resistance 
• Versatile performance and design options of Sto’s textured finishes

Architectural Coatings

Sto’s advanced architectural vapor permeability low-VOC coatings offer fade- and mold resistance, crack bridging, and self-cleaning properties. All features ensure superior protection against outdoor elements, to improve the building’s performance and ensure your structure’s long-term aesthetics. Sto’s architectural coatings come in many textures, sheens, and colors that can be applied either horizontally or vertically.

Hurricane Impact Systems

Sto Hurricane Impact (HI) Systems offer high-impact protection for coastal construction prone to hurricanes and tropical storm winds, water intrusion, and wind-born debris – all of which can lead to building envelope failure. Our Sto HI systems meet the stringent Miami-Dade County, Florida NOA requirements for impact resistance, wind load resistance, and air and water infiltration.

6. The Roof of a High-Performing Building Envelope

A tight building envelope needs a cool roof and roofing insulation to protect the building against solar heat gain, and keep the house and attic space cool. Low thermal mass materials, like tiles, slate, or clay, reflect the sunlight, making them suitable for a cool roof. Cool roofs lessen energy bills, and improve indoor comfort. They can also extend the roof’s service life.

7. Adequate Glazing Systems

The design of a high-performing building envelope should include energy-efficient windows, skylights, and doors that are appropriate to the building’s climate zone. High-quality glazings provide natural light, warmth, and ventilation, to save both energy and money.

In addition, glazings should face south in the northern hemisphere to take advantage of the Sun’s energy in the winter months. Finally, limiting south-facing windows and installing shading devices can help prevent excessive heat gain during the hot summers or in warmer climates.

Choose Sto Corp.’s Systems for High-Performance Building Envelope Components

Fast and straightforward to install, Sto Systems offer architects, developers, and contractors with a tested and proven high-performance building envelope. In a single product, our wall systems deliver on all performance needs, saving time and money and reducing labor, complexity, and risk compared to systems that require piecing together numerous components from multiple sources.

Independent testing shows that Sto systems meet or surpass performance specifications for water infiltration and ventilation, impact resistance, wind load resistance, flame spread, accelerated weathering, and water resistance. In addition, StoVentec systems passed the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 285 test, a standard measurement for flammability characteristics of modern exterior wall systems.

For more detailed information on high-performance building envelope systems, download our extensive engineered building enclosure guide today.

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