Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply the ArcusStone coatings?
ArcusStonecoat™ and ArcusPlaster™ decorative coatings are applied by trained ArcusStone Applicators. The majority of Applicators are plastering, EIFS, drywall, and concrete finishing companies.

Does ArcusStone Products recommend specific Applicators?
No. ArcusStone Products relies on our distributor technical representatives to provide lists of experienced Applicators for bidding projects.

Does ArcusStone Products provide front-end consultations with architects for proposed ArcusStone specifications?
Absolutely. We will work closely with you in developing and refining your specifications for the use of our materials on your projects. In addition, ArcusStone will help coordinate with the local distributor rep to address any further questions and to provide ongoing support once the project is specified with ArcusStone products.

Who do I contact if I have questions concerning my ArcusStone installation?
Always discuss any installation issues or problems first with the Applicator you hired to install the ArcusStone materials. If you have other questions regarding the ArcusStone products, contact your local ArcusStone distributor or ArcusStone technical services.

Can the ArcusStone coatings withstand the rigors of colder climates with a lot of freeze / thaw cycles?
Over the past 14 years there have been numerous exterior installations of ArcusStone coatings in areas such as Minnesota, Utah, Idaho, Montana, and Colorado which experience extremes in temperature and cycling between freezing and thawing. Additionally, the ArcusStonecoat and ArcusPlaster have been tested under ICC-ES AC11 Section 4.2 for freeze/thaw cycling. Both passed with no indication of cracking, checking, or crazing under 5 x magnifications.

Do the ArcusStone coatings need to be sealed?
There are some specific installations and conditions where sealing is required, but in general, ArcusStone Products suggests that sealing be left to the discretion of the client.

Please refer to the ArcusStone Technical Manual general requirements for sealing, or contact a local ArcusStone distributor rep or ArcusStone technical services for more specifics on sealer requirements.

Can ArcusStone coatings be considered "green" products?
Yes. ArcusStone materials require a low energy investment to produce them, incorporate high recovery and recycling properties and are safe from chemical contaminant emissions. The main limestone component of both materials is a by-product of another manufacturing process, which makes them eligible for LEED points under this category.

Are ArcusStone coatings considered 'sustainable" products?
Yes. Since both are considered forms of cement plaster stucco coatings, they have a serviceable lifespan equal to these stucco-like claddings, which range from 50 to 100 years. They are also very low maintenance coatings, requiring nothing more than some intermittent cleaning to keep them looking good.

Are ArcusStone coatings suitable for use in wet locations such as a shower surround?
The ArcusStonecoat material, with certain additives, is approved for use in shower surrounds, fountains, and other water features. The ArcusPlaster is not intended nor approved for these types of applications.

What do I need to do to maintain the ArcusStone coatings?
Usually nothing, other than periodic cleaning if the finishes are horizontal, such as floors and patios. Most vertical applications of either the ArcusStonecoat or ArcusPlaster will not require any maintenance.