MESSAGE FROM THE SMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

The SMA has been busy and been invited to present in Texas and Florida. There is a definite vibe in the lath and plastering industry that change is needed. At one time there were many associations and bureaus dedicated to promoting lath, plaster and stucco. These groups used technical excellence and promotional plans targeted to promote the more expensive and superior finish materials in the plaster family. Today only a handful are left, and most have become more focused on drywall — and even gone as far as shifting promotional efforts more toward metal or other paneled exteriors.

Lath & plaster is not the lowest cost or simplest installation for the construction industry. While cement stucco is considered a staple in the southwest, it is a premium in most regions of the country. Significant loss of stucco marketshare in California or Arizona seems unlikely to occur. However, we should not forget that 40 years ago, tract homes being built by non-union labor was inconceivable to us in the industry, but that did come to pass.

The point is that plastering needs promotion. Consider that drywall ads are run in current architect magazines and we see none for plastering. Maybe the lath & plaster industry should take a cue from the same industry that kicked them to the curb only a few decades ago. Taking a market for granted is one of the most common errors an industry can make until it is too late. The good news is that designers and building owners want plaster. The SMA knows this to be true as we receive phone calls and emails requesting help with design, details and product selection on a daily basis.

As other associations shift their focus away from lath and plaster to drywall and exterior panels, the design and even code enforcement entities have fewer and fewer resources for help. The SMA is not funded through a collective bargaining agreement that creates an unstoppable and continuous source of revenue. Marketing is not by accident; it requires planning and funding. The alternative is a slow demise in market share. It is our collective duty to find ways to deliver lath & plaster to the end users at a reasonable cost and then ensure they want it again on the next project. The simple translation is to service the designers with credible expert advice, supply a skilled work force, and assure quality–all for an affordable cost to building owners. The good news is that the vast majority of designers expect to pay a slight premium for lath, plaster and even quality stucco. Recent stories out of the East and Gulf Coast suggest that trouble is brewing for the entire plastering industry. Ironically, it appears the time we might need those old plaster bureaus the most is when they are systematically being destroyed.

Much of the lath & plaster industry is aware of a crisis, and making moves to save plastering is being discussed. This includes groups like the Texas Lath & Plastering Contractors Association, the National One Coat Stucco Manufacturers Association and the Florida Lath & Plaster Bureau. Each has met with the SMA and shared their concerns that cement stucco is under attack. The agreed plan is to address the first need: what can be done to ensure plastering and stucco will continue for the next generation?

A major concern is the claim about water leaks. While some are real issues, others are tests being manipulated to force leaks, substantiate frivolous claims and secure insurance funds. The SMA has two goals:

1. Help those building owners who have had bad stucco installed that resulted in leaks.
2. Help those contractors who have installed functional stucco and are being hit with frivolous law suits.

Lath & plaster is skill intensive and requires that unique blend of craft, science and experience to ensure it functions as it has for over 200 years in the United States. We all want cement stucco installed per ASTM and the best practices. We know that most projects are not installed per ASTM literature and that the vast majority of stucco installations are functioning as intended. One issue is that ASTM has problems with allowing regional differences and alternative practices. The SMA recognizes that there are regional practices that alternates should be allowed. The few stucco jobs that are failing are generally the result of poor practices or a failure to ensure the completed assembly is functional as it was designed. We can and must do a better job if we want to keep lath & plaster relevant. This requires a concerted effort, coordination and some funding to help lathing and the art of plastering. It is only your future at stake.

 

 

SILICA UPDATE

The OSHA ruling has been in place for one full year. At the six-month mark, OSHA announced they had issued over 117 citations for non-compliance to the ruling. They further announced that they will be ramping up citations in year two. Most citations were labeled as “serious.” The three most common violations were:

1. Failing to have a written Silica Exposure Plan: All employers must have a written plan and it should be specific to the tasks the employees perform.
2. No test data: OSHA inspectors are charged to verify the employers have tested the tasks employees perform with respect to silica exposure.
3. Failing to follow the written plan: The written plan will include Table One and states what employees must do to avoid silica dust.

To date, there are records of plastering firms cited for silica dust violations. None were SMA members. SMA has been working with various OSHA offices and will continue to improve our members’ written plan to protect your workers and assure compliance to OSHA.

OSHA has also announced plans to expand Table One. This means that new tasks will likely be added. The SMA has also continued testing silica as it relates to mixing mortar and will be updating the written exposure control plan for SMA members to use as required by OSHA updates before the end of the year.

SMA contractor members may also request online “Competent Person” training. Contact the SMA to arrange for your foreman to receive their important training. [Click here if you need additional information about the SMA’s Silica Compliance Program.]

 

SMA GOLF TOURNAMENT

On September 24, the Annual SMA Golf Tournament was again held with the biggest turnout to date. Members enjoyed perfect weather, a private country club, and food that included a carving station and a taco bar lunch.

The raffle garnered some of the most excitement of the day. Prizes included high-end sipping tequilas, a Playstation 4, gift cards for dinners, Fitbit, even a large 4K television. Many commented that the SMA has the most impressive raffle prizes of any tournament. We can thank our great sponsors for their generosity that allows the SMA to supply such an impressive list of prizes. We are certain next year will again be a banner year.

 

SMA MEMBERSHIP MEETING

The SMA November 7 meeting will feature an expert on the construction economy with a strong focus on housing issues. Sign up online today.

 

Feature Articles

HOW LONG WILL STUCCO LAST?

There have been groups that try to determine the life expectancy of various claddings. The US Department of Energy through the BEES (Building for Environmental and Economical Sustainability) will be adding to their software programs updated information regarding cement stucco as an exterior cladding. The report states “A properly installed stucco exterior will have a useful life of 100 years.” This powerful statement from the US Government was the result of data collected through exhaustive research and can be used by designers and insurance companies. There are countless framed structures in the United States that are 100 years old and clad in cement stucco.

Ironically, 100 years is almost laughable to those in Europe. They have used stucco for centuries with a very long history of success. If you get the chance to travel old central European cities, you will note that many of these structures display the year they were built and subsequent renovations. Unlike the new world of America, renovations are not every decade, but typically about once every one hundred years.

It is not uncommon to see buildings painted elaborately to highlight how old they really are. For an American, we have to realize that many of these structures pre-date US history. Cement stucco has been the unquestionable cladding of choice for most of Europe. The weather-resistance, aesthetics and proven durability continue to make stucco the cladding of choice in Europe. In speaking with locals, they have seen an increase in other panelized claddings and note that they will not last like stucco and must account for the shorter life span.

The collection of the dates on various buildings in Germany should prove that cement stucco can and will last a very long time indeed. Even over framing the force of the United States Government proclaims cement stucco will last 100 years. The SMA is in agreement, and the key is to have stucco “properly” installed. Properly means that cement stucco must function and two major factors addressed:

1. Stucco must act as a weather barrier: This means good product selection that is mixed and applied to resist climate and water penetration. Cracking is minimized and protection increased. It is not impossible or even expensive to make this happen. The Europeans have been doing it for centuries.
2. Stucco must be flashed: If the cement stucco works as a weather and water-resistant cladding per item #1, it makes sense that flashing is critical at termination and penetrations subject to water entry. Water entry must be controlled to allow only “incidental” moisture intrusion. This also includes penetrations, like windows, that are properly rated to keep water out. Again, Europe has been doing this for a very long time. In fact, their windows are in general superior in many ways to the new world windows we use. They expect windows to last a hundred years until the next renovation.

While the list for an inspection of lath and plaster could be long and detailed, it is predominately these two items that will make it work or fail.

 

THREE THINGS THAT MUST CHANGE IN STUCCO

Cement stucco is historic and unique as noted. The lather and plasterer must know what will and will not cause issues. They must know materials and how to blend them correctly. They must install lath and stucco to look good and function as the owner expects it to. While some believe following ASTM, the Code or some publication is the key to success, the truth is cement stucco is somewhat forgiving. This explains why it has worked for decades, or even centuries in Europe.

Experts have seen stucco installed in ways that make them scratch their heads and wonder how did that not fail? Perfection is unobtainable and even the old timers in the stucco industry did things that were not exactly per ASTM, but the stucco worked. A future article should be the noted failures to follow ASTM standards in Europe, yet the stucco still works. This is not meant to provide an excuse for not following ASTM or the code, but it does prove that trade skill and knowledge is still the best assurance for a successful stucco cladding.

Issues arise when skills/knowledge diminish in concert with downward pressure on pricing. This is especially true in price-sensitive markets where saving a few dollars can make or break the plastering contractor. However, there is always a point where cutting corners can result in failure. The following three items are considered paramount by most experienced stucco experts. All three are noted in ASTM in some form or another. To stave off issues, it is important the lath and plastering contractor understands and can overcome these three obstacles to functional stucco.

1. 

   REVERSE LAPS: We install shingles on the roof from the bottom up to meet the “ Shingle-Effect.” Yet, on walls we seem to lose sight of that concept. Water drains down. Lower layers must be lapped by the upper layers. This concept extends to integrated flashings as well. It is not uncommon for a wall leak to be traced back to a reverse lap. Since only incidental water should find its way behind the cement stucco membrane, most water will be absorbed into the cement and harmlessly exit as a vapor to the exterior. However, on occasion, more than incidental water may get in, weep or drain down, and the “reverse lap” is the path into the wall cavity. Even with a rain screen design, any reverse lap is a potential death sentence.

2. 

   THE SLICKER: This is a tool that has been around a long time. It has been called by many names across the country: Go Devil, Cheater or Shahalee are but a few. Using the slicker to smooth the cement plaster is not an issue. It is when it is used to apply the cement to lath that issues arise. The cement must be applied with sufficient force to embed and sustainably encase the lath. The Slicker is often used to scoop large amounts of cement from the mud board to the wall. The weight of the tool with cement makes it hard to physically force the cement in with the required pressure to fully embed and sufficiently encapsulate the lath. It is impossible to work a full day using this tool to embed the cement properly. The result is the lath on the back side of the cement is susceptible to premature rusting and failure. The situation is worse when using a metal lath. It is not a metal lath issue, but an application of cement issue. Cement should be applied with a hawk and trowel or a machine pump designed for plastering.

3. 

   BASECOAT CONSOLIDATION: The cement membrane must resist water cracking and water penetration. This requires the cement basecoat to be floated with a wood, cork or other proper float. A sponge float lightly passed over the basecoat coat will bring out some sand and look very nice, but does not consolidate the basecoat. The result is more shrinkage cracking and less resistance to water penetration.

The proper materials, mix ratios and application are critical to a cement stucco that functions. Most plaster experts will agree, these three issues are far more critical than control joint placement, adding rainscreen or other red herring issues.

 

REMEMBER: The SMA has a fairly large library on all things stucco. Members of the SMA are encouraged to call the SMA office if the staff can be of any assistance.

MESSAGE FROM THE SMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

TAKE A VACATION: Summer is here, and I hope all SMA members take some well-deserved time off and enjoy a relaxing vacation. This should be a strong message to all owners and supervisors as well. Stress levels are increasing in everyone’s life. It is the sign of the times. The stress you feel today is more than you felt last year and much more than you had a decade ago. The forecast for next year is the stress level will likely increase again. This makes vacation time not just a nicety, but paramount. Talk to your employees. too.

Turn off the phone, leave the laptop at the house, and enjoy your family. De-stress and re-charge. Business owners have a really hard time doing this. It is hard to blame them, as they worked hard to build a successful company and often spend sleepless nights and fear things will go wrong while away. But you are of no value to family if you are dead. Maybe I’m being a bit too blunt, but stress is a killer — ask any cardiologist. So please, take some time to unwind and relax … if not for yourself, then for the ones who care and depend on you. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF.

DO WE NEED CHANGE?
The SMA is growing in size — and influence. Just in the last year the SMA has helped several city inspectors, designers and many others in states across our great country. This is because lathing & plastering are skilled trades. They require knowledge of materials and the craft to properly advise and lead the industry. Simply quoting ASTM or handing out a checklist is inadequate for designers, inspectors or developers looking for qualified answers and they want third-party unbiased answers. Plastering is not drywall — and mistakes cannot be easily sanded away. Mistakes in stucco applications can lead to leaks, excessive cracking and potential litigation concerns. We seem to have forgotten our roots of plastering.

Blending semi-skilled trades with the more highly skilled crafts leads to an inevitable decline and dilution of the more skilled craft. This is because cost drives most everything, and developers typically select the lower cost options. This is evident by the loss of interior plaster to drywall. As drywall grew, interior lath & plaster became increasingly more irrelevant. When bundled in large trade groups, the majority wins and plasterers lose. This is actually fair and democratic. The more skilled craft, like lath and plaster, needs more training, education and attention: all this costs money. Since all big entities run on money, lath & plaster can look like a drain on resources to many of these groups.

It also explains why highly specialized trades develop their own national group. A group that focuses only on poured-in-place terrazzo has discovered this fact. They know it is only the highly skilled craft that can command a higher installed price than the cheaper alternatives. This product, like plaster, commands more education and a cohesive industry to work together for one goal, more market share through quality and excellence. This also includes promotional budgets to get the word out to the design community.

The SMA knows better than most: designers and building owners want lath, plaster and stucco. They will even pay a slight premium for it. They are simply confused on how to detail, specify and where to turn for true third-party expert advice. Telling them to go to ASTM or handing them a checklist is not going to get the job done.

The lath and plaster industry has other issues too. We are conflicted. Various groups have opposing opinions and these conflicts create dissention and make our industry an easy target to attack. Most big wall and ceiling contractors seem content and even encourage to let stucco and plaster die. They are businessmen and know that it is better business not to be required to hire specialists, like lathers and plasterers. In the growing Design Build world, these contractors will push for metal panels or claddings other than lath & plaster. It is smart business for them, but not for us.

Most terrazzo specialists can do tile work, but have either quit or opt to avoid this if possible. They tell me that making money on tile is hard. It is a commodity-driven business that relies on high volume with low profit. Similar to drywall, money is made by units sold and leveraging your capital to maximize your return on investment. All agree that they can make more profit on poured-in-place terrazzo with lower volumes. They just need skilled, productive workers and well-educated supervisors. Terrazzo is a high-end, long-lasting product and not a commodity item installed by the semi-skilled. Doesn’t this sound like plastering? They know terrazzo requires dedicated promotional efforts to the design community, a pool of skilled labor, educated supervisors, a single-source entity for standards and authority. While the terrazzo industry is small, it is strong, profitable and growing. They broke away from their cheaper cousins and set out on their own path, free of conflicts to determine their own future and not to be a sideline business in a mega-semi-skilled corporation.

Uniting could lead to a stronger, more profitable and expanding plaster market. The desire by the design community and owners is already there — they want plaster and stucco. The industry just has to find a way to unite, remove regional conflicts and position plaster as a premium product through quality and expert influence. The goals are ambitious, the tasks are hard, but end results could be worth looking at our industry from a different perspective.

TECHNICAL COMMITTEE

Contractor members are part of the L&P Committee [contractors: click here if you’re not yet signed up] and are invited to participate in the SMA Technical Committee. The SMA Technical Committee is a forum to discuss and find solutions to technical issues facing the plaster industry. This committee develops details and technical papers that will help shape the direction of the lath and plaster industry. If you are not the proper person in your organization to join, then pass this information along to the person who can contribute to the Technical Committee.

 

SILICA — OSHA STARTS CITATIONS

OSHA has released its first six-month report of silica exposure violations. They have issued 117 citations, and most were rated “serious” in nature. The top three violations were:

1. Not having a written exposure plan
2. Not following Table One
3. Failing to have monitoring data when deemed needed

The SMA has items 1 and 3 covered for SMA contractor members. As a part of the SMA’s Silica Compliance Program, you will have a written plan tailored to stucco and adhered masonry work. This includes mixing mortar. The SMA has continually been monitoring silica exposure, and you are using “Industry Objective Data” as your monitoring requirements.

The SMA now offers Competent Person training to all members online, at no charge. Contact the SMA if you are interested in having a class. The SMA is also working on new and improved engineering controls for silica exposure through our continued monitoring efforts. [Click here if you need additional information about the SMA’s Silica Compliance Program.]

 

 

PROMOTING STUCCO

The SMA has been busy with architectural presentations and even visited a few large general contractors around the country to promote stucco. We are working jointly with our labor friends to promote stucco. The SMA budget for promotion is small, so more members mean more budget and more promotion. Help bring others in to help the stucco market grow. After all, cement plaster/stucco is a low maintenance, durable and cost effective cladding for the life cycle of a building.

 

SAVE THE DATE: SMA GOLF SEPTEMBER 24, 2018

The SMA’s annual golf tournament will again take place at the private Yorba Linda Country Club. It is always a well-attended event, and sponsorships are available in Gold, Silver and Bronze levels. Your sponsorship provides name recognition for your company and helps the SMA grow to promote a stronger stucco market. Online sign-ups coming soon.

 

Feature Articles

PERFORMANCE GRADE, PERFORMANCE CLASS AND DESIGN PRESSURE

The SMA recently presented a short class on Windows and Water Testing. While you might think “what is it and why should I care,” you might want to give it some thought. Evidence of this is when a few attendees came up after the class and express interest. This is because they are currently in a litigation case and watching water testing being applied to their stucco projects. A real-life example was presented where a national building envelope firm had designed and then tested for leaks. Most plastering contractors have no idea of the rules and protocols to water penetration testing. The SMA example clearly demonstrated the firm was not following proper protocols and procedures. The first and most clear evidence was the building envelope firm self-performed the water testing. The American Architectural Manufacturers Association is very clear that testing is only valid when done by an AAMA lab. They are true third-party, trained and use calibrated equipment. The rules can be complex — some experts may be testing fairly or they may be interpreting, tweaking or even making up the rules to fit a desired out come. If you play a sport, you know it helps to know the rules. Why would it be any different for water testing and your business? Knowing the rules can save you a lot of money.

WHY WATER? The experts will almost always drift to water testing. The more seasoned and experienced at litigation, the more they push for water testing. If you misplace a fastener and technically violate the code, the ultimate question is, will it cause damage? If you have damage, your insurance must pay. Water causes damage, even a tiny, slow and continual leak will cause damage. Is there anything you can do to protect yourself early on? While no one can guarantee you will not get sued, some knowledge and protective action can help protect you, your builder and the architect to better buildings and save everyone a lot of grief down the road. This is needed because unjust litigation does occur.

DESIGNERS: Plastering contractors are not designers and are advised not to take on that role. However, you can and should ask the designer for clarification and can even provide them information to better protect yourself and them. Handled properly, an architect will be grateful for the help. Architects have a daunting task: they must design to meet code, select products and assemblies that are appropriate, sustainable and stay within budgets. They cover electrical, plumbing, fire, sound, concrete, structural issues and a plethora of other design issues. They cannot be expected to be experts at every single discipline to design and construct a structure. It is just not possible in today’s complex world. They also have liability issues that can be significant, with repercussions that could result in a loss of their license, effectively putting them out of business.

COMPONENTS & CLADDINGS: A building is a mass of puzzles, pieces, codes and standards. Compliance is daunting to say the least. Most issues on building for the specialty contractor are very limited to their scope. But the specialty contractor should be an expert at his trade and have a working knowledge of all items that touch his/her trade. Architects must deal with the Components and Claddings section in the code. This requires architects to design a structure to meet established Design Pressures per a formula in the code. This is typically established by the Engineer of Record as a positive and negative wind pressure as it relates to stucco and windows. Since windows touch stucco and seem to have leak issues, it might help to know just a bit about windows and water testing. The architect is supposed to select windows, doors, decks and anything that interrupts the cladding based on this pressure. That is why what window works in Phoenix, Arizona, may have no relation to what is required in Miami, Florida. The cladding itself must be approved and how it is fastened to the structure to meet these criteria.

Fortunately, generic stucco claddings meet requirements, other proprietary claddings must have an Evaluation Report. Windows are tested rated in performance classes from Residential (R) to Architectural (AW) grade. Some architects are not well versed at design pressures and performance grades and fail to specify products suitable to the structure. Some developers will switch out products to save money by using a lower-rated product. In addition, different areas of the building can have different pressures, and windows can be put in the wrong place. The end result is that windows not rated for the location will leak, and too often stucco gets blamed.

It is not a bad idea to ask the general contractor if the window’s performance grade meets or exceeds the structural engineer’s wind loading to insure proper flashing and integrating the windows and your stucco siding. This is simple and does not make you a designer, but can alert the architect and general that we all need to be vigilant. The chart above, labeled AAMA/NWWDA 101/I.S.2-97, helps explain grades and pressures and illustrates not all windows are created equal.

PASSED THEN FAIL: Another common issue is to have a design and construction team build and test with extreme water pressure on site. This gives everyone a sense of security that they will not get sued later. Then eight years later, the contractors are informed they are being sued for water leaks in and around windows in the stucco. How can that be? We tested at even higher pressures, they passed, but now leak?

The clue is that oftentimes you hear, “we never passed the first water test. But we work until it passes.” This can mean that blobs of sealant are continually added at leak points during the test until it passes the next test. The problem is that eight years later, those blobs have failed and water can now get in even under low pressure. The sense of security can disappear fast. The inset picture is one of those examples. The envelope firm on this project is nationally known and highly respected, yet the flashing was complex, poorly designed and simply not constructible. Water intrusion was obvious on the first few tests. However, with enough sealant smeared at just the right place(s), water is kept out, at least for now.

 

STUCCO AND CORNERS

This may be one of the most important items a plastering contractor can read. You must match your corner trim accessory to the finish coat and the environment you are working on. The SMA routinely receives calls on corner issues and stucco. The most common is the rusty corner. The picture of the inset window in the cement brown coat is typical. One can see the nose of the corner aid vertically along the left side of the window. This is common and by itself not an issue. The aid is galvanized and will resist rusting. ASTM notes the aid shall be covered by 1/8 inch cement, traditionally accomplished by the addition of the cement finish coat. Compliance met and it works. However, acrylic finish coats have become very popular. They hold color better, they offer some flexibility and look great.

However, they can hold moisture in longer than then 1/8 inch of cement. In wet or very humid conditions, rust spots can occur on the corners when a galvanized nose aid or bead is in contact with acrylic or elastomeric coating. The solution is to use PVC nose corners when using an acrylic finish coat where the structure is going to be exposed to constant humidity. This is why PVC nose is popular in Florida and Seattle.

Another option often discussed is to bury the nose of the aid/bead in 1/8 inch cement brown coat. This makes little sense. The corner trim is a guide for the plasterer to use. The nose will naturally be exposed by the rodding of the brown coat to insure a flat and true plane. To add brown coat back will defeat the purpose of the procedure to rod the wall in the first place. The answer is to use a PVC nose on acrylic finish coats over cement plaster. I am certain many plasterers can swear they use metal nose all the time with acrylic finish and never have an issue. That is likely because the corner is not in a humid environment.

PVC NOSE: Some contractors in humid regions feel that using PVC nose 100% of the time on all projects is the solution to all their problems. That would seem to make sense, except there is a catch and a whole new problem arises when a cement finish coat is selected. The PVC nose will allow the cement finish to stick. However, over time the cement will pop off. The PVC will expand and contract, but cement will not. The PVC corner can flex, but the cement cannot. Acrylic finish expands and contracts with the PVC and flexes when it moves through structural deflection or impact.

The plastering contractor is considered by the legal system to be the expert at his/her craft. Even if the architect specifies the wrong nose for the finish or the project, responsibility will generally fall onto the specialty contractor’s area of expertise and the failure to notify the designers of well-known practices by the industry. The following is recommended by the SMA.

1. Use galvanized metal nose for cement finish coat stucco.
2. Use PVC nose for acrylic finish coats over cement brown coats in regions with high humidity.
3. Notify the architect or owner you prefer to follow SMA recommendations. Proceed as directed by design team or owner.

 

 

REMEMBER: The SMA has a fairly large library on all things stucco. Members of the SMA are encouraged to call the SMA office if the staff can be of any assistance.

MESSAGE FROM THE SMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

I would like to welcome all our new contractor members to the Stucco Manufacturers Association. The SMA Silica Compliance Program has dramatically increased the size of the SMA. This should help the plastering industry. A larger organization means better funding and opportunities to help the plastering industry. The result will be more influence to help designers with the correct selection for exterior siding — which is stucco. Helping the plastering industry helps all of us: whether you are a contractor, supplier or manufacturer, more marketshare means more work for you. An appropriate quote to consider is “a rising tide floats all boats.” For you new members, here is some useful information about the SMA.

Who is the SMA? The Stucco Manufacturers Association was incorporated in 1957 by the various cement stucco manufacturers in the California market. Over the years, the expansion has slowly grown to include the entire United States. The SMA holds quarterly meetings for networking and educational purposes.

Education: The SMA is a not-for-profit educational body and recognized by the design community as the authority on plaster and stucco. Our AIA online class is viewed several times a day by architects from all over the United States. The SMA helps designers with details and specifications on the proper use of cement stucco. The board of directors are keenly aware that some education and training for installers are also needed.

Promotion: I believe education is a form of promotion. If a cladding works because of education and training, it will flourish. Conversely, if a cladding has repeated failures, all the promotional ads in the world cannot help it. We know stucco works, in all climates. The SMA is working on a plan to boost the promotional efforts of stucco in commercial and residential markets. The resources of new members joining the SMA greatly help in that effort.

If you are an SMA member, your livelihood relies on stucco marketshare. Make no mistake — other claddings would love to see stucco lose its hold on the markets where we are strong. The benefits and long track record of stucco make it hard to convince people that stucco is not a good cladding. However, we should not sit by and let chance dictate our future. Stucco has a great future: whether it is three-coat, one-coat, EIFS or cement board systems, there is a system that is right for everyone out there, and we need to work harder and smarter at stucco promotion.

 

 

SILICA TRAINING

The first SMA Silica Compliance Training was held and the plaster industry now has 40 card-carrying “Competent Persons” on silica exposure for plastering and adhered masonry. While not every attendee passed the tough written exam, most did very well. The SMA Director was pleased as this was one of the biggest turnouts the SMA had in years. Large and small plastering contractors filled the room, even the OPCMIA made the class. Fowler commented this is important as every employer is required to have a written exposure plan and assign a competent person. This person should be trained at the tasks routinely performed that may put employees at risk of silica exposure. This training will help make workers safer and better the industry as a whole.

The SMA is already scheduled to hold classes in Fresno, Sacramento, Las Vegas, Austin, San Diego and Phoenix. Contact the SMA if you are interested in Silica “Competent Person” training.

 

 

Feature Articles

WHY I HATE ONE COAT!

Cement stucco has traditionally been a three-coat system. One-coat is really a two-coat system and merely reduces the basecoat thickness from a 3/4 to 7/8 inch thickness down to a 3/8 to 1/2 inch thickness. One-coat has been around for over forty years and many contractors resist it. The objections are varied from using unfamiliar trims to slight nuances in application. It seems contractors love or hate one-coat.

If you are a contractor who hates one-coat, you may want to ask yourself if you get tired of builders, owners or consultants stepping in to tell you how to lath and plaster when they have no idea about the practice. Three-coat stucco is generic with no manufacturer from start to finish. This opens the world interpretation to any and all. This can be the consultant who has never seen stucco or a homeowner who saw something on television and knows you are getting to them.

This is when a one-coat manufacturer can really help. One-coat is a system, the manufacturer is the king of the system and can be of great help when you need an educated and reasonable clarification to a situation. Consider how many times you have read project specifications that stated to install per manufacturer’s recommendations as opposed to install per contractor’s recommendations. This is a tool many contractors fail to use. Most manufacturers are very adept at how their systems work. They can be a great assistance if you know how to use them. This does not mean trying to get them to cover mistakes or improper workmanship, but does mean they can be flexible to work with you as a partner to insure the owner gets a stucco job that works without spending money on pointless or redundant extras.

Another thought on one-coat is the litigation angle. If you get caught in a case where a lawyer points out that your control joint layout or installation is not per ASTM, you have a hard fight ahead with three-coat stucco. However, with one-coat stucco, you have two quick answers.

1. The ASTM covers three-coat, not one-coat, so it is not the correct standard to reference.
2. The approval for one-coat is by the code on “alternative materials and methods”; you need to refer to the evaluation report and then the manufacturer for allowable variations to their system.

The other issue that should make you think is the Continuous Insulation craze. One-coat is the only hard coat cement stucco fully code compliant, tested and proven for a cement stucco over a rigid foam. While three-coat cement plaster over rigid foam works, back-up from authoritative sources can be challenging. Not the case with one-coat stucco — it was born over rigid foam sheathing. If you hate one-coat stucco, you may want to re-think it.

TEN THINGS EVERY STUCCO CONTRACTOR NEEDS TO KNOW

1. 

   Flashing: Flashing is important on all claddings, but more so on cement stucco over framed walls. This is because stucco does a great job keeping bulk water out. Conversely, stucco also holds bulk water in. This means bulk water that gets behind the stucco has only a few options. Some will be absorbed and then diffuse as a vapor to the outside, but this is a slow process and water can flow down and must be directed out. Flashing is more critical for stucco and, when done correctly to minimize water enter and direct water out, stucco is the best cladding you can select. Failing to provide flashing can trap water and cause rot and decay, faster than with other claddings.

2. Cracking: Cracking is inevitable with a brittle cement cladding. Hairline cracks are not a point of water entry. Even the Romans knew concrete was great for transporting water. The hairline cracks would virtually self-seal on the inside. This should not be used as an excuse for excessive or large cracks. However, crack free stucco is unrealistic and not required for stucco to work.
3. Control Joints: The code and ASTM have requirements for placement and installation of control joints in stucco. Building owners should be notified of the requirements and then allowed to decide if they want to exercise provisions of the code that allow for alternatives. This should not be your decision. You should also be fairly compensated if they require more than the plans illustrate.

4. 

   Windows: You should know all windows are NOT created equal. They get a Performance Grade from the manufacturer. Using a window under rate will leak, regardless of how great you flash it. While this may not be your problem, you will be dragged in and forced to defend yourself. It is easier to get confirmation upfront that the windows are properly rated for the project.

5. Concrete Masonry Units: Stucco over CMU is time honored and proven. Yet many want to add a building wrap or paper to add extra water protection. This is generally a bad idea. Stucco should bond to the CMU. A slip sheet can create cracking and even reduce water resistance. Attaching the wrap to CMU will punch holes in the product that will not seal the same framing members.

6. 

   Know Your Corners: Corner beads and aids have plastic or steel noses. Stucco finish is cement or acrylic. Cement will want to flake off of plastic nose beads, where acrylics can rust metal noses in damp areas. Pick the nose to match the finish coat.

7. Records: Keep records on when you did what. One of the first things consultants think when cracking starts (see item #2) is that you did not allow a cure time. Wait seven days minimum before applying any finish coat to your basecoat. If the builder wants you to accelerate the time, send him a letter that this “may” result in more hairline cracks in the long run. Protect yourself.
8. Know ASTM: ASTM has been around a long time. The code used to describe how to install stucco, but they now opt to reference ASTM standards, and these standards are changing. You are required to follow ASTM. You can get relief on many items if you know the rules (see item #3), but you have to know what ASTM is telling you. Get a copy.
9. Pre-Installation: You must walk the site and look over every possible item that could impact your stucco and its performance. Turn off your cell phone, take notes and pictures (see item # 7). Insist on a pre-install meeting with the GC, architect and owner to review expectations and concerns from all sides. Do not send threatening CYA letters, but express concern on what “might” happen. These are powerful tools, and even ones worded in a non-threatening tone can have your insurance carrier almost hugging you.
10. You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know: This goes for everyone onsite. Most architects do not really understand stucco, so cut them a break. Help guide them to resources they will trust rather than try to prove you know more about stucco than they do. Because you do not know what they know, which is a lot about engineering, building science and the code. Remember you and they do not know everything.

PAINTING STUCCO

The SMA receives dozens of calls from stucco homeowners who express concerns about painting stucco and fear it will be a nightmare. This is likely the result of the prominent home improvement scam that hit the industry in the fifties and sixties. These were quick fixes to cure all siding maintenance and sounded to good to be true, because it was. This was the textured coatings boom that promised to forever eliminate painting and maintenance on your home. Even the commercials on television and radio had thrilled homeowners talking about a textured coating applied to their stucco home. The promise to eliminate the cracks and the need to ever paint again was very appealing. Seeing these textured coated homes was a bit shocking for plasterers. They sprayed the stucco, the eaves, the electrical box and the family dog if they could. They kept the masking to a bare minimum. Once done, your options to fix the nightmare were limited to strip and re-stucco. It was an expensive proposition. The hoodwinked homeowner learned a painful and expensive lesson. I suspect they told neighbors and the word got around. The craze eventually died out.

A few decades have passed and now it seems people are terrified to simply paint on stucco. Painting stucco is fine. Success depends largely on what you expect and what products are selected to paint with. Generally, paint will not cover cracking in the long term. While elastomeric coatings can hide the cracks, they can also have issues of vapor permeability. Stucco over framed walls works better if they allow moisture to escape. Sealing moisture out can have the reverse effect too, sealing it in.

Acrylic paints made specifically for stucco work well and are proven to last a long time. These products can breathe and do not trap moisture vapor in the walls. Painting new stucco is also acceptable. The pH level on newly applied stucco can be high and should be allowed to drop to 8 before painting. If an elastomeric is desired, products with a perm rating of 7 or higher are advised, and the stucco wall should be inspected by an expert in stucco to insure it is compatible for this coating. Using an elastomeric to solve water intrusion issues is a low-cost fix and generally does not fix the issue.

Fog coating is a cement-based paint. Fog coat is low cost and used only for cement finish coat stucco that is free of paint or coatings. It is a product designed to even out color inconsistencies that are inherent with cement stucco finish coats. Using fog coat to change the color of a stucco is possible and, while it can be done, painting is generally better. Finding an expert at fog coating can be challenging, and it is typically better to paint the stucco with a quality acrylic made specifically for stucco.

REMEMBER: The SMA has a fairly large library on all things stucco. Members of the SMA are encouraged to call the SMA if the staff can be of any assistance.

PLEASE NOTE: SMA OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Mark Fowler, Executive Director
Marlene Lampert, Office Manager
Stucco Manufacturers Association
5753 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd, Suite G-156
Anaheim, CA 92807
Office: 213 379 5890
Mark@stuccomfgassoc.com
Marlene@stuccomfgassoc.com

MESSAGE FROM THE SMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

The new OSHA Silica Exposure standard is here, and soft enforcement has begun. OSHA will be looking, and good faith efforts to comply with the new standards will be required. Being enrolled in the SMA Compliance Program is a good start. The construction industry had a PEL of 250 micrograms per cubic meter of air as an 8 hour-Time Weighted Average (TWA). The new PEL has been reduced to 50. This is a significant reduction, and OSHA states it will save thousands of lives by reducing the fatal illness known as silicosis. For information about the required written exposure plan, competent person and other requirements, refer to the SMA Silica Compliance Program [click here]. The SMA has done industry testing and prepared a plan for plastering and stucco work. There will be more upcoming tests and updated Exposure Control Plan. Being in the SMA program will keep you informed of changes.

ASBESTOS: The plaster industry has raised concerns that this is likely the next ‘asbestos’ issue. While similarities exist, there are also significant differences. Unlike asbestos, silica is one of the most common materials found on earth. Banning silica is not feasible. Unlike asbestos, the OSHA standard known as 1926.1153 sets protocols for compliance, not a ban of the product. Adhering to these work rules will better protect employees and keep employers in compliance. To learn what you need to know, the SMA has a link [click the cover image at right] to the OSHA “Small Entity Compliance Guide.” This guide is the explanation to the ruling, compliance and allowable paths to compliance.

FALL WEATHER: Fall is here and cold weather is just around the corner. While cooler weather can increase production rates and lessen the need for damp curing of cement plaster, it also can mean workers need to start covering materials and thinking about rain, frost and even snow fall. Shocking to most plasterers in the southwest, cement stucco is done in cold climates and winter protection is an annual concern. Minnesota and Alaska both use stucco with regularity, and stucco has performed well for decades. Russia and Germany rely on stucco to clad most of their buildings. After all, what other cladding material actually gains strength over time?

STUCCO & FIRE: The recent fires in California also point to another major benefit of stucco. The cement membrane is noncombustible and provides superior fire protection for homes. Historical studies have clearly shown cement stucco outperforms other claddings for fire protection, durability, design flexibility and economy.

STUCCO PROMOTION: The SMA is working on a plan for greater promotion of cement stucco. Other claddings with far less qualities than stucco are taking market share. Do not believe that designers do not like plaster or that stucco is not suitable for their projects. It is about promotion. We need to promote to designers and not to ourselves. Other claddings have large budgets and work hard to develop well thought-out and executed marketing campaigns to promote their claddings to architects. It is time for stucco to do the same. We need to develop a marketing plan for stucco. We need to reach out to designers and developers and have them take a second look at stucco. Since stucco is primarily a site blended and generic product, it must be the contractors that help push the need if they want to insure future market share. Market share will not increase without a concerted and purposeful effort. Other industries do this, but plastering promotion to designers has been seriously lacking for decades. The significant increase in stucco contractors signing up to the SMA due to the Silica Exposure Control Plan could provide the funding needed to develop such a plan. The SMA welcomes all the new plastering contractors and hope they join us in the pledge to work on plans to increasing stucco market share.

SMA GOES TO TEXAS!

The SMA will be presenting a stucco class to a group of Texas developers on November 1 in Austin, Texas. The program will be to educate developers on stucco and promote greater use of cement plaster stucco on projects. This is the first SMA program in Texas, and we have others planned in other states. The SMA is the national voice for plastering, and growth of the SMA equals growth for plastering and stucco market share. The in-person presentation complements our on-line AIA classes that are already taken by architects from around the United States. Supporting the SMA supports your business growth in enhanced market share.

 

SMA GOLF 2017

The 2017 golf tournament was the biggest ever. The private Yorba Linda Country Club was appreciated by the SMA membership, and we will be returning next year. Our raffle was filled with great prizes thanks to our sponsors.

 

SIGN UP NOW: NEXT SMA MEETING ON NOVEMBER 8

Chris Thornberg is BACK! SMA members have enjoyed Dr. Thornburg’s witty and entertaining presentations on the economy. For those who may not know, Chris predicted the crash of 2008 before most had a clue trouble was on the horizon. What he predicts now about the economy and the housing/building crisis could be helpful to you and your business. The meeting is set for November 8 at the Yorba Linda Country Club. Plan to attend — a sellout is expected. Click here to sign up online now.

 

Feature Articles

What Is the SMA?

If you are new to the SMA, welcome — and let us tell you about us. The SMA is a national not-for-profit industry trade association formed in 1957 to improve stucco, enhance products and educate the industry. We do this through collaboration of manufacturers, dealers, contractors and industry consultants. We produce technical papers, provide assistance to designers and contractors on all issues related to plastering/stucco. Unlike many other groups, we are not conflicted by supporting other cladding or materials that take work away for the lath and plastering contractor. We also have networking events and — with new contractors signing up from around the United States — it is hopeful we will soon be able to hold regional meetings in other areas of the United States. The SMA has committees to focus on specific issues and improve stucco. Our goal is to educate and help contractors be successful and profitable. We know contracting in lath and plaster is a tough business; we can help. Working together we can make a difference on the future of stucco. Members can use the SMA or L&P logo on business cards, stationary or promotional items. Contact Marlene Lampert at the SMA office for more information.

SMA’s Plaster Troubleshooting Guide

Our plaster troubleshooting table was first published in 1965 by the SMA and has been recently updated. The SMA offers this as a general troubleshooting guide of problems or unwanted conditions found or related to portland cement plaster/stucco walls. The chart lists the conditions, possible causes, preventions or possible remedies. Not all of these conditions are in the control of the plastering contractor. This chart [click image at right] can also be used as a pre-installation discussion guide for plaster/stucco projects to help avoid unwanted conditions.

WEEP SCREED, HISTORY AND THE CODE

Building Codes require a weep screed at the base of stucco framed walls along the foundation plate line. The weep screed was introduced into the code in 1970 and, over the years, more clarifications were added.

1. Placed at foundation plate line and allow trapped water to drain to the exterior (introduced in 1970 Code)
2. To be made from 26 gauge galvanized steel or approved corrosion resistant material (introduced in 1985)
3. Have a 3 ½ inch high attachment flange (introduced in 1985)
4. The nose is to be 4 inches off of the raw earth ( introduced in 1979)
5. The nose is to be 2 inches off of paved services (introduced in 1991)
6. The bottom of the weep screed is to be 1 inch below the framing/concrete transition (ASTM 2001)
7. The weather- (water-) resistant barrier and lath shall lap the attachment flange (introduced in 1979)

Alternates to code required weep screed are allowed if approved by the Building Official. It is the responsibility of the designer/user to verify the detail is appropriate for the climate and location on the building. The SMA has details providing options, with permission from the local building official prior to usage. Most building departments have accepted the SMA alternates. Contact Mark Fowler at the SMA if you need assistance.

PLEASE NOTE: SMA OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Mark Fowler, Executive Director
Marlene Lampert, Office Manager
Stucco Manufacturers Association
5753 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd, Suite G-156
Anaheim, CA 92807
Office: 213 379 5890
Mark@stuccomfgassoc.com
Marlene@stuccomfgassoc.com

MESSAGE FROM THE SMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Hot Items on the Horizon for the Stucco Industry

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

I hope everyone is enjoying the transition to Summer. For us in the association world, we tend to already be looking ahead to Fall. It will be here fast, and that is when seminars, classes and various meetings all start back up. This Fall the stucco industry has some challenges and opportunities that could shift the future for all of us. How these issues will impact the overall industry will depend largely on what we do and what we do not do as events unfold. The inaction of our industry is likely to have the greatest impact. Here are some hot items on the horizon.

SILICA: OSHA has dramatically cut the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) to respirable silica (RCS). Attending a seminar hosted by CAL/OSHA, many plastering contractors mistakenly believed that plastering had an exemption from the Department of Industrial Relations. The OSHA representation made it clear the exemption was for dust and not respirable crystalline silica. OSHA has the rules on their website www.silica-safe.org and contractors are encouraged to check out the new rules. It should be a wake-up call that the list of trades under scrutiny includes plastering, stucco and EIFS. The SMA has been working hard to develop a “Written Exposure Plan” for stucco. This written plan is required and must be per the tasks specific to the trade. They must also have an assigned person who can explain and implement the plan. Failure to have the plan may result in hefty fines, that increase upon violations. While the White House is predicted to overturn this rule, most feel CALOSHA and other states will keep the more stringent rules in place. States are allowed to make rules more strict than Federal standards, just not weaker.

DRAINAGE: The southeastern U.S. may seem far way for many of us who do stucco in the drier southwest, but actions in that region of the country may impact all of us in the western half of the U.S. There is a code movement to push for a drainage gap behind all reservoir claddings. Stucco is classified by many envelope experts as a reservoir cladding, similar to masonry.

CI: If you are unaware of what CI stands for, you need to get out more often. CI is the acronym for Continuous Insulation. This is the Energy code requirement for a rigid layer of insulation to cover stud framing. Framing has been proven to allow a short circuit in even the best insulated framed walls. Most experts point to Europe as the leader in Net Zero home building. Net Zero is a term to describe the concept of homes that use the same renewable energy they create. It is easier in Europe as they build masonry walls with massive amounts of CI. We tend to use more framing. While it is less expensive, it is also better for seismic zones. Masonry can also be done, but the costs tend to really sky rocket with all the steel needed to comply with more rigid seismic codes.

ONE-COAT STUCCO: The stucco industry has a fire and drainage testing insulated one-coat stucco system. The rigid foam is specifically designed for one-coat stucco with limited thickness and smoke and flame spread requirements. Tongue and groove connections with small drainage grooves on the backside provide for Continuous Insulation to meet Energy Codes and still meet enhanced drainage. The proven non-combustible coating of cement on the outside of the foam should give building owners peace of mind. These systems are 100% code compliant, as they carry an Evaluation Report from the code body such as the International Code Council or IAPMO. One-coat stucco over foam has been proven since 1975 in all types of climates and structures. These proven systems are also very affordable when compared to other claddings. When manufacturers’ recommendations are followed, as per the Evaluation Report’s requirement, they are warrantable and work well for an economical price. The SMA is working on a series of generic details that all one-coat manufacturers can agree on for wider dissemination to the design and contracting communities. Our industry biggest challenge is trained workers.

PLEASE NOTE: SMA OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Mark Fowler, Executive Director
Marlene Lampert, Office Manager
Stucco Manufacturers Association
5753 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd, Suite G-156
Anaheim, CA 92807
Office: 213 379 5890
Mark@stuccomfgassoc.com
Marlene@stuccomfgassoc.com

WELCOME NEW SMA BOARD MEMBERS

DJ Farley of Weatherization Partners and Rick Durham of EZ Concentrate Mix out of Dallas, Texas, have been asked to fill two SMA board positions that became vacant. The SMA board is impressed with DJ Farley’s commitment to the lath and plaster industry. DJ was a lather for several years and brings his experience to the SMA. Rick Durham was a plastering contractor in Texas, and today he is sales manager for the well-known and respected dealer/stucco manufacturer in Dallas. Adams Supply is well known thoughout Texas with yards and products all over the Lone Star state. The SMA is grateful to have Rick provide the Texas connection for the SMA. He will help educate the SMA on regional practices common for the Texas market. Welcome aboard, Rick and DJ.

Our 5TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT ON SEPTEMBER 11

The SMA golf tournament will be held on September 11 at the Yorba Linda Country Club. Sponsorships are available for maximum name exposure to your company and product. Contractors and dealers fill the field and have a great day of fun and networking. The dinner and raffle are annual events the stucco industry looks forward to, too.

This year promises to be the biggest field ever as the Yorba Linda Country Club is a private club and only open to outside players through tournaments such as the SMA event. Street tacos will be served at the turn, and there will be lots of fun events. Plan to come and network with the industry on all things stucco.

SAVE THE DATE — NEXT SMA MEETING ON NOVEMBER 8

Chris Thornberg is BACK! SMA members have enjoyed Dr. Thornburg’s witty and entertaining presentations on the economy. For those who may not know, Chris predicted the crash of 2008 before most had a clue trouble was on the horizon. What he predicts about the economy could be helpful to you and your business. The meeting is set for November 8 at the Yorba Linda Country Club. Plan to attend — a sellout is expected.

 

Feature Articles

Apprenticeship in Plastering

An apprenticeship is a system of training a new generation of workers in a particular trade or craft. Classroom and on-the-job training is combined to provide the best results. The level, benefit and length of training depend greatly on the skill required to become accomplished journeyman or journeyperson.

Lathing and plastering may be one of the best examples of where the apprenticeship system has proven to ultimately fail the industry. In the 1950s, construction was booming across America. The war had just ended and there was no greater need for vast numbers of training skilled workers than plastering. Gypsum lath and plaster was a superior finish, but required skilled labor. The plaster was a gypsum basecoat, commonly called “hardwall,” and finished with a skim coat often called the “putty coat.” The result was a durable fire- and sound-resistant wall that could be smooth or textured. By the 1960s, the interior finish coats were pre-blended and even came in various pastel colors, eliminating the need for paint. Within a decade, this superior finish material was all but gone.

The driving force was increasing costs and loss of workers juxtaposed to a sheet good only needing joint treatment. For plastering to survive, the trade required skilled craft people if production was to stave off the new kid on the block called “drywall.” Drywall required less skill, even mistakes were pretty easy to fix when compared to hard and dense plaster. Drywall was cheaper and faster; the trade off for improved fire, sound and abuse resistance lost out to a cheaper price and lower requirements for training new workers. This should be a lesson to stucco contractors today. Lower priced finishes tend to win out with major market share in the long run. Even in the face of a superior performance, owners will often opt to save money. This explains why stucco is popular in the southwest, where stucco is lower cost and outlasts other claddings by a mile. Prices are impacted by the availability of workers that can install lath efficiently and use trowels in a productive manner. The machine pumps also tend to improve production. But don’t fool yourself — developers will drop stucco if another cladding becomes tempting with significantly lower prices. This has already happened in some parts of the country. We do not want to be a footnote in construction history. Remember, lath and plaster virtually lost the market to drywall in less than a decade.

How do we keep stucco going? Apprenticeship is key. Without a supply of skilled and knowledgeable journeymen who can put up stucco “correctly” with efficiency to keep stucco competitive, we could be in trouble. Failing to train workers could make stucco similar to interior lath and plaster, a very high-end and expensive material only limited to the wealthy who can afford it. What can be done?

We need a national training program for stucco. This sounds easy, as we have established open market programs for electricians, plumbers and even other sidings. But none for stucco. The reason is that the skill and knowledge level for proper lath and plaster application is high. This, combined with the fact that regional preferences and competing groups can never seem to agree on a baseline, can make training almost impossible. The industry needs to come together, put their differences and competition for market share aside to preserve the stucco market. The alternative is to become genuine interior lath and plaster, a limited cladding with a very small to non-existent market share.

Control Joints in Stucco

For decades the issue was clear — control joints were not code mandated. It was a designer’s option. This was good, as an architect designing a Tuscan- or Santa Barbara-style home with a smooth trowel finish would certainly find the addition of control joints an aesthetic destruction of his/her design. The SMA agrees that on many projects like these, the occasional hairline crack would be preferred to the control joint. The dilemma today is the code now references the ASTM standards. These standards are clear and they require the use of control joints with specific spacing and installation requirements. The SMA is publishing a paper to provide designers the backup they need to eliminate control joints, if they so choose.

K-Lath Opens New Facility

Tree Island Steel has been manufacturing K-Lath for decades. They have grown and kept expanding over those years with innovation and quality for the stucco industry. It was finally decided that putting the operations under one roof just made sense. The massive facility in San Bernardino is a state-of-the-art production center putting out a host of products. Headquartered in British Columbia, Tree Island Steel produces wire, bulk nails, fencing and an array of related products. The San Bernardino facility will focus on lath and the fasteners.

 

Noteworthy

SMA Office

Most members may not be aware of the phones calls and emails that flow into the SMA office on a regular basis. Most are technical questions looking for help. Office Manager Marlene Lampert has experience in stucco and offers assistance and/or guidance for the more general questions. This is a great asset, as Executive Director Mark Fowler travels quite a bit around the country. Most calls are on painting stucco, why stucco cracks, and is stucco appropriate for various regions of the country. She handles them well. Calls come from around the United States and even the world… calls from Saudi Arabia and Australia are always interesting.

London Fire

The tragic news from England was indeed awful, and our heart-felt concern and condolences go out to England. The video of the Grenfell Tower going up in flames on June 14, 2017, should be a wake-up call to all of us that what we put on the building has tremendous impact to the public. The initial reports on Grenfell indicate the cladding used had an extremely flammable foam core. This is why designers must insure the products they select are code compliant meeting NFPA fire tests and ratings on flame spread and smoke development. The use of rigid foam as a Continuous Insulation will certainly continue; it is likely that more designers and building departments will insist on relevant test data, better protective coatings and designs. Evidence of this trend has already started with a dramatic increase in phones calls on this subject to the SMA office. Cement stucco is non-combustible and proven over rigid foam in fire tests. Remember, there are restrictions to the type of foam used, thickness and the type of cement covering required over the foam to maintain fire resistance. The SMA will be putting out another paper regarding fire and stucco very shortly.

MESSAGE FROM THE SMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Politics, Construction and Stucco

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

With Spring 2017 almost here and the year well under way, the future has many concerned. It is pretty clear our new President is not going to be business as usual and, depending who you ask, will solicit a different response. While I have always been of the opinion that business cycles change very little with regard to who is President, this time may be different. Since we are in the world of construction and stucco, what could change for us?

One example is the new OSHA silica exposure law that goes into effect June 2017 for contractors and in 2018 for manufacturers. The law was passed with the previous administration, and the new rule has been proclaimed that if you want a new regulation, you must drop two. Will the new Silica law be one that is eventually dropped? While it is very possible, it may be worth noting that OSHA fines are increasing, so is it worth the risk to ignore the new law in the hopes it will be dropped soon? Probably not. A first-time OSHA citation may not be too bad, but they become more and more hurtful until it is a sledge hammer over your head.

The new rule has cut Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL) in about half. OSHA has developed a few paths to compliance. One: verify that all products used or touched contain zero crystalline silica. This is possible, but may not be practical for a variety of reasons. The next option: monitor the air and verify within a reasonable doubt that exposure will be below the PEL for your workers. This is possible, but materials, tools and tasks must not vary. The final option: follow what is called TABLE 1. This table lists tasks and certain engineering controls, such as water delivery and vacuums to keep dust down. In some cases, respirators may be required. If your company adheres to the TABLE 1 directives, you are in compliance and no air testing is required. Most seem to be opting this direction, as OSHA inspectors will generally leave you alone seeing dust levels kept under control. Regardless of which plan you adopt, you must have an Exposure Control Plan and an assigned Competent person. You must also offer medical exams to those required to wear respirators. If you are holding out for the rule to be overturned, I hope you are right. The price could be steep if you are wrong.

The ASTM committees on lathing and plastering have been very active. Changes are coming with regard to design and installation of lath and cement stucco. The way contractors did stucco in the past will no longer be compliant to ASTM standards. There are even proposals for additional or brand-new standards in stucco. It is likely that cement stucco will become more complicated with fewer options.

PLEASE NOTE: SMA OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Mark Fowler, Executive Director
Marlene Lampert, Office Manager
Stucco Manufacturers Association
5753 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd, Suite G-156
Anaheim, CA 92807
Office: 213 379 5890
Mark@stuccomfgassoc.com
Marlene@stuccomfgassoc.com

SAVE THE DATE — NEXT SMA MEETING ON MAY 24

The next SMA meeting will be May 24 at Yorba Linda Country Club and cover the new OSHA silica exposure ruling. Program details, speakers, flyer and online sign-up will be available soon.

 

Feature Articles

What is Rain Screen?

Rain screen has been historically credited to being started in Canada, though other countries contend they actually created the idea long before the Canadians. The concept is fairly simple if you understand concealed barrier moisture management systems. These systems have been common for the cement stucco industry for many decades. Rain screen came about in the 1960s and quickly died. The cost to install rain screen became prohibitive, and most designers and owners felt comfortable with concealed barrier claddings and spending the extra money for rain screen seemed pointless. Times have changed. It should be noted there have always been two methods to stucco moisture management prior to rain screen: barrier and concealed barrier.

BARRIER STUCCO is the oldest stucco assembly known to man. It is still commonly used in many parts of the world. It is a two-coat cement stucco over concrete or masonry substrates. The stucco or plaster coating adds weather protection and an aesthetic appeal to plain masonry walls. This can be traced back centuries. The picture with the medieval characters is dated from 1510 and was renovated again in 1860. There is no drainage provision and the cement plaster keeps the water out of the building. It certainly does not hurt that the walls are over 24 inches thick of masonry or rock. The concept still works, as masonry is a stout building material and does not tend to move or flex. Cracks that do develop tend to be very tight hairline and are not a problem for water intrusion. The next SMA newsletter article [below] explains why. Large cracks can and do occur on occasions, and patches can be seen on these old building for repair of large or wide cracks.

CONCEALED BARRIER STUCCO is the most commonly used in the United States. This is due to the fact Americans use more framing than other parts of the world. Framing with a thin cement shell required a shift in methodology for moisture management. First, framing tends to be more flexible and these walls move more than masonry walls. This is an advantage and even preferable during seismic events. While masonry can be used in seismic prone regions, the design requires significant amounts of extra steel reinforcing. Wood and steel framing have been popular in the U.S. for over one hundred years. There was a learning curve from putting stucco over masonry to stucco over framing. The first decades did not go well, and problems occurred. It was discovered that even small amounts of water that work behind stucco, that had no impact on masonry, had tremendous impact on bare wood. The solution was to place a layer of rag felt that was commonly used on roofs behind the stucco to protect the wood framing. Soon flashings improved, weep screed came along in 1954, and by the 1960s stucco was a recognized functional concealed barrier assembly. The rag felts were soon replaced with more vapor permeable asphaltic kraft building papers. This system was the basis for the Uniform Building Code and various standards for several decades. Concealed barrier worked, as minor or “incidental” moisture was kept from reaching the water-sensitive wood. The system was basic, simple, easily taught to workers.

RAIN SCREEN is the concept to add an air space between the cement plaster and the building felt or paper. Furring strips can be used. This space allows for faster and more drainage of water. If the top and bottom of the assembly are kept open, the system becomes a Pressure Equalized systems to negate negative pressures and facilitate drying. The system, just as it did in 1960, adds substantial costs to installations. It also tends to be complex with more intricate detailing required. This is why Building Envelope experts are often employed to help design, pick materials and overview the installation process. The contractor must also charge more as there are more pieces to install.

CODE REQUIRED is a term occasionally used to promote rain screen. Vancouver BC was the first major city to mandate rain screen in the 1990s. Most U.S. cities have no such mandate. It is advisable to contact your local building department to verify that rain screen is not a code minimum requirement. The SMA believes designers should have the option to decide which methodology is best for their building-based substrates, location and proven local practices. Rain screen may be appropriate, but not for every project. While rain screen may be best left for extreme climate zones with frequent wind-driven rains, added cost to design and build a rain screen is generally anywhere from 30% to 75% more than conventional walls. This may not include the cost of a Building Envelope consultant, which is recommended when rain screen is used as the complexity increases. Factors for rain screen design:

• The region has frequent heavy rains
• Very few drying days
• Exposed to wind-driven rain
• No over hangs
• Excessive penetrations in the cement membrane

The vast majority of stucco projects do not need rain screen design for stucco to work. [The furred rain screen graphic is courtesy of the Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau.] Concealed barrier stucco has been verified by Oak Ridge Laboratories to drain excellently. The drying benefit of rain screen is primarily for the cladding material and has little benefit for structural framing per the BRANZ reports on rain screen testing in Australia. Cement plaster, unlike wood siding, is essentially unaffected by moisture. Always check with building department for local requirements.

Stucco, Cracks and Water

The industry acknowledges that occasional hairline cracks in cement stucco are inevitable. The relatively thin brittle stucco shell, properly mixed and applied, is abuse, water, pest and crack resistant when installed correctly. This makes stucco a preferred and affordable exterior cladding for long life with low maintenance. However, under stress, this hard shell can and will develop an occasional hairline crack when the stress overcomes the strength of the plaster. The question that continues to plague the design industry and some experts is: will these cracks in cement stucco cause water passage? The short answer is yes, but the concealed barrier system anticipates incidental will get in. But how much? It should not be surprising that size of the crack has a direct relation to amount of water that will pass the stucco membrane.

The stucco industry stands by the general statement that a hairline crack in a properly mixed and applied cement plaster is not a defect nor source of water intrusion. Ample evidence is available from testing and site investigations. The German Institute of Concrete Technology at Aachen University and the technical paper ( 96-M56) published by the American Concrete Institute are further proof. The published paper on hairline cracking in concrete or cement was developed as a result of testing concrete water pipes. The pipe industry knew hairline cracks in cement pipes were not an issue for leaks. The research and paper explains in very scientific terms how and why hairline cracks tend to seal themselves through a process called “Autogenous” healing. Simply put, when free water passes through cracks in cement, calcium carbonate and other minerals are formed and these are proven to seal small to even medium fissures in cement. Constructors of concrete water towers knew this, too, as they built hundreds of these towers all across America in the 1950s and ’60s.

How do hairline cracks work in cement stucco? Federal Testing Labs was commissioned to test the porosity of cement stucco at ¾ inch thickness in the 1990s. The local plaster bureau verified the cement plaster was mixed per ASTM and applied with sufficient pressure to encase the lath, then properly floated to densify the basecoat and moist cured. No finish coat was added. After water testing, it was determined the un-cracked cement plaster did not allow the passage of water, even after extended periods of time. This is no surprise, as previous and other tests have provided similar results. The question was “what if the panel had a hairline crack in it?” It seemed a fair question as most cement stucco will develop a few hairline cracks. It was agreed to intentionally stress the mock-up (test Panel 4) to induce a horizontal hairline crack less than 1/16 of an inch wide. It was verified the crack went completely through the  3/4 cement membrane. The building paper was removed on the backside of the cement plaster. The crack was then traced with a felt pen for clear visual observation.

On the face side of the stucco panel, the water supply was directed to spray above at the horizontal crack. Water output exceeded ASTME 1105 requirement of 5 gallons per square foot per one hour. On the backside of the panel, water immediately started to come through as the thin dark line became thick almost instantly, see picture with thin dark line. This was concerning, as water came in fast. After just 45 seconds, the water was running, finding the lower valleys of the crack, and very visible drips were extending down as much as eight inches.

After 90 seconds of continual water application, the drips stopped growing and appeared to be even drying up. Refer to the picture with the red tape completely around the test area. Looking closely, one can see the outer edges were not as saturated. There were concerns the water supply had stopped. However, the water spray was continuous and steady.

After 5 full minutes of continual water spray at the hairline crack in stucco, the drips became clearly less saturated. The hairline crack itself was wet, but water had clearly stopped coming through the crack. Refer to the picture with no red tape along the bottom of the test wall. This picture was taken at the five-minute mark into the water test and it was obvious the bulk water passage had stopped. The stucco industry has always stood by the statement that hairline cracks in cement stucco have little to no impact on water leakage through countless investigations. This testing by Federal Labs verified why water and hairline cracks in stucco are generally not problematic. Comments by observers where made as to the impact negative pressure might have had on this test. It was agreed that having a concealed barrier of black paper, house wrap, fluid applied membrane and the interior gypsum wallboard in place would negate the effects of any negative pressure. This would be representative of what happens in the real world with regard to hairline cracks on a properly mixed and applied cement plaster.

Years later, the term Autogenous healing and the science made more sense. Some experts note this test had no negative pressure. While absolutely true, negative pressure is like a vacuum that can suck the water through the crack. However, on most buildings that have a stucco cladding, the cavity is filled with insulation, covered with gypsum wallboard and then taped. This is an air barrier and would negate that negative pressure. The Energy Code confirms that a layer of gypsum board, taped and sealed, is a code-compliant air barrier.

Industry Crack Policy

The argument—over what is a hairline crack, should it be fixed and is it a water problem—may never be resolved. However, there is consensus in the industry on some issues regarding cracks in stucco. Fifteen industry associations ranging from manufacturers to contractors and covering regions from Illinois to Texas and Washington to California produced a joint Technical Bulletin in 2008. The technical paper covers cracks in stucco, types, likely causes, and the recommended width cracks when cracks should be repaired. The paper is entitled Technical Bulletin 4 and available as a free download.

• Plaster Council Stucco Crack Policy

 

Industry News

noteworthy:

• After several decades in the Southern California market, Expo Stucco has closed down operations.
• The ASTM is preparing new standard on plaster trim accessories.
• The SMA is working with other groups in Washington, D.C. to provide education and training on lath and plaster.

Buck Buchanan to Retire from Parex USA

After 21 years with Parex, Buck has decided to retire from the company. Buck joined Parex in Georgia in 1996, and prior to that he spent 15 years with Sto. During his time with Parex, he saw the company experience tremendous growth as well as survive the economic crisis that started in 2008.

He started with Parex as the Director of Technical Services, R&D, and Marketing. In 2001, Buck took on a new challenge as the Director of Sales. His job was to grow sales and develop a national distribution network.

When Parex acquired La Habra and El Rey Stucco in the early 2000s, Buck continued to lead the Parex sales team. In 2005 the company decided to merge the three businesses together, and Buck was selected to lead the transition. In 2006, he took on yet another challenge and moved from Georgia to California to serve as Vice President of Sales of the Façade Business. Tasked with developing that business division, he oversaw the sales force, marketing and national sales.

In early 2016, Buck moved back to the South as the Sr. Vice President. In this role, he oversaw international business across 27 countries. He was also involved with the Parex USA architectural sales team and assisted with mergers and acquisitions.

Buck has a long history of being involved with the EIFS trade association (EIMA) and has served as president three different times. He has also served on the boards of the SMA and the AWCI Insurance Company.

In 2015 Buck became a published author with his first book, First and Thirty, which is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle. For more information about his book visit his website: www.booksbybuck.com

Going forward, Buck seeks other challenges—maybe other books, consulting, new ventures, or just being a Grandpa, time will tell.

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Cement plaster is the best cladding — or the worst

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

After doing decades of architectural presentations on stucco, I came to the realization that cement plaster was the best cladding and owner can put on a building, I also realized it could be the worst. I would frequently start my architectural presentations with this sentence. This confusing statement is true due to the stout nature of the cement membrane over a lath. The stucco membrane cladding is classified as an air barrier when applied to a minimum 5/8 inch thickness per the International Energy Conservation Code under assemblies and materials. In addition, when properly mixed and applied, the membrane is highly water resistant. This makes cement stucco an incredible cladding in resisting the passage of air and moisture. This further explains why it can be so good or so bad.

Problems occur when flashings at terminations or penetrations are missing or incorrectly installed. They can allow water entry behind the membrane. The cement plaster is applied over a building paper and as the paper wrinkles from being wet, shallow channels are formed. The paper dries and shrinks back leaving a small drainage plane. Another favorite remark I would make is that this is like a country road. It can handle some traffic, but not the heavy traffic of the Interstates. Water will be absorbed into the cement and even travel down. This system can only handle so much, thus the term incidental moisture. Rain screen was born to make a bigger highway. This is acceptable, but it is typically far less expensive to minimize water entry. Remember, this is not a barrier assembly, so 100% water proofing is not required. When proper water management is achieved, the cement cladding is virtually impervious and superior to other cladding materials. This explains why people all over the USA can report on stucco buildings over fifty years old with little to no problems. Stucco has history, a great history. Done wrong, excess water gets in and overwhelms the moisture management design and problems can occur. Stucco can work as well in the southwest as it does in the rain or in the cold. There are some great homes in Chicago, New York and Minneapolis with stucco that were done almost a hundred years ago still servicing as a great cladding. A good stucco job is really not that hard to achieve, you need two things.

1. Good details
2. Proper installation

DETAILS: The industry has generally failed to produce or accept a series of generic basic details for stucco. This is even more noticeable with Continuous Insulation becoming increasingly popular. Details should not be overly complex. Complexity adds unnecessary cost and confusion. Confusion leads to conflict and delays. In addition, the detail is truly reliant on the last person in the chain, the guy putting it in. Complexity at this level is recipe for disaster.

INSTALLATION: A good installer is the key. Do not be fooled by size. Just because an architect is from a large firm or the contractor is a big name means very little with regard to real skill and knowledge. Some of the smaller design firms do the best detailing, and specialty plastering contractors are generally the better stucco installers. Both these groups know that stucco requires more attention to flashing than most other cladding materials. If the building paper or house wrap is installed incorrectly or reverse lapped, problems are sure to occur. Reverse laps are one of the prime causes of water intrusion. Experience in knowing what to look for is the key to success, not the size of the company or how many employees, trucks or offices they have.

 

PLEASE NOTE: SMA OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Mark Fowler, Executive Director
Marlene Lampert, Office Manager
Stucco Manufacturers Association
5753 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd, Suite G-156
Anaheim, CA 92807
Office: 213 379 5890
Mark@stuccomfgassoc.com
Marlene@stuccomfgassoc.com

 

RECORD GOLF TOURNAMENT

The annual SMA Golf Tournament was held at Strawberry Farms in Irvine with record attendance. The weather was perfect as the crowd enjoyed a great networking day. The discussion on stucco issues including sand, market share and ways to improve the industry continued from the membership meeting that was held just the day before.

The day started with three player play-off for the putting tournament. Steve Grant, Mike Miaette and Jose Ibara all scored a 5 during regular play. In a sudden death and closest to the pin, each player had to putt to a new hole with backs turned so they had no idea of the break or how the competitors did. Jose Ibara just edged out Steve and Mike.

All the proceeds on the putting tournament go to Wounded Warrior Home Foundation. This group is accredited by the Patriot Initiative as fully transparent in helping returning wounded Vets who are essentially homeless. This new group has limited resources and hopes to expand into actual construction projects someday. Visit them at www.woundedwarrierhomes.org and help the SMA be a more proactive partner.

The scramble format allowed for some very low scores. Second place was won with a score of 57 by the team of Victor Cronkite, TJ Gillen, Max Carreon and Jack Mardiros. The winning score was a blistering 53 shot by the team of Eric Shimp, Jonathan Shimp, Tyler Miller and Jared Miller. Long Drive was won by Jeff Swanson, Closest to the Pin was Rui Bronze and John Calicchio.

 

SAVE THE DATE — NEXT SMA MEETING ON NOVEMBER 16

The next SMA membership meeting will be held on November 16 at Antonello’s in Santa Ana and present “Continuous Insulation, the Energy Code and Stucco.”

The new Title 24 laws are changing before our very eyes. Being up-to-date will provide opportunities for some and trouble for others. You can decide your future only by knowing the rule. Our Speaker is Mr. Nick Brown, an expert on Title 24 issues — and he knows stucco. He will cover what was, what is and what will likely be our future. Designers and even contractors may have options to be compliant with the code. You do not want to miss this informative program. Space is limited, so book now.

 

 

FEATURE ARTICLES

CODE ADOPTS RIGID FOAM

The Continuous Insulation (CI) issue is not going away. While some plastering contractors may wish CI to go away, it won’t. Energy is not getting cheaper, we need better insulation and while most cities can elect to mandate compliance to the Energy Code, that just got easier to do.

Most code authorities had concerns about putting stucco over rigid foam. A lack of direction on secure attachment, how much rigid foam, and could stucco over foam be code compliant were unaddressed issues. It is not the building department’s job or even their desire to design your building. They are laser focused on public/safety and site inspections of all things related to public safety. This would include fire ratings, structural loads and the attachment of claddings. When rigid foam became increasingly popular, they were naturally hesitant. The new 2016 code will change all that.

Chapter 7 of the IRC now includes table R 703.15.1. These tables cover the installation of exterior rigid foam, the maximum allowable thickness, and the fastener spacing for the weight of the cladding selected. The weight of claddings is broken into three groups, 3 psf, 11psf and 25 psf. Three-coat cement stucco is assumed to weigh 11 psf. This effectively ends the debate of whether stucco over foam is code compliant. It is prescriptively listed in the upcoming code. The stucco industry needs to embrace this new direction with less complication and lead the way to better buildings. One-coat or three-coat stucco can be done over rigid foam, both are fully code approved.

 

PUMPING PLASTER

The machine application of cement plaster is key to increased production. Even Paul Bunyon could not keep up with machines. Today we have a host of plaster pumps available. In the Southwest, most use a four-cylinder gas or diesel piston-style to pump cement plaster basecoat. These machines are large, loud and pump a massive amount of material. They are also expensive — there are many new cars that are cheaper. They pay for themselves, though, in the volume and production of plaster pumped per day. Some large crews will routinely pump up to 50 tons of plaster in eight hours. This can translate to over 20,000 square feet of plaster on the wall. The downside is these machines need volumes of work to keep running.

The tract-home market of the southwest fits this machine perfectly. These machines also need large crews. The crews must work together. Unlike drywall hangers that can work alone, this machine requires a group of skilled plasterers and hod carriers. Each knows what his job is and what the guy next to him is doing and why — similar to NFL offensive line. As a team, they can do amazing amounts of work. With no teamwork or bad leadership, they are a waste of time and money. Again like the offensive line in football, the more they work together under proper coaching, the better they get.

 

IT IS JUST SAND

Many architects and builders think sand is sand. To the experienced plastering contractor, sand is critical to a good stucco job. The first fact is sand makes up abut 70% of the volume of the prepared material to apply. 70% of anything should be looked at carefully and not taken for granted. Yet many people simply look at it as just sand, some even comment it is just plaster sand, what’s the big deal?

THE FINISH COAT: The finish coat of stucco is typically applied to achieve a desired texture or appearance. Cement or acrylic finishes require close attention to sand sizing. Sizing of sand is done through sieves and called gradation. It should not be surprising to learn fine sand sizes produce more delicate textures. Most common is a 20/30 sand. Large sand sizes result in more coarse finishes. These are generally a 16/20 size. Issues with finish coat sands are not very common, which may be a reason many look past the issue. Most finish stucco material for plaster use is with a manufactured sand pre-blended in the bag. This mix is closely monitored at the factory and precisely measured as it is bagged and then shipped. The result is good, clean and well-graded sand for the plasterer to use. Mistakes can happen when the contractor selects the wrong product or decides to blend it himself.

THE BASECOAT: The basecoat of cement plaster is where the use of aggregates becomes a much bigger issue. The availability of washed plaster sand is becoming scarce in many regions of the country. Even if good sand is available, there is a cost and in extreme downward pricing markets, some contractors will use bad sand to save a few dollars. As the volume of cement plaster basecoat is 70% sand, selection of sand quality is critical. The three prime characteristics that should be looked at for basecoat plaster sand are:

GRADATION, SHAPE AND CLEANLINESS
These characteristics will greatly determine and affect the workability, shrinkage, porosity and durability of the stucco basecoat. The ASTM for basecoat aggregates is C-897 and the charts for US standard sieve sizing and percent retained by weight and related ASTM test data are good information, but can be overload for contractors and architects.

Gradation: The size of the sand particles is important. A good plaster basecoat mix should have a good variation of sizes of sand. The reason is that when placed and compacted, the various sizes will fit tighter together and have less voids. Voids should be limited as they are filled with cement and lime paste. It is the cement and lime that shrinks as the plaster cures.

Why not use all fines to eliminate voids? The answer is that fines have very little strength. It would be like concrete without the rocks. The plaster membrane would be weaker and lessen the ability to resist stresses imposed upon it.

Shape: Sand shape for basecoat plaster is preferred to be somewhat angular for basecoat plaster. This further minimizes the voids and adds strength.

Cleaniness: This is the most overlooked, neglected and important characteristic of basecoat plaster mixing. Sand that has a lot of dirt and clay absorb more mix water. This results in excessive shrinkage as the plaster cures. The reason for a prolific use of sand with clay or dirt — it is easier to pump and very workable. It is also less expensive than washed plaster sand. In some cases washed plaster sand can cost twice as much as unwashed plaster sand. While this may not seem significant on a single mixer batch of plaster, it is when crews can use as much as 50 tons a day.

The issue of basecoat plaster with clean sand is a challenge. Dirty sand makes pumping much easier. The dirt or clay acts as a lubricant. The incentive to use dirty sand is all too tempting to many contractors.

It is recommended to specify a basecoat sand for cement plaster that complies with ASTM C 897. For project managers, there is a reasonable chance you will hear from your plastering contractor that he is unable to obtain a certificate of compliance with C 897. Some regions of the country have serious issues complying with C 897. The code and standard authorities have had this issue for decades and have provided a solution. In ASTM C 897 there is a provision under Physical Properties.

The aggregates failing to meet the gradation requirements shall be accepted if there is evidence that plasters of comparable properties made from similar aggregates from the same source and exposed to weathering similar to that to be encountered for a period of not less than five years without appreciable disintegration.

CONCLUSION: For those that want good basecoat stucco, get an ASTM certificate or letter confirming the above language. While sizing and gradation are important, the cleanliness of the sand is critical. Pre-blended products with sand, bags and silos are generally very good sand quality mixes and meet C-897. Finish coat plaster products are recommended to be blended by a manufacture for best results. The accuracy of sand particle size and percentage of sand used with cement paste is critical to the final appearance of the texture desired.

 

THE FIRE RESISTANCE OF PORTLAND CEMENT PLASTER

Cement plaster (stucco) has been listed as a protective membrane in all code tables since codes were incepted. Cement plaster, including lath and the water-reistant barries are considered “non combustible” and suitable all types of construction, including Type I, the most restrictive by fire codes.

ONE HOUR RATING:
7/8 inch thickness cement plaster has been tested and proven to provide a one-hour fire membrane over all vertical framed partitions when the following conditions have been met:

Walls:

1. Wood studs must be a nominal size not less than a 2×4
2. Metal studs must be a minimum 20 guage ( 33 mils)
3. All studs must not exceed 24 inches on center spacing
4. Maximum Deflection Criteria should be L/360

Ceilings of lath and plaster to qualify for one hour fire rating membrane require:

• Wood joists must be a nominal size not less than 2×8
• Wood joists shall not exceed 16 inches o.c. spacing
• The lath shall be approved for soffit or ceiling applications
• Suspended lath and plaster ceilings comply with ASTM C1063

In all cases the attachment of the lath must be secure to framing or furring members and capable to support a minimum 11 psf with a safety factor of 6.5.

I CAN’T FIND A TEST!
It is virtually impossible and certainly impractical to test every possible assembly configuration for fire resistance. Fortunately, that is not always necessary. While the SMA always encourages the use of tested assemblies to insure compliance, the use of Hermathy’s Ten Rules of fire ratings have been documented by HUD, EPA, FEMA and available on the ICC SAFE website. Final approval is always by the local Building Official.
The ten rules should be reviewed carefully by experts on fire-resistivity and the construction involved with the application of the particular rule. The following is only brief synapsis of each fire rule:

1. The sum of materials is greater in protection than individual parallel layers
2. Fire endurance does not decrease with adding layers
3. Air gaps will generally improve fire resistance
4. The farther the air gap from the exposed surface, improves fire endurance
5. Fire endurance is not increased by a wider air gap
6. Materials with low thermal conductivity are best on the fire side
7. Asymmetrical construction depends on the direction of the heat flow
8. Moisture increases fire resistance
9. Load supporting elements yield higher fire resistance
10. Load supporting elements may be replaced with non load bearing elements of equal endurance

The rules of fire endurance each have special conditions to adhere to, limitations and require good engineering principles be applied. Architects and contractors can get approval from a group/expert or entity that understands how Hermathy’s rules are used, options for archaic, and unusual fire assemblies may be presented. The architect of record is the first person to approve the use of the rule, and final approval is from the local Building Official. The SMA has been involved with this process with plaster as many older structures have plaster in some form or another. Retrofitting does not mean known fire resistant materials have to be discarded simply because it is part of a non-tested assembly. The SMA has found that most building officials are agreeable to proper interpretation of Hermathy’s rules with substantiation of ratings and with sound engineering principles.

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Planning a Future for the Growth of Stucco and Plaster

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

Your SMA committees have been hard at work creating documents and strategic planning a future for the growth of stucco and plaster. There are four committees and all SMA members may participate.

ONE COAT: This committee is working with the National One Coat Stucco Association. Project items include working on a large-scale fire test, revising Continuous Insulation protocols, a planned joint meeting with our friends in Texas, and methods to better harmonize and consolidate Evaluation Reports and ASTM standards for one coat.

THREE COAT: This committee has finished a generic three-coat guide specification for cement stucco. Architects and design firms across the United States have been asking for it and the SMA is delivering. This will be the most up to date and comprehensive specification available. The committee has also produced a letter defining and clarifying the differences between EIFS, One and three-coat stucco. This was needed as a response to EIFS exclusion riders with erroneous definitions of stucco.

Another important paper is the SMA position on flashing guidance for a nail-flange window. While the procedure is the same as AAMA and ASTM, the SMA paper goes a step farther to clarify options between the stucco assembly and the window frame for nail flange style windows. The paper has caveats and several options to assist designers and contractors.

TRIM ACCESSORIES: This committee has created a document on impacts of cement in contact with aluminum and corrosion issues, due to be released soon. The committee has a slate of issues to work on regarding reveals, and attachments of accessories. Meetings to start this Fall.

MARKETING: The 2016 US stucco market share report has been well received. Calls and inquiries have been coming in from around the United States. Most agree that it has drawn needed attention to the concerns that plastering needs more attention in marketing efforts. Your SMA marketing committee is currently gathering data to improve and expand next year’s report.

If you have interest in participation in any of the committees, let the SMA office know. Most meetings are online and simply require logging in.

 

SMA RELEASES GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR THREE-COAT STUCCO

Architects have been calling the SMA offices for guide specifications and details on three-coat stucco. The SMA has responded with generic specifications suitable for the entire United States. These specifications on generic three-coat stucco have the backing of manufacturers of the stucco products installed by the lath and plastering contractors. These are up-to-date specifications that are available in Word format. Products are specifically listed in generic terms. There will be two guide specifications for designers to select from: One is for cement stucco over framing members and the other specification is for cement stucco over concrete or masonry substrates.

Architects and builders can feel confident these new specifications are intended to provide a cost effective installation and minimize RFIs and avoid costly change orders when specifying cement stucco. The new specifications allow for options by the designer and helpful tips on making the best selection for your particular project using cement stucco.

RAINSCREEN: Cement stucco over framed and masonry substrates have proven themselves long lasting and aesthetically appealing in all climates around North America. The option of enhanced drainage is an option for designers to consider. Rainscreen is not required or necessary to assure cement stucco will work as a serviceable cladding. Projects in Chicago, New York and even Seattle are working just fine. Good design, basic flashings and quality installations are your best assurance to code compliant stucco. Rainscreen is an optional upgrade, unless mandated by local Building departments.

 

SMA RELEASES FLASHING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NAIL-FLANGE WINDOWS

Nail-flange style windows have been around for over forty years in the residential market. Many have been installed in structures that are clad with cement stucco. A debate on the issue of how to treat stucco termination around the window frame continues. The SMA taskforce spent a considerable amount of time researching the issue for Code compliance, past performance and suitability for today’s more airtight structures. The committee also reviewed the newest requirements by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) to insure compliance with the code and standards.

The SMA developed a flashing procedure that is based on AAMA and ASTM procedures. These procedures are well established and stop short on the recommendation for a casing bead and sealant around windows. The SMA has taken position to provide assurance for developers, designers, code authorities and contractors. The SMA paper and procedure is available as a free download on the SMA website under “Technical Resources: Details.” All four pages must be used and each step for flashing is critical for success.

These papers published by the SMA have significance for design and installation. The SMA has been in existence since 1957 and code authorities recognize SMA publications. The SMA works hard to produce industry relevant and consensus documents that provide an approved industry practice and standards for best practices. The SMA has no intention or desire to challenge any code language, restrict options or limit creativity. In most cases this is to enhance or clarify the manufacturer’s intent on how their products should be installed. There are a few instances were the SMA will provide an “Alternative” to prescribed code language. This may seem incongruent with traditional policy: however, the Building Code specifically allows for alternatives to the code when they are approved by the local Building Official. The Building Official will typically approve an alternate provided there is some authoritative back up. This would be an Evaluation Report, a manufacturer’s directive or possibly a paper from the SMA.

 

SMA AND AUSTRALIA

The SMA has been in contact with the Australian government. Currently we are merely exchanging ideas and learning from each other on best practices. The representative for the Australian plastering training programs is coming to the U.S. next year and will meet the SMA executive director to further explore opportunities for each side. Do you speak Aussie?

1. Rendering is the Australian term Americans use for:
A. Decorative paint over cement stucco
B. Cementitious stucco
C. An acrylic finish coat
D. Stucco over masonry

2. The most common form of stucco in Australia is:
A. Lath, scratch, brown and color
B. Stucco over foam
C. Acrylic finish over cement board
D. Venetian plaster

3. In Australia when a construction worker asks for a top hat, what does he want?
A. Furring channel
B. A lid for a bucket
C. A toilet
D. Your hoodie

4. Sarking in Australia is what in America?
A. A short shark hunting trip
B. A water and air barrier
C. A prime coat of paint
D. The double-back method of plastering

ANSWERS … 1.D, 2.C, 3.A, 4.B

 

PLEASE NOTE: SMA OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Mark Fowler, Executive Director
Marlene Lampert, Office Manager
Stucco Manufacturers Association
5753 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd, Suite G-156
Anaheim, CA 92807
Office: 213 379 5890
Mark@stuccomfgassoc.com
Marlene@stuccomfgassoc.com

 

SMA’S 4TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT – SEPTEMBER 22

The 4th annual SMA golf tournament is set for September 22 at Strawberry Farms in Irvine, CA. The format is a scramble and the course is challenging. This is a great place to network with industry friends and have some fun. <<SIGN UP NOW>> We would like to thank our Major Sponsors that make this tournament a success. The SMA encourages you to support these companies as they have supported the industry and promotion of stucco.

SMA acknowledges these outstanding companies and their fine products:

OMEGA PRODUCTS
Omega produces a wide range of quality stucco products.

FRY REGLET
Fry Reglet is the premier name in architectural trims for drywall and plaster.

CAL PORTLAND CEMENT
Cal Portland (Riverside) cement has been a Southern California leader in plastering for decades.

PAREX USA
Parex is a global company with possibly the largest range of products in the industry.

TREE ISLAND STEEL
We know them as K-Lath, a long history of unmatched quality for lath and trims.

 

MEMBER MEETING IS AT NEW LOCATION: SEPTEMBER 21

The SMA’s September 21 membership meeting will be at a new location — The Club at Anaheim Hills. We plan a great lunch and plenty of parking. <<SIGN UP NOW>>

The topic will be sand. Sand makes up over 70% of any stucco mix and we have had issues with supply and quality; what the future holds is very uncertain. Todd Miller of ACG Aggregates is an expert at sand, sand sources and what future supplies look like. A small panel of experts will include Tim McGuire and Jim Dean of PW Gillibrand Co. for a question and answer period. Contractors and dealers should attend this meeting and bring their questions on sand. This information will help guide you to make smarter business decisions on your sand selections for base and finish coats of stucco.

 

AIA AND THE SMA

The acronym AIA stands for American Institute of Architects. Your SMA has an online program meant to introduce architects to stucco basics. This program has been up and running for a few years and the response from the design community has been strong. Architects that log on are not all from the southwest, in fact most are from areas where stucco is not overly popular. Does this mean these areas want stucco? The SMA is here to help them get it.

 

 

FEATURE ARTICLES

PROPERTIES OF STUCCO

Stucco, a cladding, is similar to wood, vinyl or fiber cement. Yet, cement stucco seems to be in class of its own. The SMA is often asked what should the compressive strength of installed stucco be? Do the designers ask that of wood or vinyl? The SMA has no official position or set minimum requirement. It should be noted that neither does the building code or ASTM. This makes sense as stucco is not a structural component, it is only a cladding. Some experts claim a standard should be set for stucco. Will this be the standard for all claddings?

It is unlikely most other claddings could meet compressive qualities of a properly mixed and applied cement stucco. Since every siding material serves as a cladding to protect against weather, water resistance and be durable, there should be some guidelines. It is generally agreed that stucco performs well between 1,300 and 3,000 psi.

The confusion may come from the ASTM standards that require a manufacturer to produce cements that meet or exceed certain values, such as compression. ASTM C 150 has very high compressive values, around 2,400 psi. This is simple cement with no plasticizers. This product would not be suitable for plastering. A better reference is ASTM C 1328, Plastic Cement specifically designed for stucco work. This ASTM has a requirement of 1,300 psi and tops out at 2,900 psi.

Stucco is essentially fabricated on site with bagged cement products. The conditions for installation can vary widely and rarely match the laboratory. This can result in an even wider range of compressive values for installed stucco. The target to shoot for is about 1,500 psi, a little lower or higher is not a problem.

Excessively hard stucco is often desired by designers, but their is no proof extremely high compressive values provide longer service life or benefit to a cement stucco membrane.

 

LABOR SHORTAGE AND STUCCO PRICES

The United States is suffering a current labor shortage in the construction trades. The more skilled the trade, the greater the shortage. This puts lathing and plastering as one of the more critical industries likely to suffer during labor shortages in the future. The long-term impacts of a labor shortage can impact stucco market share. The economy works on supply and demand: the greater the demand, supply must follow to meet demand. If demand decreases, supply of workers will naturally decline. A region where plastering prices suddenly skyrocket can be signs of trouble on the horizon. If the cause of high prices is the result of greater demand for stucco, supply should follow and prices will level out. However, if prices climb due to other reasons, such as a lack of skilled workers, this could be problematic. Taking advantage of a crisis for immediate gains can lead to a long-term loss. Designers will move away from stucco to other claddings. This can be noted in regions where stucco once had respectable market share but new trends tend to be moving away from stucco.

Conversely, the opposite is true. If developers have an abundance of labor for a particular trade, extreme pressures on pricing tends to push prices very low and the industry equally suffers. Extreme pressure on pricing results in paying people less, buying the lowest cost products, some not meeting industry standards or ASTM specifications. An example would be sand quality. Well graded and washed plaster sand can cost twice as much as dirty clay-filled sand. Since sand is 70% of the stucco makeup, sand prices impact final costs. Industries that resort to shaving pennies result in contractors losing work, and then consider using inferior quality sand to remain competitive.

Labor for installing lath and plaster requires knowledge and skill. Knowledge to do it right and skill to be productive. Extreme low prices due to pressures on pricing or unscrupulous business practices can reach and impact the labor market. Knowledgeable labor with the skills to perform at productive levels can also be forced to either look the other way at defective substrates and improper flashings or hire lower-cost labor to complete the installations. Regardless of how the super low prices are achieved, the result is the same. Leaks, cracks and marketshare loss.

The price for installed stucco can vary around the country. There is no single answer for what stucco should cost to have installed. Regions vary — strong stucco markets tend to use a square yard pricing, while other regions use a square foot price. Price will depend largely on the available labor to install at productive levels. If the production level to install stucco drops and prices also drop, this is a warning sign that material cheating could be occurring. Our installation practices have been altered to allow extreme low wages or unit pricing to deviate from acceptable practices. In either case, market share will ultimately suffer due to poor quality and defects. If prices increase and production decreases, this can be sign of either over complexity in stucco assemblies or lack of a skilled labor pool. In either case, prices hit a tipping points, and market share is lost.

The stucco industry needs skilled workers in lathing and plastering to keep quality intact, production levels reasonably high and installations serviceable to the building owner. It is hard to find any other trade more impacted by skilled labor, or a lack of it. Stucco is and should be a premium cladding, but price tipping points exist and we should know the competition. Often we focus on the fellow plastering contractor when the real competition is other claddings.

PRESIDENT’S LETTER: Thinking Beyond Your Typical Competition

Kevin Wensel, Omega Products International

Plaster wall systems and stucco finishes remain a popular cladding option in many parts of the country, but there are some troubling trends. In some regions of the country that have been traditionally stucco, other claddings are starting to be used more often. Some of this change seems to be driven by the design trend to mix different types of claddings: designers like the look of combining plaster, stone, brick, and/or siding on one building.

Losing market share is something that our industry should be concerned about. I think we often look at our “competition” as other manufacturers that make the same products as our company — if you make stucco then other stucco manufacturers, if you make lath then other lath manufacturers, etc. We spend most of our energy trying to get the same projects that were already going to have plaster on them. This type of competition will always be part of business. However we also need to broaden our definition of competition to include other claddings.

As individual companies and as an industry, we need to try to increase the market share of plaster in areas where plaster and stucco could and should be more relevant. We need to be working with designers and builders to be explaining the benefits of plaster versus other claddings. We should also be working with applicators and local jurisdictions to insure the plaster is being applied properly, so that issues are mitigated and plaster has a good reputation.

In short, fighting over the same slice of pie is not the best use of our energy and collective talents, we should grow our collective market. Consumers like the stucco look, designers want to use stucco, so it is an open market. Our challenge is that some industries try to frighten consumers about stucco or plaster. Stucco is an amazing cladding and one of the lowest cost life cycle claddings over a 30-year period. With all the benefits of stucco cladding, our market should be expanding.

The SMA is uniquely positioned to help be an advocate for the industry. We are actively working on plans to promote stucco and help drive increased market share. If you have ideas and/or are willing to participate in this goal, then please contact Mark Fowler or me. Together we can keep the stucco market strong and growing.

 

 

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: SMA’s Influence in the Industry

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

When I started as Executive Director for the SMA, I had a decent idea of what to expect. What I was unaware of was the influence the SMA has in the industry. As the Director, I receive the reports on the number of hits and visits to your SMA website. For January we had a total 107,787 hits from 8,726 visits and a plethora of other information that seems staggering. The confirmation of these numbers is how many phone calls and emails keep pouring in. I became a believer — the numbers and the SMA are for real. Many calls come from outside of California. Michigan, Mississippi, New York, New Mexico, Florida, Washington, Utah and Texas have all been calling the SMA. Almost all are looking for answers to a technical question or some kind of help with plaster or stucco. The calls are from architects, builders, home owners and even building inspectors. Trying to answer all the calls and emails is a daunting task. But we see the SMA as the Better Business Bureau for the plaster industry, and we are here to help.

Stucco is great cladding, and done correctly with good product, there is no better cladding for your building. Conversely, if the wrong products are used or an improper installation of lath and/or plaster is done, stucco can seem to be the worst selection in cladding. Stucco can work in Alaska, Arizona or New York; it just has to be installed correctly. The mystery and variety of options in stucco application has designers and owners confused and this is the driving force behind the Lath and Plaster Committee of the SMA. The SMA is striving to provide standards and develop a quality assurance program to improve the stucco market. Successful stucco projects mean that others will follow; stucco failures result in a loss of trust in a cladding and will result in a shrinking stucco market. This is our future, and all of us must put our best foot forward to promote good practices and keep stucco growing. Feel free to contact the SMA with any suggestions, comments or concerns. We welcome everyone as we work together to grow your plaster market.

 

NEW TECH BULLETINS

The SMA committees are hard at work producing a series of specifications, details and bulletins to improve the stucco industry. The goal is to create the most extensive technical library for lath plaster in the industry that has the widest industry input. SMA and the Lath and Plaster Committee are made up of manufacturers, dealers, contractors, consultants and architects. SMA members wishing to be on a specific committee should contact the SMA office. There are currently four active committees:

• Three Coat Stucco
• One Coat Stucco
• Accessories
• The Lath and Plaster Committee

Each committee member has input on the various items being proposed for their specific committee. Once the committee approves the bulletin, it then moves to the SMA board of directors for final approval and publication. Members are expected to abide by the SMA bulletins.

 

THE LATH AND PLASTER COMMITTEE

The Lath and Plaster committee is a part of the SMA. L&P committee members are contractors who install lath and plaster and desire to improve the industry and best practices. L&P members hold themselves to a higher standard and have agreed to follow SMA guidelines and By-Laws.

Plastering contractors interested in joining the SMA Lath and Plaster committee need to submit three references for approval into the SMA. Once approved, they must abide to the By-Laws to remain a member in good standing.

 

SMA STUCCO STUDY

The SMA marketing committee has nearly completed its report titled “The U.S. Stucco Market.” This report will contain data from the U.S. census bureau on exterior claddings gathered since the 1970s. It covers historical trends on wood, brick, vinyl, stucco and fiber cement board with regard to market share. Data include predictions from the research team at the University of Kentucky on which claddings are likely to gain market share and which may become irrelevant. The report covers all regions of the U.S. and breaks down the market share numbers in each region.

The report also includes information from various stucco experts with decades of experience in the stucco market. Areas of expertise include training, code development, leaks, litigation, union market share and productivity shifts for the stucco market.

Several factors are examined that influence building owners, architects and even the contractors on the decision to use stucco. The report explores the one-coat stucco market in comparison to the three-coat market. The report explores the regional influences that tend to impact how stucco is used and installed. Recent innovations or trends such as Continuous Insulation, Rain Screen, Crack suppression and air barriers will have an impact on the stucco products manufactured, sold and installed.

Stucco cladding is an option and in competition with other claddings. If you are involved with stucco, this report will assist you in being better prepared to make strategic decisions about the future. Most marketing experts agree understanding the past trends of success or failures, even with other claddings, can help you make more informed decisions. The report will be available to SMA members by late Spring 2016.

 

PLEASE NOTE:  SMA OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Mark Fowler, Executive Director
Marlene Lampert, Office Manager
Stucco Manufacturers Association
5753 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd, Suite G-156
Anaheim, CA 92807
Office: 213 379 5890
Mark@stuccomfgassoc.com
Marlene@stuccomfgassoc.com

 

SAVE THE DATE: MAY 11 LUNCH MEETING

The May 11 meeting of the SMA will feature guest speaker Michael Roberts of Construction Analysis Group II Inc. Mr. Roberts is experienced in plastering and the litigation surrounding lath and plaster, and he is well known as an industry expert. Mr. Roberts will explain the current trend in insurance coverages, including court decisions, that anyone selling, installing or even touching stucco or EIFS needs to know to protect themselves in the future.

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director, will present a brief overview of the SMA’s new report “The U.S. Stucco Market.” This in-depth report includes data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources, with trends and predictions for all regions of the United States specific to stucco.  A copy of the new report will be available to each SMA member present at the meeting. If you manufacture, sell or install stucco/EIFS, you will not want to miss this meeting. Space will be limited; sign-ups will start April 15 on the SMA website.

 

 

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Tarlton and Son, Inc.

Tarlton and Son Inc, from Fresno, has a long history of plastering in California. Their projects range from homes to large commercial work and with three offices they pretty much cover the state. For more information contact Shawn Curry or Blaine Steel at 559.486.0584.

Paoli and Company

Gary Paoli of Paoli and Company has been a designer, contractor and an expert witness. Gary graduated USC with a degree in Architecture and is available for consulting and expert witness work. Gary can be reached at 714.315.6463.

Edward Takahashi, FAIA

Mr. Takahashi is a registered architect and has been involved with some of the state’s major projects. He provides consulting services and expert witness work. Ed can be reached at 323.980.8000.

 

 

FEATURE ARTICLES

MARBLECRETE, A ROSE BY ANOTHER NAME

For those of us not in the Florida stucco market, we might take a lesson in innovation of stucco. Marblecrete is a cement stucco finish that was popular on the west coast starting in the 1950s and finally all but died out in the ’80s. The technical name was exposed aggregate, but most of us knew it as marblecrete. Most marblecrete was used on commercial work; big chain stores such as Sears or malls found marblecrete durable and attractive. Marblecrete is known as rock or slop dash in Canada. The city of Vancouver BC still sees new installations of this unique finish being done today. The end result is a very durable wall that has the ultimate crack hiding abilities. The finish had unique installation procedures.

The Process:

The water resistant barrier(s) and lath are applied as normal. The cement scratch coat is applied and let to set or cure. The next step is when things change. The brown coat is now called a “bedding” coat. The bedding coat provides a base and matrix to bond and secure the exposed aggregate, generally about 1/8″ to 1/2″  in size, in place. In most cases the bedding coat is a white or light colored cement applied to a nominal 1/2″ thickness. Gray cement can be used or other pigments added to white cement. Bedding coats can be plain cement or have polymer admixtures. A pre-selected aggregate of color and size is then forced into the bedding coat. The aggregate can be thrown at the fresh bedding coat with a paddle, scoop or the use of a rock gun. The rock run is machine that will shoot the aggregate with sufficient force to embed the aggregate into the bedding coat.

The aggregate has traditionally been marble chips or small pebbles. The marble chips are the same chips used in decorative precast concrete and terrazzo flooring. Most are number 0 to 3 size chips and still available today in a wide range of colors. Some projects used control joints or reveals to create unique patterns and add more uniqueness by altering the colors of the chips selected.

The Florida Twist:

In Florida, sea shells are abundant and easy to get. They have been used as an aggregate in concrete and asphalt streets for many years. Apparently they can also be used in stucco walls. It is not marblecrete, but could be called shellcrete? The sea shells are first washed to remove all salts and contaminates and then screened to provide uniformity in sizing. Then they are applied just as the more traditional marble chips. Some designers are might consider using glass aggregates to expand the variety in color and texture. Could recycled glass aggregates be potential LEED points?

The application of the aggregate requires skill and force to insure they are sufficiently embedded into the cement. Even done correctly, much of the marble, glass or sea shell will fall to the ground. Experienced contractors will place tarps on the ground to catch the bulk of the fallen aggregate for re-use later.

Renovation of Marblecrete:

The SMA occasionally receives questions about renovation of the marblecrete. Can it be cleaned, plastered or painted are common questions. The answer is yes, yes and yes. Cleaning is best done with a mild detergent being sprayed on a pre-wetted wall and then washed off. Power washers are discouraged for cleaning marblecrete. High pressure can dislodge the exposed aggregate. After cleaning, a sealer made by an SMA manufacturer can then be applied to keep the marblecrete looking clean.

It is also possible to apply stucco finish over sound and solid marblecrete. The first step would be to clean any bond breaking material off the wall. A power washer could be used for this purpose. A skim coat of cement can be applied to level the wall out smooth. A test patch is always recommended to insure a good bond to the marblecrete. Refer to an SMA manufacturer about products best suited for skim coating. The trickiest issue is the termination of the plaster to trim accessories such as control joints or casing beads. Since the aggregate is generally proud of the finished edge, it takes a little time to feather or round the edge along the joints. Once the skim coat is complete, a traditional cement or an acrylic finish coat can be applied. It is important to insure the skim coat and finish coat are compatible.

Another option is to use fog coat over clean, unpainted marblecrete. Fog coat is a cement-based paint. Fog coat will make the marblecrete uniform in color, while avoiding blisters, bubbles and other common issues found when applying traditional paint over marblecrete. A test patch should be done to insure the aggregate will absorb the fog coat. This is the most economical fix.

It is recommended to use an SMA contractor familiar with fog coat procedures and approved SMA products.

 

ONE-COAT STUCCO

One-coat stucco was born in the 1970s during the first energy crisis. The use of one-coat versus three-coat today is primarily regional. Some areas strongly prefer three-coat while other markets predominantly are one-coat markets. Both products will work in all climates, though some believe that one-coat stucco is inferior because it is only “one-coat.” First, it should be noted that one-coat is really two coats. Three-coat is two coats of base material, one-coat is essentially the same but the basecoat is done in one coat. Hence the name “one-coat.” Both plaster systems still get a finish coat of material. Three-coat stucco has a slightly thicker base coat than one-coat. A one-coat stucco membrane is generally 3/8″ to 1/2″ in thickness, while a three coat is 3/4″ in nominal thickness. Both systems, when done correctly, serve as excellent claddings, and usage is generally dictated by preferences of historic usage. Problems arise when either system is short-cutted, cheapened or installed incorrectly.

The SMA supports both one- and three-coat stucco and urges best practices for each be followed. This means following the SMA product and installation guidelines established by the SMA, the Lath and Plaster Committee and manufacturers’ recommendations.

As noted, one-coat stucco was developed to be applied over rigid foam to provide energy savings. There are thousands of square yards of one-coat stucco over foam in California, Texas, Arizona and Nevada that have proven themselves for over thirty years of service. One-coat stucco has also proven itself in the more extreme climates of Utah and Colorado. One-coat stucco is similar to other claddings: installed correctly, it works fine, installed wrong, it can spell trouble. It is strongly recommended to use only SMA one-coat products that are installed by SMA Lath and Plaster committee contractors. All SMA one-coat stucco products are recognized and approved for “Continuous Insulation” applications to meet new energy codes.

There are a few limitations for the use of one coat stucco, so refer to your SMA manufacturer’s product report for limitations.

 

SPRING TIME EFFLORESCENCE

Spring is the time efflorescence starts to show up on projects. Most understand that efflorescence is a white salt/mineral deposit that exudes itself from cements. The problem is worse in Spring and even more noticeable on dark colored stucco. The one reason is the white bloom naturally stands out against the dark background. There is another reason the dark color is more likely to show efflorescence on a dark color.

As rain washes down the stucco exterior, the water is drawn into hairline cracks. The crack absorbs and holds the moisture. As the moisture sits in the crack, the mineral salts are absorbed into the water-laden stucco.

NOTE: the water that enters in the cement membrane is very minor. The hairline crack swells slightly and the chance of a water intrusion leak is extremely low. Past inspections have revealed the paper behind the stucco membrane barely gets wet, even after hours of continuous rain.

As the sun hits the dark wall, it heats up quickly and accelerates moisture drive to the outside. The salts are drawn out faster and, as the water evaporates quickly, the salts are deposited on the surface. It has been noted that dark colored walls tend to have more efflorescence issues than light colored walls.

PRESS RELEASES FROM OUR MEMBERS

HORN ANNOUNCES PROMOTIONS

SMA member HORN is proud to share the promotion of Eva O’Keefe and Jay Umphrey to vice president. Eva currently serves as secretary on the board of Los Angeles Society of Coatings Technology (LASCT) and supports the nonprofit, You Be the Chemist. Jay is a long-time member of LASCT where he has served as chairman of multiple committees and is a proud member of the Stucco Manufacturers Association.

PRESIDENT’S LETTER: New Executive Director

Kevin Wensel, Omega Products International

There are some big changes going on at the SMA. Our Executive Director Norma Fox informed the Board earlier this year that she would be retiring at the end of this year. Norma has been the ED of SMA for more that eighteen years. She has been a mentor, friend, and confidant to many members of the Association. Norma has been all three of those things for me, as the president of the SMA for the last two years. This is the first time I have been active in a trade association board, so she took me under her wing — helping me understand and execute the duties and responsibilities of the presidency. Generally, she was kind about it, but (as many of you probably experienced, too) she has no issue kicking you in the butt if she feels it is necessary. Though in everything she did for the Association, she did it from a place of caring. Norma genuinely cares about the Association and the members of it. We are going to miss her greatly. I wish her the best on her much deserved retirement!

After Norma gave her notice, the Board started the search for a new Executive Director. We meet a number of times to put together the requirements for the position and a plan for identifying candidates. It became clear to the Board that Mark Fowler of Mark Fowler Associates would be the ideal candidate for the ED position. Mark has a great balance of plastering, architectural, and industry trade group experience. With his plaster industry experience and connections, Mark will help the SMA become a truly national organization and authority in the plaster industry. Welcome, Mark!

 

 

MEET THE NEW SMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mark Fowler, SMA Executive Director

The new SMA Executive Director is Mark Fowler. Mark grew up in Southern California in the plastering business. His father owned Oz Fowler Plastering and was well known in Orange County for interior gypsum plaster when plaster was still king and then cement stucco in the 70’s lath and plastering thousands of tract homes.

Mark went to college, majoring in Architecture, but soon found plastering was more lucrative. Times have changed. He was also a member of the old Local #2 Plasterers Union from Los Angeles. He ran gun crews, finish crews, estimated and eventually became general manager. Mark then moved to Seattle and worked for Imasco Minerals, a Canadian stucco manufacturer. He quickly moved to the Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau (NWCB) where he was instrumental in developing the Stucco Resource Guide and many of the technical bulletins for the NWCB. Mark developed a strong relationship with architects and the building officials in the Northwest. He presented at conventions, trade shows and educational seminars, such as the first EIFS and Stucco certification programs in the United States.

He then worked as a project manager for Soltner Group Architects of Seattle. While there he managed several large multifamily projects and focused on exterior envelopes and AAMA water-testing protocols. Mark also was connected with several projects that involved water leaks, cement stucco and eventual litigation.

“Mark will be a great benefit to the Stucco Manufacturers Association. His connections and respect among the designers and architects are well known,” said Keith Soltner AIA.

Fowler spent the last eight years at the Western Wall and Ceiling Contractors Association where he handled labor negotiations, spearheaded the publication of the Plaster and Continuous Insulation Brochure and the Plaster and Drywall Assemblies Manual.

If the name sounds familiar, he has been the Editorial Director for Walls and Ceilings Magazine since 2006. With a monthly editorial page and several published articles, as well as guest speaker at various events, Mark is well known in the stucco and plaster industry.

Mark is looking forward to working with the members of the SMA to reach the strategic growth goals established in 2014 by the SMA board of directors. These goals include greater national presence and growth through education and technical excellence.

“Stucco is a unique and fantastic cladding that others can only wish they match,” said Mark Fowler. “This is why it is under attack so often and why we need to promote stucco and plaster by just telling the truth.”

PLEASE NOTE: NEW SMA OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Mark Fowler, Executive Director
Marlene Lampert, Office Manager
Stucco Manufacturers Association
5753 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd, Suite G-156
Anaheim, CA 92807
Office: 213 379 5890
Mark@stuccomfgassoc.com
Marlene@stuccomfgassoc.com

SIGN UP NOW FOR OUR NOVEMBER 18 LUNCH MEETING

NORMA (WE WILL MISS YOU)

The SMA and all the members want to wish Norma Fox a well-deserved retirement as she leaves us on November 1. She deserves a pleasant and relaxing retirement for all her years of dedicated service to our industry. Norma took the helm of the SMA in 1998 and has done a great job of managing the stability of the SMA. This included herding the directors and keeping them on a focused tracK to get things done. This is no easy task, as we all know the personalities in our business are pretty strong willed, but Norma kept the SMA alive and well. This is even more amazing when one thinks of the tough times our industry has had to endure. Her leadership kept stucco moving forward in the face of attacks, as it still remains a leader in cladding to this day. We will miss Norma’s distinct and unique personality at future SMA meetings.

A Little About Our Norma:
Norma is originally from Bayonne, New Jersey. She is a proud graduate from the Fashion Institute of Technology in the heart of Manhattan. She moved to Southern California 32 years ago from NJ and started her own Association Management Co. Her first client was the California Film Extruders and Converters Association (CFECA). This became the launching pad for an illustrious career in association work. Somehow it is not hard to believe that association management work and Norma were just kind of made for each other. She was awarded the CFECA highest honor for her efforts in growing the association. This success led to more associations wanting her personality and leadership abilities. At one point, Fox Association Management Services Inc. with a staff of 2 was running eight associations. She was also the first executive director of the Plastering Contractors Association. Norma was the first executive director of the Forensic Expert Witness Association, which started as a local group and she grew them to 9 chapters and a national association. Norma (Rubenstein) Fox was always up for a challenge and met those challenges head on with the right blend of her humor, honesty and that directness needed for the job she did so well.

Her retirement will be filled with family and doting over her two grandsons, Reilly Evan (8) and Asher Yona (3 1/2). Norma is very proud of her daughter, Dr. Lauren Fox MacMillan who is a Gereatric Psychologist and her son-in law Daniel MacMillan. Fortunately they live in southern California so Norma will be able to spend quality time with her family. All of us want to thank Norma and wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement. On to another chapter in her life.

SMA GOLF TOURNAMENT IS ANOTHER HUGE SUCCESS

The rains cleared, the sun came out and the day was perfect for the record number of golfers who showed up to play at Strawberry Farms. The third annual SMA golf event went off without a hitch and produced a record attendance. SMA Executive Director Norma Fox did a great job and was grateful for the help that Stephanie Allgood from Dryvit, Jeff Becksted of Hunter Panels, and Tina McIntyre of TXI Riverside cement provided to set things up and handle registration. Tyler Parker of BMI helped with the dinner and awards.

The food and staff at Strawberry Farms were great. Kevin Wensel, the President of SMA, started the awards program with an announcement that the November SMA meeting will be a very special meeting as it is also a retirement party for beloved SMA Executive Director, Norma Fox. Norma has served the SMA for nearly two decades and the membership wants to send her off to retirement with a party she truly deserves. Please plan to attend this meeting on November 18 and please make your reservation and prepay online. Mark Fowler, the new Executive Director, will be introduced as well.

Rui Bronze of BMI, and an SMA board member and treasurer, took over as the MC and kept the group lively. He did a great job with the auction of some fabulous raffle prizes. The prizes were donated by members and sponsors. A good portion of the proceeds went to the Wounded Worrier Foundation.

PRIZE WINNERS
The winning score for the golf tournament was a team 56.
FIRST PLACE: Brad Stevensen, Larry Smith, Able Gonzales, Albert Gonzales
SECOND PLACE: Tom Blythe, Gil Villela, Jeff Swanson, Tom Aldana
THIRD PLACE: Matt Chila, Paul Maag, Max Carreon, TJ Gillen
LONGEST DRIVE: Mike Kiefer
CLOSEST TO THE PIN: Jose Castellon and Jeff Swanson

 

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR GOLF TOURNAMENT SPONSORS!

Gold Sponsor: Omega Products International

Silver Sponsors: BMI Products Inc., Parex USA, P.W. Gillibrand Co. Inc., Riverside Cement, L’Hoist, N.A., Merlex Stucco Inc.

Bronze Sponsors: Fortifiber Building Systems Inc., Dryvit Systems Inc., Accent Building Materials, Del Mar Plastering Inc., Stockton Products, Structa Wire Corp.

Hole/Green Sponsors: Accent Building Materials, Akzonobel Performance Additives Group, BMI Products Inc., Del Mar Plastering Inc., Dryvit Systems Inc., Fortifiber Building Systems Inc., L’Hoist, N.A., Merlex Stucco Inc., Omega Products International, P.W. Gillibrand Co Inc., ParexUSA, Riverside Cement, Stockton Products, Structa Wire Corp., Horn Company, Cemex

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Horn Coatings and Building Materials

SMA welcomes new stucco supplier member Horn Coatings and Building Materials, and their representative Jay Umphrey in La Mirada. Please see the SMA Member Directory for their company/contact information.

 

Wallcare Technology Development Co. Inc.

SMA welcomes our new international member Wallcare Technology Development Co. Inc., and their representative Naomi Zhao in Nanjing, China. Please see the SMA Member Directory for their company/contact information.

FEATURE ARTICLES

Code Updates

SMA contractors will want to pay attention Section 2510.6 of the International Building Code as it may impact your projects with regard to lathing. New code language has been placed in the code with regard to installing building papers and home wraps. In particular when installed over wood based sheathing for cement stucco cladding. The following is the new language from the International Building Code:

2510.6 Water-resistive barriers.
Water-resistive barriers shall be installed as required in Section 1404.2 and, where applied over wood-based sheathing, shall include a water-resistive vapor-permeable barrier with a performance at least equivalent to two layers of Grade D paper. The individual layers shall be installed independently such that each layer provides a separate continuous plane and any flashing (installed in accordance with Section 1405.4) intended to drain to the water-resistive barrier is directed between the layers.

This new language will likely create some confusion as it changes the way most contractors have installed two-ply building paper for decades. The new language essentially is intended to move the drainage plane from between the WRB (Water–Resistive Barrier) and the cement stucco to between the two layers of WRB. In addition, the language instructs contractors to install each layer of WRB independently of each other. This is contrary to the traditional method of applying two layers WRB at the same time.

Manufacturers of asphaltic paper have produced two-ply products for decades. These two-ply products have proven to be effective and functional. The change in code language may raise concerns and confusion. The SMA committees will be addressing these issues and likely be making some proposals for consideration. For comments to the committee reviewing this policy, feel free to send your comments to the SMA office.

WRB on SOFFITS AND CEILINGS
This is another code issue popping up for stucco contractors. A change in code language led some to believe an omission of specific language, means a requirement has been set. The old Uniform Building Code specifically stated that building paper could be eliminated from ceilings or soffits that were to receive cement plaster. This practice was common as contractors routinely used lath products specially and sometimes solely designed for soffit installations. These lath products rarely had paper backing, and it was typically only a backing intended to prevent cement blowing through when using plaster pumps. The new code language moved from prescriptive to more performance-based and left out the WRB (Water-Resistive Barrier) exclusion on soffits. This has led some designers to wonder if a WRB is now required on ceilings and soffits. Generally there is no benefit to a WRB on a soffit or stucco ceiling. Most experts prefer not to have a WRB on the ceiling under stucco. WRB is used on walls to prevent water intrusion to framing members. However, on a ceiling the WRB could potentially prevent water from easily escaping or being absorbed and then diffusing through the stucco membrane. While it is not a code violation to install a WRB on the cement plaster ceiling, it is typically not recommended.

It is important to keep up with code and industry trends for cement stucco design and installations. Contact your local supplier, manufacturer or the SMA office for any further information.

FLORIDA
The state of Florida Building Commission has produced a declaratory statement on cement stucco, in particular on the application of cement basecoats. The statement reads:

“Stucco applied per ASTM C 926 as permitted under the Exception to Section 703.6.4 , compliance with the minimum application intervals between stucco coats is not required.”

This means the requirement for a 48 hours cure time period between the scratch and brown coats may be shortened as per allowed by ASTM C 926. ASTM C 926 states that the scratch coat shall become sufficiently rigid prior to applying the brown coat. This has been referred to this as the “double-back” method. Ironically, the double-back method was part of the Uniform Building Code, and similar to the WRB on soffits issue. The code language was dropped, which led some to believe it is no longer valid or allowed. The state of Florida has clarified the language is still valid. The SMA acknowledges the efforts by the Florida Lath and Plaster Bureau (www.flapb.com) for spearheading this campaign to better the industry. The SMA also supports the statement by the Florida Commission.

Stucco and Porosity

Stucco is a blend of Portland cement, lime and aggregates, none of which is negatively impacted by the presence of water. In fact, the mix that makes Portland cement plaster will strengthen over time when exposed to water. The benefits of cement stucco make it a favored cladding for building exteriors because it is highly water resistant, noncombustible, pest resistant, durable, low maintenance and capable to be seamless even in radius surfaces.

One myth that continually pops up is that cement stucco cladding is porous.

POROUS: Defined as a material having small holes that allow air or liquid to pass through.

AIR: The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) under section C402.4.1.2.2 Assemblies, item number 2, lists a Portland cement/sand parge, stucco or gypsum plaster having a minimum thickness of 1/2 inch (12mm) as an air barrier assembly compliant to the IECC. Cement plaster is therefore not porous to air per the code.

WATER: While cement plaster will absorb water, the water will not pass through properly mixed and applied cement plaster. Independent third party studies confirm this fact:

• FEDERAL TESTING LABS (1996): Test Report No. 96-3484. This independent test used mixes compliant to ASTM C 926. Application was 3/4 inch thick basecoat (scratch and brown) with no finish coat applied. All panels were 3/4 inch thick cement and moist cured for 24 hours. Water testing was done 29 days after cement application, simulating a moderate wind-driven rain per ASTM E514. The water volume was 112 gallons per hour and sprayed continuously for two hours at the same location on the panels. The back of the plaster cement was exposed and no panel exhibited any sign of water seepage during or after the test. Similar tests were conducted in the 1970s in southern California with similar results. The Federal Lab test was sponsored by the Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau, and the full report is available by contacting the SMA or NWCB.
• NCMA RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT LABORATORY (2007) Project No. 05-466B. The test was to determine water resistance of cement plaster (stucco) over masonry units. Thirteen walls were constructed with various cement thicknesses over standard Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) One wall had no stucco applied to the CMU and was a control wall. Mixes were all ASTM C 926 compliant and water testing was done per ASTM E 514. The walls with skim coats of 1/8, 1/4 and 1/2 inch cement plaster resisted water penetration for up to four hours. The control wall, no stucco applied, leaked in 30 minutes.
• Hurricane. The NCMA then decided to test at levels representing a hurricane condition. The wind was increased to 155 and 180 mph. The results concluded that all cement plaster resisted water penetration at low to moderate wind pressures. The 1/8 inch skim coat kept water out at lower wind speeds. The 1/2 inch cement coatings resisted water entry even at 155 mph, and only minimal water leakage at 180 mph after 24 hours of continual water spray. The full report is available from the Florida Lath and Plaster Bureau or the SMA.

Both tests for water and the code statement on air verify that properly mixed and applied cement plaster (stucco) is not porous.

PRESS RELEASES FROM OUR MEMBERS

Plastic Components receives important approval on Ultra-Lath Plus®

Plastic Components Ultra-Lath Plus® HDPE Lath has a service history of over 16 years. Ultra-Lath® has gained a following in coastal climates and other extreme environments where rusting of the stucco reinforcing can be a concern. Available in sheets or rolls, new Ultra-Lath Plus® is now recognized as an alternative to metal reinforcement for stucco under the IBC and IRC. In addition to rust resistance, Ultra-Lath Plus® offers several application and performance benefits:

• Self-furred 1/4” for positive keying of the stucco
• Fully resistant to the harsh chemicals found in cement-based products
• Does not rely on alkali resistant coatings for performance
• Cuts easy for faster installed costs
• Lightweight for easy transport to the jobsite

One limitation of plastic lath has been concerns over fire resistance. Plastic Components has passed the rigorous NFPA 285 multi-story fire test. Passing this fire test allows plastic lath by Plastic Components to go beyond basic Type V construction. Master Wall Inc.® recognizes the use of Ultra-Lath Plus® as an approved alternative for vertical applications of our Cemplaster Fiberstucco System 3/4” and above and will recognize specific alternative installations on a case-by-case basis. This approval is subject to the limitations in Plastic Components’ code report, local jurisdictional building authority acceptance and designer/owner acceptance.

Plastic Components products are available at most Master Wall® distributor locations. To learn more visit www.plasticcomponents.com

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER: Committees – Get Involved

Kevin Wensel, Omega Products International

During the last couple years, the SMA Board has made many changes to the association in order to transform it into a truly national organization and be the go-to authority for the plaster industry. One of the most important changes was the creation of committees. There are a number of committees:

Three Coat: Covers all aspects of three coat plaster systems. Chairman: Nick Brown
One Coat: Covers all aspects of one coat plaster systems: Chairman: Mike Griffin.
Accessories: Covers plaster-related accessories, such as lath and weep screed. Chairman: Jeff Sacks and Bob Blaswich.

There are also SMA administrative committees on education, marketing, membership, and the golf tournament. These committees are intended to be the engines that move the SMA and industry forward. The committees should be a place for all members of the plaster industry (manufacturers, suppliers, applicators, design professionals, etc.) to discuss issues that are facing the industry and develop plans to make the industry stronger. Everyone benefits when the industry is doing well.

Unfortunately, the committees have not gotten off to a great start. The participation has been weak. These committees are only as good as the people in them. Without adequate participation they will never reach their full potential. I strongly encourage you to regularly participate and bring your ideas to the group. If you are not the proper person, please delegate the responsibility to the correct person within your organization. There is a great opportunity to work together to achieve great things. Please contact me, Norma Fox, or the chairman of the committees to get involved.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT: Changing of the Guard

Norma S. Fox, SMA Executive Director

Well folks, we all knew there would be a time when I would retire from SMA… well it is that time. At the last board meeting I sat down with the board and explained why I am doing this and gave them a plan on how to find my replacement. The board of directors requested I initiate the plan, and I have already almost completed interviewing each member personally about how they see this position and what they would be looking for in a new Executive Director. This process will take about a year to complete from beginning to end. The board has asked me to be involved in this process until I complete training the new person. This person will not be an employee but rather come from an association management company (independent contractor). There are many of these firms with non-profit association management skills. A Request for Proposal will be mailed to these firms. A committee will be selected from the board to review the applications of those that respond. From this initial go round, three or four will be selected to come in and be interviewed by the full board. I will always be available if the board should need my services.

Many of you may not be familiar with what an association management company is so here goes. These are firms that manage nonprofit trade and professional associations for a fee. They are extremely knowledgeable in all the rules and regulations that “must” be followed and will file all the correct forms to state and national government agencies. In other words in order for this association to grow and go to the next level, that association must be run efficiently and effectively. SMA is getting ready to go to the next level.

It is hard to believe it has been 21 years that I have been affiliated with SMA. They have been wonderful years and I am so proud to see SMA start to grow and prosper. We are a lot different now than when I began. SMA has always been a national association, but it was operating as a regional association. We have worked hard and the board sees the vision of SMA now. With the addition of one-coat and lath and plaster folks, we have been able to form a committee-based association. The board is no longer doing all the business of the entire association — now they are overseeing each committee. Each committee chair gives their report at each board meeting. Any item involving money goes before the board for approval. All motions made and approved by the committee are reviewed and approved or not. Also any project I am working on is reported on at the board meeting, and the board provides direction, etc., to me.

Yes, I will miss you all. Any time any of you wish to visit, have a drink or lunch just call me or email me. Come see what the seniors are doing with themselves at Laguna Woods. Since I have worked my whole life, now is the time, while I can, to enjoy retirement and spend time with my two grandchildren. Two boys ages 3 and 7. They make me smile.

Hope to see you all at the May 20th lunch meeting at Antonello’s. Be sure to make your reservation on line.

SIGN UP NOW FOR OUR MAY 20 LUNCH MEETING

 

SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR 3RD ANNUAL SMA GOLF TOURNAMENT: September 17, 2015

SMA’s 3rd Annual Golf Tournament — coming September 17 — is a fun day of golf, camaraderie, food, fun and prizes! Don’t miss your opportunity to sponsor the SMA event and get your company name in front of hundreds … click the image below and sign up for your sponsorship by June 30 to ensure maximum coverage for your company name.

 

 

 

FEATURE ARTICLES

SILOS: Not Just for Grain Anymore

Jerry L. Pozo – BMI Products

Silo. When I hear the term, my mind conjures up our great American Midwest or California’s Central Valley.

Rustic silos…those towering structures alongside a barn, on some back road through the American farmlands. They were influenced by grain storage pits of the “old world” and corn cellars of Native American. They were built of wood, fieldstone, tile, and brick, concrete and steel.

Today, silo has become a popular and common sight on urban jobsites, housing premixed and engineered products for the construction industry.

Europeans have used silos for dry construction products for over four decades. They dislike cluttered jobsites of pallets, sacks, bags, cartons, banding, jugs, and a huge pile of sand. There are more than 150,000 servicing the market from Sweden to Italy, and over 50,000 silos in Germany alone. The U.S. marketplace is just now recognizing and embracing this significant delivery system.

Since BMI’s entrance onto the U.S. Chicago scene in 1988, and the Milpitas, CA, West Coast market in 1996, many projects have gained acceptance from this method of delivery. Of course, standard 90 lb bags or 2,500 lb super sacks are also available.

BMI plaster, mortar and stucco are factory-made blends of sands and binders. Our automated batch system controls the mixing process of our dry materials to ensure the consistency of our products. The final product is tested in our in-house laboratory for quality assurance and is then transported as a dry, premixed product to the construction sites. Testing is done by an independent laboratory to confirm our own test results.

Bulk dry material like BMI 690 Premixed and Engineered Plaster is held in a 27′ silo on an 8′ x 8′ pad. A continuous mixer, electrical and water source are hooked up, and with a control switch we can begin mixing the product, and pumping to the walls and ceilings.

Obviously, the most significant factor of premixed and engineered products is quality control/assurance from start to finish. Also, it lessens the liability of the contractor from heavy lifting, bending, shoveling, and mixing errors. And finally it leaves jobsites clean, dry and uncluttered.

Sand is another issue. Many quarries are running dangerously low on quality sand, so suppliers are substituting river sand and pulverized rock. Much of this low quality material leads to excessive cracking.

One plaster expert has noted that with BMI products, many formulations of sand are possible. So different formulations for different applications are possible. Our sand is clean and well-graded, without those things that lead to cement/sand reactions.

Many of our plastering subcontractors report that once they use the silo delivery system, they will never go back to sand piles and bag materials again.

Our subcontractors also report: increases in worker productivity, less injury, reduced material handling, safer material storage and no damage due to weather conditions.

By eliminating field mixing, sand piles, job debris, and uncontrolled water, this process is a real advance for the construction industry and fits nicely into LEED requirements to prevent jobsite mess, and prevent pollutants from entering the storm drain conveyance system.

Today, construction industry professionals feel that premixed products and silo delivery systems will be a “big part” of the Future of Stucco, and other product applications.

Jerry L. Pozo, CSI, CDT, BS has over 35 years’ experience in the plastering industry. His background includes manufacturing, distribution, education, technical, specification review and consulting. He resides in the Foothills of the Sierras and covers the Pacific West Coast for BMI Products of Northern CA. Contact jlpozo@bmi-products.com.

 

Building Materials Manufacturer Making Big Jump in Space

Ben van der Meer, Sacramento Business Journal – February 27, 2015

A decade ago, a building materials manufacturer in Rancho Cordova looked into moving to a bigger space, with housing construction still on the rise.

Though he said Omega Products International would’ve survived if it had done so just before the severe downturn, company vice president and general manager Todd Martin said it’s fortunate the company didn’t make the move.

Instead, Omega is seeing an upturn again and making plans to move, into a larger industrial space the company bought in Sacramento.

“It’s been a rough six years, but the last two have been pretty good,” Martin said. “And we think we’ll see really good growth in the next four to five years.”

By July, Omega wants to be up and running at 8111 Fruitridge Road, which the company bought in January for $2.325 million, according to CoStar. Martin said the company is going from 15,000 square feet on about an acre in Rancho Cordova to 50,000 square feet on 5.5 acres.

“This enables us to modernize our production lines and incorporate some automation,” he said. Omega builds stucco, tile, grout and other essential pieces of new home construction, and works with most major homebuilders in the region, Martin said.

The new site on Fruitridge also will gain an acrylic stucco production line, moved from Omega’s Las Vegas factory. Being in Sacramento is better for access to raw materials and lessens rising freight costs, Martin said.

In the short term, Omega plans to add five employees to an existing crew of 25, and another five to 10 more in the next three to five years, he said.

“Now we see what’s on the horizon, and we want to get ahead of it,” he said. John Fondale of Newmark Cornish & Carey worked on the sale on behalf of both the buyer and the seller.

For the market, it’s a good sign when companies tied to homebuilding are moving back in and looking for bigger space, he said.

“Those that weathered the storm and have money can take advantage of pricing,” he said. “Those are great signs, when we’re getting manufacturing jobs here again.”

Ben van der Meer covers real estate, development, construction, transportation and the business of sports for the Sacramento Business Journal.

 

Construction Growth Pushing Rancho Cordova Company To Look For Larger Warehouse

Ron Jones, CBS Sacramento – March 2, 2015

Construction across the nation is making a recovery after years of recession cost jobs and company hours. Back in 2008, a lot of construction companies were really hurting because of the economy. But Omega Products International in Rancho Cordova didn’t give up.

“The construction industry is alive and well again,” Dan Longstreet said.

He says construction material moving on pallets are bringing in huge profits. “We’re sending material into Oregon, Washington, Idaho,” he said.

The small company sells commercial and residential stucco, tile, and stone products to contractors across the country.
A recent report by the Associated Press found construction projects increasing nationwide, with hot markets in North Dakota, Utah, Houston and Miami. It also says some contractors are offering signing bonuses of $5,000 to $10,000 for skilled workers.

Longstreet says things are great now, but the 2008 economic crisis had them troubled. With fewer customers, things looked bleak. But now the company is getting so much business, it’s moving out of a 15,000-square-foot warehouse in Rancho Cordova and into a 50,000-square-foot facility in South Sacramento. The sales manager anticipates even better days ahead.

“We’re happy to bring in more jobs from Sacramento into our location. We love Sacramento — this is where we’ve made a lot of our growth happen,” he said.

The new facility will be open in about four months, adding 15 more jobs.

Ron Jones began his television career in 1988 while working as an officer for the Oakland Police Department. Not only did he patrol the streets of Oakland as an officer but he was featured in cable television commercials related to crime prevention. He was later given the opportunity to write, produce, and host numerous crime prevention and public affairs shows for the City of Oakland called “Bay Area Crime Watch” and “OPD on TV”. Those shows featured wanted people in Northern California and crime prevention tips. In 2004, Ron joined CBS13, where he is currently the weekend anchor. Contact Ron at rjones@kovr.com.

 

Construction Enforcement Coalition Enforcement Update: Department of Insurance Investigators Efforts Produce an Arrest for Workers’ Comp Fraud Estimated at over $11M

David Murillo, Executive Director of CALPASC

The Construction Enforcement Coalition commends the Department of Insurance for actively pursuing an investigation that led to the arrest of two Southern California garment CEOs and a CPA accused of workers’ compensation fraud in excess of $11M in losses. The accused allegedly conspired to under report $78.5M in payroll to multiple insurers including State Fund.

Though this bust was not in the construction industry, it nonetheless is a commendable example of the Department of Insurance keeping battling the underground economy at the forefront.

For the full story, please click here.

David Murillo, Executive Director of CALPASC. Phone: 916.704.2638. Email: dmurillo@calpasc.org.

 

New “Quickie” NLRB Election Regulations on Union Representation Go Into Effect April 14, 2015

Hill Farrer – Employment Updates – April2015

On March 31, 2015, President Obama vetoed a congressional resolution which sought to overturn new National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) rules, calling for expedited elections as to whether an employer’s employees will be represented by a labor union. Congress had criticized the new NLRB rules as creating “ambush” elections which do not give the employer sufficient time to communicate its message and educate employees about the disadvantages of union representation.

The new NLRB election rules will now go into effect on April 14, 2015. The new rules will shorten the time between the filing of an election petition by a union seeking to represent an employer’s employees and the election date. Under the current rules, employers normally had approximately 40 days between the filing of an election petition and the election. Under the new rules employers will have only 14 to 21 days between the filing of the election petition and the election. This is very little time for an employer to turn around employees who have been persuaded to support a union.

The new rules also require the employer to provide the NLRB with voters’ personal contact information within two days of notification of petition, and the employer must file a complete statement of position on issues affecting the election within seven days of filing of the petition. Litigation of voter/employee eligibility issues will be deferred until after the election. The employer will not have an NLRB determination of who is or is not a supervisor until after election. This lack of NLRB guidance before the election campaign may lead to unfair labor practices during campaign, because an employer is responsible for the acts of its supervisors.

Employers should respond to the new NLRB rules by making an assessment of their employees’ susceptibility to unionization and educating employees about the disadvantages of unionization before a union begins an organizing campaign.

Your labor counsel at Hill Farrer can provide guidance on how to avoid unionization prior to a petition, and how to effectively respond to the shortened campaign period prior to NLRB elections.

Hill, Farrer & Burrill LLP. 85+ Years of Advice and Solutions – Business Litigation & Transactions. http://hillfarrer.com/.

 

Construction Enforcement Coalition Breaking News: Little Hoover Commission Releases Report on Underground Economy

David Murillo, Executive Director of CALPASC

The Little Hoover Commission has released its anticipated report on the Underground Economy.

The report entitled “Level the Playing Field: Put California’s Underground Economy Out of Business,” makes 15 recommendations to give competitive advantage to compliant businesses:

• Accountability. The Governor should designate a limited-term leader with authority to coordinate state efforts and eliminate barriers preventing a successful fight.
• Enforcement. The Commission calls for improved enforcement efforts to reduce the scale of the underground economy which has grown and thrived.
• Education. The state should develop new consumer education and outreach programs to reduce demand for underground economy goods and services. It also should better educate public officials on the harm caused by the underground economy and their role in curtailing it.

To see a copy of the full report, click here.

For an executive summary, click here.

For a press release, click here.

CALPASC is in the process of organizing a Coalition meeting in Sacramento to review the report and recommendations. Stay tuned for meeting details.

David Murillo, Executive Director of CALPASC. Please contact Bruce Wick with any questions at 909.793.9932 or email bwick@calpasc.org.

 

 

PRESS RELEASES FROM OUR MEMBERS

Sika Continues Its Fast Global Expansion in Mortars — Acquisition of U.S. Producer BMI

Sika has agreed to acquire mortar producer BMI Products of Northern California Inc., a U.S.-based company active in production and sales of a full range of mortar products and systems for the construction industry. The acquisition will accelerate Sika’s global expansion in the fast growing mortar business with an extended new supply chain in the Western U.S. The BMI plant brings Sika’s mortar footprint to 76 factories worldwide.

BMI Products of Northern California provides an excellent production platform and has developed a comprehensive range of mortar products and systems for the construction industry. The company is located in the city of Milpitas, California (San Francisco Bay Area) and, together with Sika’s Santa Fe Springs production facility near Los Angeles, provides strong access to the large and fast-growing California construction market.

The acquisition of BMI perfectly complements Sika’s growth strategy in North America and greatly strengthens its supply chain for mortar products sold throughout the Western United States. It also provides Sika with a known brand of specialty products, and an established customer base in the large California market.

The acquisition represents a further step in the expansion of Sika’s mortar business. With 31% growth in 2014, mortar is Sika’s strongest growing product area as well as one of the key elements of the Strategy 2018.

Christoph Ganz, Head of region North America: “This acquisition is a further acceleration of the implementation of our global mortar strategy. It provides us with a solid production platform to further expand the mortars business in the Western US. We are proud to welcome the new employees into the Sika team and we are excited about growing our business together.”

Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing and protecting in the building sector and the motor vehicle industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 90 countries around the world and manufactures in over 160 factories. Its approximately 17,000 employees generated annual sales of CHF 5.6 billion in 2014.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Norma S. Fox, SMA Executive Director

It has been a very good year for SMA. Since we changed to a committee-based association, things are rock’n and rollin’. Ground work has been put in place for new projects and technical papers for us to complete next year. The three coat and the one coat committees have established their guidelines and are hard at work.

For those who participated in our second annual golf tournament … it was a “huge” success. The intense heat broke the day before, and all the players and the rest of us had a big sigh of relief. Our winners were: First Place: Louie Corpolongo, Erik Shimp, Jonathann Shimp and Jared Shimp; Second Place: Brad Stevenson, Don Gilbart, Abel Gonzales and Albert Gonzales; Third Place: Jose Castellon, Walt Niestemski, George Hillman, Dave Ortiz. Closest to the Pin: Steve Heaton and Keith Johnson, Longest Drive Jared Miller, Putting Contest Tony Mastrangelo. Congratulations to all the winners.

I would like to thank all the sponsors and all the member companies that contributed outstanding raffle items. A large portion of the proceeds will go to Wounded Warriors. This will be the fourth year in a row we have contributed to Wounded Warriors. Thank you to everyone who participated and to our volunteers who made the day successful. Let’s do it again in 2015. Put this date on your calendar — September 17, 2015, at Strawberry Farms in Irvine, CA. We will have our membership lunch meeting the day before, so those of you from out of town can attend both in one trip. We do try and accommodate all.

Our quarterly membership meetings have been extremely well attended this year. In fact, we have been sold out for the last three. This is due in part to the excellent work of Gary Alexander in putting together the programs for these meetings. Thank you all for attending and giving us excellent feedback after each lunch meeting. The parking lot at Antonello’s is an excellent place to get that feedback. Again, thank you.

Please remember we have Christopher Thornberg, Ph.D., economist from Beacon Economics speaking again this year. I believe this is his 9th year doing this for us. He is always right on and always entertaining. Don’t forget to register for this lunch meeting ASAP.

Hope you all have a great Thanksgiving and outstanding Holidays … whichever one you celebrate. May 2015 bring you health, happiness and prosperity.

 

SAVE THIS DATE FOR NEXT YEAR: SEPTEMBER 17, 2015

The SMA’s 3rd Annual Golf Tournament is already scheduled — mark your calendars for September 17, 2015. Don’t miss the camaraderie, don’t miss the fun!

 

SIGN UP RIGHT NOW: DON’T MISS OUR ANNUAL LOOK AT THE ECONOMY

Learn from our featured speaker, the respected economist Christopher Thornberg, Ph.D. – Join us on November 6 for our annual economic outlook.

 

 

 

FEATURE ARTICLES

Not All Bitumen Flashings Are Appropriate for All Walls

Fortifiber Technical Bulletin – June 2014
In the last ten years, self-adhesive flashings (SAFs) have become the predominant flexible flashing product for windows. Their ease of installation and self-sealing characteristics make them popular in all regions of the country. Rubberized asphalt (RA also known as bitumen) is the most widely used SAF product because of its lower cost. Much has been written about sealant compatibility and installation of RA products (see www.fortifiber.com), but builders are now finding that RA products may not be suitable for all climates.

Product performance, from initial adhesion to long-term softening, can vary depending on ambient temperature and building envelope design. Some manufacturers recommend against using RA flashings in high heat conditions while others are silent on the issue. Fortifiber provides a range of products and encourages product based on the design considerations of the structure.

The temperature of the wall can depend on numerous factors, including (but certainly not limited to) the following:

• The climate and sun exposure of the building elevations (southern, northern, etc.)
• The sheathing material (OSB, gypsum-based, etc.)
• The color and type of exterior cladding (fiber cement siding, wood siding, shingles, stucco, etc.)
• The installation techniques (fastener torque/pressure, sealing of siding joints, etc.)

It’s not uncommon for south-facing walls in hot climates to generate internal temperatures which are beyond the service temperature of many rubberized asphalt products. Fortifiber publishes ‘application’ and ‘service’ temperature ranges for its rubberized asphalt and butyl flashing products. The application range shows the suitable temperature range for initial adhesion of the product (and sometimes a primer may be necessary) while the service range shows the suitable temperature range for the proper long-term performance of the product in a wall system.

Which Flashing Is Right for My Project?
You can generally count on a higher price for a flashing product with a broader temperature range, but extreme temperature climates may demand a more robust product. Mechanically attached flashings such as Moistop neXT and Moistop PF can provide an economical alternative to the more expensive self-adhesive flashings with comparable performance and no temperature concerns.

Visit www.fortifiber.com or call 1.800.773.4777 for information on Fortifiber’s full line of self-adhesive and mechanically attached flashing products and accessories.

 

Old School Tools for New School Learning

Children Are Born to Build
ConstructionKids introduces new builders to a broad range of materials and tools. We study the natural and man-made world around us, while learning to work individually as well as part of a team. Our goal is to share the joy of building, revising, and repairing.

Real Tools for Small Hands
Our kids work on individual and group projects with real tools and materials that are scaled and selected for small hands. Creativity and problem solving are fostered. If your child can imagine it, we’ll help him/her build it—safely and with the guidance of experienced grown-up hands.

Try a Program
Learn about our after school programs here. We also offer special programs for school field trips, Girl and Boy Scout troops, toddlers, homeschool groups, as well as birthday parties. Contact us, if you’re interested.

About ConstructionKids
Founded in 2009 by Deb Winsor, ConstructionKids developed on the premise that children are curious, capable, and funny. In May of that year, Deb was asked to “build an igloo” with a pre-school class of 4-year-olds in Brooklyn. Following the project’s success, ConstructionKids began to grow, and expanded into a full-blown professional workshop where children are taught how to use tools and learn how to build – among other things – go-carts, buildings, mazes, bridges, and musical instruments. Once housed in Deb’s playroom, ConstructionKids now offers programs in three New York City locations. Its flagship location at BLDG92 in the Brooklyn Navy Yard boasts some 2,700 square feet of workshop space for its students. Contact ConstructionKids to learn more.

 

Best Practices for Selection and Installation of Expanded Metal Lath Products

ClarkDietrich™ Building Systems, White Paper – January 2014

SPECIFYING THE APPROPRIATE METAL LATH PRODUCT for the application and installing it properly has a dramatic impact on the long-term stability of a building’s exterior cladding. Fortunately, there are various building codes and industry standards that are excellent guides to best practices for product specification and installation. The purpose of this article is to take a closer look at the aforementioned codes and standards and their recommendations for selecting and installing the best-quality expanded metal lath products for specific applications—in addition to highlighting common installation errors and their consequences. As such, we hope to provide project teams with a resource that will help them produce more stable, long-lasting exterior wall assemblies.

Introduction
For more than 50 years, expanded diamond-mesh metal lath has been regarded as an integral component of stucco building exteriors, which consist of cement or gypsum plaster applied over wood or gypsum sheathing. At first glance, it appears to be a fairly simple material, and very few changes have been made to its manufacturing process over the years. However, the expanded metal lath product specified and the way it is installed has a huge impact on the long-term stability of the plaster it supports.

Specifying Quality Products
Like all other building components, selecting and specifying the right product greatly reduces the potential for job failures. With such high stakes involved, it is important to ensure that the specified product has first been examined and tested by an accredited third-party certifying body to verify its compliance with the International Building Code (IBC), the International Residential Code (IRC) and the industry standards they reference. The industry standards most widely used by the IBC and IRC to gauge the product performance needed for code compliance are: ASTM C847, Standard Specification for Metal Lath; and ASTM C1063, Standard Specification for Installation of Lathing and Furring to Receive Interior and Exterior Portland Cement-Based Plaster. Appropriately, the measure of an expanded metal lath product’s quality begins during the manufacturing process.

Manufacturing to ASTM Specifications
In general, the manufacturing of expanded metal lath begins when a small (< 12 inches) G-60 galvanized steel coil (meeting ASTM A653) is gradually uncoiled and fed into the cutting rollers of a large rotary expanding machine. The cutting rollers apply a force of more than 100,000 pounds (445 kN) to slice through the sheets, creating the diamond configuration. Stretcher arms on the machine attach to the coil and expand the sheet into compacted diamond-pattern sheets, 27 inches (696 mm) in width. The machine will have a sheet end cutter that can be set to various lengths—typically, 97 inches (2,464 mm) is the minimum length for packaging as a standard sheet, per ASTM C847-10 requirements. Manufacturers are required to maintain cutting rollers to ensure clean cuts and prevent formation of unexpanded diamonds or the fracturing of diamonds in configuration (see photo left).

Self-furring laths require an additional step in the manufacturing process: the machine embosses the sheet with either dimples or V-grooves, providing 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) of furring, measured from the back of the dimple or groove to the face of the lath strands. The furring tools are monitored by the manufacturer, as worn tools can cause a sheet’s furring to fall below the 1/4-inch length required by ASTM C1063. If the tools are found to produce furring below the required length, they are replaced.

Alternate Metal Plaster Bases
One commonly used expanded metal lath material is welded wire, produced to ASTM C933, Standard Specification for Welded Wire Lath. This welded wire lath can be manufactured self-furred, thereby providing full embedment of the plaster scratch coat, which is ideal for expansive wall panels where the stucco will be machine applied, or sprayed. Another lesser wire material is woven wire, more commonly known as “chicken wire,” which is produced to ASTM C1032, Standard Specification for Woven Wire Plaster Base. This product is typically used on single-story mass-production housing and usually has to be furred to the substrate.

Building Code Requirements
The IBC and IRC call upon ASTM C847 to define the expanded metal lath product’s physical properties required for code compliance. This standard lists minimum lengths, widths, lath thicknesses and weights for products, as well as allowable tolerances. In order to meet these criteria, metal lath manufacturers have to pay close attention to a variety of details in their product design, including: the base thickness of the galvanized steel coil, cutter configurations and the pull force applied to the galvanized steel coil while being stretched. ASTM C847 calls for metal lath to be manufactured from cold-rolled carbon steel sheets, per ASTM A653, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the Hot-Dip Process. In addition, ASTM A653 requires hot-dipped galvanized lath to have a coating of at least G-60, signifying a zinc content of 0.6 ounces/square feet (183 grams/square meter).

While the minimum galvanized coating required by ASTM C847 is G-60, it is possible to use other materials to protect metal lath from corrosion. One example of this is increasing the galvanization to G-90—where zinc content rises to 0.9 ounces/ square feet (274 grams/square meter)—or using pure zinc alloy (99 percent pure zinc) protective coating.

Expanded Metal Lath Accessories
The accessory material selected for a particular expanded metal lath application depends largely on the climate of the building’s location, along with the type of plaster/stucco or stone application used to form the façade. For instance, the higher humidity and salty air of coastal environments often demands a higher zinc alloy, or possibly PVC, for exterior skin components. However, in drier climates, galvanized accessories are more acceptable. Specifiers should note though, there may be trade-offs with certain materials. For example, while zinc alloy offers greater corrosion resistance, the material is considerably softer than galvanized steel. And, while PVC accessories are non-corrosive, they may not fit the building owner’s aesthetic preferences. Another important thing to remember is that grouping incompatible materials in the final specification of lath, fasteners and accessories can increase the possibility of galvanic corrosion (i.e., electrolysis) or inconsistent corrosion protection, which threatens the stability of the building’s cladding.

The specifier and installer should be aware that physical characteristics of lath products being installed fully comply with ASTM C847-10 requirements. Examples of these “below-code” characteristics are lath weight, length, width and low galvanization (i.e., G-40). Products with the markings of “utility” or “nominal,” should be avoided for use in inspected facilities or code-compliant construction. The negative effects of lesser galvanizing and lath weight are quite apparent—below-minimum zinc coatings invite corrosion, while lower-than-minimum lath weights can compromise the building exterior’s resistance to structural and wind loads. However, the effect of shorter lath lengths may not appear so obvious at first glance. Lath sheets are traditionally manufactured in 97-inch (2,464 mm) lengths to accommodate framing member spacing of 16 or 24 inches (406 or 610 mm) on-center, with an extra 1-inch (25 mm) end lap stipulated by ASTM C1063, Table 3. Simply put, use of 96-inch (2,438 mm) long sheet lath over standard framing member spacing will not provide the specified lath overlap, which, as a result, can cause cracking through the stucco finish.

Proper Installation Is Key
Proper lath installation is of equal importance to the longevity of plaster-based building exteriors. Below are some of the most common lath-related installation errors and how they can be avoided.

Improper Plywood Sheathing Installation
According to the American Plywood Association, plywood sheathing should be installed with a minimal gap of 1/8 inch between sheets to accommodate any expansion that may occur in the wood as a result of moisture intrusion. It is important to note that in any case where large amounts of moisture enter the exterior wall assembly, the plywood may delaminate or swell significantly, ultimately causing the stucco cladding to deteriorate. The best protection against these liabilities is an effective moisture management strategy within the exterior wall assembly, consisting of high-performance insulation, air barriers and vapor retarders or barriers.

Improper Installation of Water-Resistive Barriers
Chapter 25 of the IBC—“Gypsum Board and Plaster,” Section 2510.6-Water-resistive Barriers”—states that exterior wall assemblies shall include two independent layers equivalent to Grade D paper that serve as water-resistive barriers. The only exception is the use of 60-minute Grade paper and a non-water-absorbing layer drainage plane, or rain screen.

Improper Metal Lath Installation
Some of the more severe metal lath installation errors involve improper lapping attachment to the framing members, improper installation of paper-backed lath, incorrect fastening of the adjoining sheets at the laps and the improper orientation of the lath sheets. A well-defined installation primer for laths with or without paper can be found in ASTM C1063, or the Expanded Metal Lath Association’s Guide Specifications for Metal Lathing and Furring (EMLA 920-09) and can guide the contractor toward a successful installation.

Improper Fastening of Metal Lath
Improper fastening of metal lath is the most common installation error and is often a result of the lath being randomly stapled or nailed to the sheathing instead of the structural member. ASTM C1063 requires lath fastening at minimal intervals of 7 inches on-center. Lath accessories’ flanges must directly touch the lath, with no weather barrier sandwiched in-between.

Improper Installation of, or an Inadequate Number of, Expansion & Control Joints
ASTM C1063, Annex A1.2, defines control joints as one-piece joints used to provide crack control for stucco shrinkage, drying and thermal expansion. The same standard describes expansion joints as two-piece joints used to accommodate some degree of movement in the stucco membrane caused by movement in the building or its components. Fastening the expansion joint flanges to sheathing, or leaving the lath un-cut behind the joint, negates the lath’s effectiveness. Just like all accessories, the expansion joints must be wire-tied to lath edges or, in some applications, attached to supports at spacing that ensures stability. On large, vertical surfaces, it is wise to make vertical joints continuous and cut horizontal joints to abut the verticals, with proper care taken to prevent the horizontal joints from impeding the vertical joints’ movement.

Improper Installation of Flashing or Sealants at Potential Points of Water Entry
Any poorly installed or omitted flashing in areas where water can enter the exterior wall assembly can easily cause the cladding, sheathing and wood framing members to deteriorate. Mold growth may also result from extended moisture exposure, causing indoor air quality problems inside the building. Though flashing is generally not the responsibility of the lath contractor, lath contractors are advised to notify the general contractor if they see improperly installed flashing or areas where flashing was left uninstalled.

Conclusion
In order to provide customers with high-performance, long-lasting building exteriors and minimize liabilities, it is imperative for building and design professionals to be well informed of all applicable building codes and ASTM standards. Adherence to the guidelines covered in this paper will produce healthier, more stable and sustainable buildings and reduce callbacks to a minimum.

About ClarkDietrich™ Building Systems
ClarkDietrich™ Building Systems is the leading manufacturer of a full-line of drywall studs and accessories, structural studs and joists, metal lath and accessories, shaft wall studs and track, interior finishing products, and connectors and accessories for commercial and residential construction. Quality manufacturing, a full-line offering, national distribution, engineering services and responsive customer service position ClarkDietrich Building Systems as the largest and fastest growing manufacturer of cold-formed steel framing in North America. Clarkwestern Dietrich Building Systems LLC is a 75/25 joint venture with Marubeni-Itochu Steel America Inc. (MISA) and Worthington Industries, Inc. For more information, visit www.clarkdietrich.com. Vinyl Corp™ is a wholly owned subsidiary of ClarkDietrich Building Systems™, dedicated to extruding the finest quality PVC components for the wet-wall and drywall trades, including stucco & plaster, EIFS/DEFS and drywall. For more information, visit www.vinylcorp.com.

 

Cost Containment, Talent Acquisition Top Benefit Challenges

Executive Perspectives – August 2014
A recent survey by Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. reveals that employers continue to see rising benefit costs in 2014. In excess of 1,800 U.S.-based organizations participated in the survey spanning a wide range of industries, geographic regions, and employer sizes and types. The majority of participants (61 percent) have more than 100 full-time employees and 25 percent of participants employ 500 or more full-time employees.

The two biggest challenges identified by these participants are the need to control benefit costs while attracting and retaining a competitive workforce. The survey, conducted by Gallagher’s Employee Benefit Consulting and Brokerage operation, examines how organizations are responding to healthcare reform and rising costs, as well as their approach to private exchanges, wellness and retirement programs, and other benefit trends and opportunities. Employers can leverage the insights from the survey results to effectively make near-term decisions, as well as guide their long-term strategic planning.

“Although organizations may be aware of the changes that are shaping the future of the employee benefits market, the survey suggests that many are not yet ready to face the challenges these changes will bring,” said James W. Durkin, Jr., President, Employee Benefit Consulting and Brokerage. “Those that adequately adapt to the current reality will optimize their ability to mitigate future costs.”

Controlling Costs
When asked to identify their greatest overall challenge, 67 percent of employers cited controlling benefit costs. Some of the leading strategies identified by the participants for containing benefit costs include:

• Increasing employee plan contributions (54 percent)
• Increasing deductibles (43 percent)
• Increasing out-of-pocket maximums (36 percent)
• Increasing copayments (30 percent)

Attracting and Retaining a Competitive Workforce
Given today’s dynamic workforce, employers are seeking to balance cost containment with employee engagement. Moreover, the increasingly diverse needs and preferences of the current workforce challenge employers to develop a benefits package that appeals to all employees. Survey results show:

• Retirement plans continue to shift toward a defined contribution model, with 64 percent of respondents offering a 401(k) plan.
• Of those, 70 percent match employee contributions.
• Employers continued to gravitate toward wellness programs with 44 percent of participants offering a program to their employees.
• However, even with the increase in the number of employers offering a wellness program, most programs (61 percent) have a budget of less than $10,000.
• Although employees are often interested in long-term care as a voluntary benefit option, 82 percent of employers do not offer this benefit.

Conclusion
U.S. organizations of all sizes and types are looking to contain healthcare and other benefit costs, while competing successfully for talent. However, in today’s uncertain environment and ever-evolving employee regulatory landscape, only 31 percent of employers surveyed have quantified the cost impact of healthcare reform on their organizations. Just 10 percent of participating employers have a written total rewards or strategic benefits plan with measurable objective.

“There is no doubt that the changing benefits landscape will present organizations with complex challenges for years to come,” said Mr. Durkin. “A holistic, innovative, data-driven employee benefits strategy is needed to strike the optimal balance in managing the best interests of employees and employers. This approach allows organizations to respond to change with agility, helping them to minimize risk, maximize rewards and drive growth.”

Reprinted from Executive Perspectives: What Today’s Business Owner Needs to Know, from Pacific Coast Benefits Insurance Services, LLC. Phone 406.847.1000 or email dave@pacbenins.com.

 

 

PRESS RELEASES FROM OUR MEMBERS

Dave Feitl Joins Rhino Linings Corporation as Director of Sales for Building Products Group

Rhino Linings Corporation has named Dave Feitl director of sales for the company’s building products group.

In this newly created position Feitl will oversee both the sales and technical functions of the Concrete Solutions®, Expo Stucco™ and spray foam insulation, sealant and roofing product lines.

“In just a few years, we have expanded our building product lines exponentially,” said Pierre Gagnon, president and CEO of Rhino Linings Corporation. “We want those product lines to be as successful as our elastomeric products, and we needed someone focused exclusively on growing that area of our business.”

Feitl brings years of experience in the building products industry to the job, with a particular emphasis on spray foam, sales and product development. He spent eight years in various jobs at Demilec USA including national sales manager and chief operations officer. Since then, Feitl has held key executive positions at Duna USA and most recently senior vice president of marketing at Thermal Products Research.

Rhino Linings Corporation made a name for itself in the truck accessories market as the leader in sprayed-on truck bed liners. In addition to its well-known vehicle protection, elastomeric and specialty coatings product lines, Rhino Linings Corporation has expanded into the building and construction markets.

Rhino Linings Corporation offers a suite of building solutions for architects, builders and homeowners with its Concrete Solutions® repair and decorative concrete overlay products, BioBased Insulation® and DuraTite® spray foam insulations and Expo Stucco™ exterior stucco products, plasters, interior finishes and patching products.

For more information about any of the products offered by Rhino Linings or to learn more about becoming a Rhino Linings applicator, visit www.rhinolinings.com.

About Rhino Linings Corporation
Rhino Linings Corporation, established in 1988 and headquartered in San Diego, California, is a privately-held corporation and world leader in protective coatings and linings. Products manufactured and distributed by Rhino Linings Corporation include polyurethane, polyaspartic and epoxy coatings, concrete coatings, spray foam insulation and sealants, and interior and exterior stucco. Rhino Linings Corporation has a global retail and industrial applicator network consisting of more than 2,000 independently owned and operated businesses in almost 80 countries and is the first company in the sprayed-on bed liner industry to achieve ISO 9001 certification. For more information about Rhino Linings Corporation, call 858.450.0441 or visit www.rhinolinings.com.

 

Merlex Stucco Introduces LEVELX to Their Product Line

Merlex is pleased to offer LEVELX – a polymer modified leveling and base coat specifically designed to level different wall substrates and provide a crack-resistant base coat. LEVELX contains a high percentage of polymer for flexibility and bond strength, and additives for workability and working time. The product has suction to ensure good bond between the finish plaster and base coat. LEVELX can also be used on rescrubs directly over structurally sound existing plaster, eliminating the need for sandblasting. When mesh is embedded in LEVELX, cracking is reduced significantly, which allows for higher-quality smooth-troweled finishes, or for any finish when crack tolerances are low. For more information please call 714.637.1700 or visit online at www.merlex.com.

 

Merlex Stucco Expands Its Portfolio into Panama

Merlex is proud to be a part of the biodiversity museum, known as Bio Museo, which officially opened its first phase on October 2, 2014, in Panama. Designed by Frank Gehry and plastered by H.I. Homa with consulting from Tom Crow of Crow Plastering, Bio Museo is an exhibition space and botanical park which highlights Panama’s natural wonders and its role as a geological bridge between two continents. With its vivid appearance seen along the canal’s eastern gateway, the stucco facade captures the feel of its surroundings.

 

Parex USA Announces New Leadership Structure

Parex USA, Inc., a leading building material manufacturer which markets its product under the brands of Parex, LaHabra, Merkrete, Teifs and El Rey, announced the promotion of Rodrigo Lacerda to President of ParexGroup Americas, and the addition of James Chilcoff as Managing Director of Parex USA.

As President of ParexGroup Americas, Lacerda will supervise all the Group’s companies in North and South America and will continue to be part of ParexGroup’s Executive Committee as Senior Executive Vice-President. In his new role, Lacerda will coordinate the growth of the group on the North and South American continents and insure the company continues to develop sound strategic positions in each of the countries where we are present.

Chilcoff, the new Managing Director of Parex USA, has had a successful career in the Building Materials industry. He previously spent twelve years with James Hardie in various Sales, Marketing and General Management roles, including in Australia, where he led the company’s operations. More recently, Chilcoff was the Managing Director of U.S. Gibraltar Industries, a leading manufacturer of metal and flashing products. Chilcoff has a BA in Marketing from Eastern Michigan University and a MBA in Management from Xavier University.

About Parex USA
Parex USA, Inc., a California Corporation, is a subsidiary of the ParexGroup, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of specialty chemicals and ready-to-use mortars for the construction industry. With over 61 manufacturing sites and 9 R&D centers in 21 countries, the ParexGroup employs more than 3,550 industry professionals who are the corner stone of this thriving global organization. For more information regarding Parex USA, Inc. visit www.parexusa.com.

 

Atlas EPS Adopts New Evaluation Agency

Atlas EPS is pleased to announce formal evaluation listing with Underwriters Laboratories (UL). The new evaluation report (UL ER16529.1) is a direct comparison to the traditional ICC-ES evaluation report that has been standard for the industry. Atlas EPS has long relied on UL for 3rd party approval auditing and classification listing, and is confident the new UL evaluation report will enhance Atlas’ reputation of providing code compliant building materials.

“With competitors to ICC-ES emerging in the code evaluation field, UL seemed to be a better fit for Atlas EPS, given their strength in fire safety and material compliance,” according to Ted Grant, Technical Services Director at Atlas EPS. “We made the change with careful consideration of the reputation of UL for code compliance. Clients should be assured that products marked ‘ER16529.1’ will be readily accepted by code inspectors.”

The new UL report includes approvals for exterior walls of commercial buildings (NFPA285 approvals), products exposed in basements with no drywall, R-value enhanced Neopor products, and water resistive barriers. These applications are not “prescriptive” in the codes, and the evaluation report instructs the inspectors of how the products have passed ASTM, ICC-ES, or NFPA criteria to prove suitability.

Atlas EPS continues to be the leader in the EPS industry for approved products in all areas of building construction. In addition to the evaluation report, Atlas EPS continues to use Classification Listings with UL for UL723 (E84), C578, E2430, D6817, UL790, and UL263 (hourly fire ratings). FM Approved products are also available.

About Atlas EPS
Atlas EPS, a division of Atlas Roofing Corporation, specializes in the development and manufacture of innovative, high-quality, HFC- and HCFC-free Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) insulation for construction, packaging and OEM products. Headquartered in Byron Center, Michigan, Atlas EPS maintains four locations in North America. Its molding facility in Michigan is the largest EPS manufacturing plant in the industry. For additional information about Atlas EPS, visit atlaseps.com or call 800.917.9138.

PRESIDENT’S LETTER: Energy Codes and Stucco

Kevin Wensel, Omega Products International

Energy codes around the nation are continuing to require increases in the energy efficiency of buildings. These changes have the potential to drastically affect the way walls are built. As a consequence, the cladding system used on the walls may need to change, which will directly impact the members of the SMA. Therefore, the SMA has invested considerable time into looking into these changes and how the stucco industry will need to adapt.

Many states and local jurisdictions are adopting new energy codes that require increased insulation values in the walls. To meet the requirements, many walls will need to use continuous insulation (CI). In fact, some building codes, such as California, now include continuous insulation as part of the standard (prescriptive) design baseline. Insulating one coat stucco systems is a great option to meet these requirements. One coat stucco incorporates rigid insulation board (EPS, XPS, or polyisocyanurate) under the lath and plaster. These systems have been successfully used in a variety of climates for more than thirty years and can be installed generally at a cost that is similar to traditional three coat.

If a builder or designer would prefer not to use CI, there are options to continue using traditional three coat without insulation board. One possible option would be to use advanced framing techniques. SMA recently published a technical paper on this topic. Please refer to the SMA website at www.stuccomfgassoc.com and click on Educational Resources in the top menu bar and select Technical Papers in the submenu to download the free technical paper on Advanced Framing. Another potential option, for some building types and climates, is to design the building using the performance standards and offset the loss in energy from not using CI with improvements in other areas (such as windows, HVAC, roof insulation, etc.).

Stucco systems can continue to thrive under these new energy requirements, but the industry needs to be aware of the changes and how to meet the requirements. The SMA will continue to monitor the developments and keep our membership aware.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Norma S. Fox, SMA Executive Director

SMA is off to great start this year. We had 97% membership renewal and have picked up four new members this year. Welcome to Blue Mountain Mineral, Expo Stucco Products div. Rhino Linings Corporation, Hunter Panels XCI Division, and Westside Building Materials Corp. We have more than doubled our membership in the last twelve months.

The new committee structure is working beautifully. We have held two Three Coat Committee Meetings via telephone conference call and two One Coat Committee Meetings via telephone conference call. Accessories Committee is still in formation and when they have their Goals in place we will hold a first Accessories Committee Meeting. Oh yes, One Coat is headed by Mike Griffin of Quikrete, Three Coat by Nick Brown of Merlex, and Accessories Committee by Jeff Sacks of Structa Wire and Bob Blaswich of Tree Island. If you haven’t already provided your name to be part of these committees, please let me know. This is SMA Members Only.

At the end of April I met Eddie McCormack, Executive Director of National One Coat Association out of Texas. He and I had dinner and spoke about ways we can work together to help both associations. We then walked the WCCA Trade Show held in Huntington Beach and got to see a lot of our members plus met new folks.

There are many exciting things that will happen with SMA over the next six months to one year. We are looking into doing a 3/4 day seminar with lunch for the industry. We are working with Mike Logue on this. It is very exciting! I will keep you posted on progress … date has not been set yet.

We are hoping to hold a day of committee meetings, lunch with speaker and a seminar the day before World of Concrete in Las Vegas in early February. As soon as we have it all planned, I will fill you in on all the info. Again very educational for the industry.

Do not forget our Golf Tournament is coming up on September 18th — and I need your support please!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Overall Sponsors – Gold, Silver or Bronze, Hole/Green Sponsors, items for Raffle, items for players – hats, golf balls, towels. Please let me know if you can participate on any of these levels. I want to get the golf invite out to sign up players by July 1st so I need your commitments no later than May 30th in order to have the names of the Gold, Silver and Bronze supporters on the actual invite.

This year we have a meeting on Building Science at Antonello’s the day before the Golf Tournament. Watch for that flyer as well. We have been selling out Antonello’s. This is good but we may have to locate to a larger facility to accommodate all.

Thank you to Kevin Wensel and the excellent job he is doing as President of SMA and to our outstanding board of directors for all their hard work and dedication to SMA. They are all a joy to work with.

P.S. I am moving my office and home on June 16th, so I may be down for a few days. Please be patient with me until all is reconnected and up and running. Thank you.

LEGISLATIVE NEWS

SB 1446. On February 21 Senator DeSaulnier introduced a bill that will allow Small Employers, with health plans in effect on October 1, 2013, that were still in effect as of the effective date of the Affordable Healthcare Act, and that did not qualify for grandfathered status under ACA to be renewed until January 1, 2015 and to continue to be in force until December 31, 2015.

This new bill is game changing for those small groups who “Early Renewed” in December of 2013 and have not yet purchased a new ACA compliant Small Group Health Plan. It is estimated that more than 85% of Small Business health plans in California “early renewed” in December. The folks in power in Sacramento realize that this means a huge flood of large rate increases will be delivered to these policy holders in October for December 1st effective dates. This new bill, if passed, will mitigate the impact of what’s ahead in December by allowing employers to keep their current plans in place until the end of 2015.

SB 1446 is on the fast track and will be voted up or down at some point this summer. The next step for the bill is a hearing in Sacramento on May 19th.  I have attached the link to the legislative information below.

http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=201320140SB1446

 

SAVE THE DATE: DON’T MISS OUR ANNUAL LOOK AT THE ECONOMY

Learn from our featured speaker, the respected economist Christopher Thornberg, Ph.D. – Mark your calendars for November 6.

FEATURE ARTICLES

Never Drop Your Prices Again! How to Stop Selling on Price

I was recently at Lord & Taylor with a close friend of mine when she held up two pairs of high-heeled shoes. Both pairs were black, appeared similar and looked pretty to me. “What do you think each pair of shoes costs?” she asked.

“Well, this is a nice place, so I’m guessing that they both cost about $150,” I replied.

She smiled at me as if she were watching a puppy hopelessly barking at the moon. “Actually this pair,” she said, holding up the shoes in her left hand, “costs $110.”

“I was close!” I said defensively.

But then she continued. “Now this pair,” she said, holding up the shoes in her right hand, “costs $650.”

“What?!?!? But they look so similar!” I exclaimed in surprise.

Upon further reflection, I began to see the parallels that women’s shoes have with selling on price versus value: Products or services that are fundamentally the same can sell for drastically different prices. It all depends on the way they’re sold.

Let me introduce you to two salespeople: Don and Liz. Both have been selling bathroom accessories for 20 years. However, they each sell in a completely different way.

Don is all about price. He’ll walk into a prospect’s office and say, “I see that you’re working with Grohe, and I can show you how you can save 50% by working with me instead…”

Liz, on the other hand, is all about selling on value. She’ll walk into a prospect’s office and begin a conversation by saying, “I really appreciate your inviting me in today. I want to tell you up front that if you are looking for the lowest prices, I’m not your gal. My goal is to help my clients create a bathroom that ‘wows’ visitors. Does it make sense for us to continue talking?”

Both approaches lead to sales, but the difference in the average transaction size and profitability is night and day. Liz wins, and she wins big. If you’re determined to sell on price like Don, then you should stop reading this now. However, if you’re open to selling on value like Liz, then stay with me…

Here are four ways to stop selling on price:

• Stop being a vendor: Don is a vendor to his customers, while Liz is a strategic partner to her clients. Get away from just being another vendor offering the best price. Instead, focus on how you can help provide massive value to your clients. The prospects that just want the best price are not who you want to work with. At least 60% of prospects want something more than just the best price. Target those folks.
• Be distinct: Both of the shoes my friend showed me appeared to be similar, but one had a very distinct brand, while the other was essentially no-named. You don’t need advertising to be distinct — your approach to selling can be what makes you stand out. While Don’s approach was pretty cheesy and predictable, Liz was bold and totally distinct from what the prospect typically experiences. Immediately, the prospect is intrigued to understand more about why Liz isn’t the cheapest. Everyone knows that they get what they pay for, so let them experience the best.
• Create value in your conversation: Every qualified prospect has challenges that you can solve. For example, in the case of Liz, her qualified prospect might be a developer that has used cheap bathroom accessories in the past only to find that they frequently break and need to be replaced after only a year. By learning about the prospect’s experience and how much that cost him in lost revenues, Liz is creating tremendous value for her products — before she ever even shows him her product line.
• Pile it on: Good prospects are willing to pay more when they believe they are getting tremendous value. That means that, in order to create that value, you must think in terms of selling solutions and packages. For example, Liz not only sells bathroom accessories, but she also offers custom design and assistance with actually installing the accessories in order to ensure that they last for many years. This perceived added value allows her to charge a higher price than Don could ever imagine charging. How can you add additional products or services to your offering to increase the perceived value of your product or service?

Selling on price is never the only option for a company. By following these four steps and thinking creatively about how to increase your value in the eyes of the client, your sale size will increase dramatically.

Marc Wayshak  is a sales strategist who created the Game Plan Selling System. He is the author of two books on sales and leadership, including his latest book, Game Plan Selling and a regular online contributor to Entrepreneur Magazine and the Huffington Post business section. Find his free eBook on 25 Tips to Crush Your Sales Goal online.

 

Static and Dynamic Earthquake Testing of Rainscreen Stucco Systems for B.C. Residential Wood-Frame Construction

Research Highlight: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

While British Columbia does not face the same high frequency of large, damage-inflicting earthquakes as does California, the largest subduction earthquake predicted for North America will affect the south end of Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. Such an earthquake (caused by the collision and underthrusting of tectonic plates) has a high probability of occurrence this century. Without substantial improvements to the earthquake preparedness of British Columbia’s housing infrastructure, the consequences of a large earthquake could be devastating.

Research has shown that non-structural building components, such as stucco cladding and drywall, can have a major influence on earthquake performance. In response to the moisture penetration problems experienced in contemporary residential construction in southwestern British Columbia, the adoption of “rainscreen” stucco wall systems, whereby an air cavity is incorporated to provide a capillary break and to allow drainage of bulk water immediately behind the cladding, thereby substantially reducing moisture penetration, is mandated in some jurisdictions. However, the earthquake performance of this “rainscreen” stucco system is unknown.

The primary objective of this research was to undertake a comparative evaluation of rainscreen and non-rainscreen stucco systems to determine if there is any significant change in earthquake performance through the introduction of the rainscreen cavity. The secondary objectives of this research were to assess the ability of rainscreen stucco to withstand large earthquakes and to develop refinements to the design of rainscreen stucco systems for improved earthquake performance.

RESEARCH PROGRAM
The research program consisted of two parts: component static testing and full scale dynamic testing. The rate of loading for the static tests was slow compared with that for the dynamic tests. All testing, both static and dynamic, was performed in the Structures Laboratory at the University of British Columbia.

Component Static Testing
The purpose of the static tests was to determine the variation in shear strength with lateral or in-plane deformation for stucco systems of different construction. The results of these static tests were used to model stucco behavior in the analytical software developed to predict earthquake damage.

A total of 18 panels were tested: three non-rainscreen stucco panels and 15 rainscreen stucco panels. The wood-frame test panels were each 1,219 mm long x 2,438 mm high (4 ft. x 8 ft.) consisting of 38 x 89 (2 x 4 in., nominal) wood studs at 400 mm (16 in.) centres. Vertical strips of 89 mm (3.5 in.) wide and 11 mm (0.4 in.) thick OSB (oriented strand board) sheathing was nailed to each vertical stud; the OSB sheathing was not continuous to allow the stucco strength data to be generated directly. Vertical strapping, aligned with each vertical stud, was nailed to the OSB sheathing for the rainscreen stucco systems; the strapping was omitted for the non-rainscreen stucco. The stucco mix was in accordance with the 1998 British Columbia Building Code. The earthquake resistance was evaluated for the following parameters:

• type of strapping material (SPF (spruce, pine, fir) or plywood)
• type of strapping nails (roofing or common)
• length of strapping nails—38, 50 or 64 mm (1.5, 2 or 2.5 in.)
• type of lath fastener (roofing nails, electroplated staples or stainless steel staples)
• lath fastener length—38 or 50 mm (1.5 or 2 in.)

While lath type also varied (welded wire mesh, expanded metal mesh with building paper, or heavy duty K-lath with backing paper), the limited number of lath types tested did not constitute a comprehensive assessment.

The panels were installed vertically in a test rig with hold-downs at the bottom, such that only lateral (in-plane) movement was permitted (see Figure 1). An actuator and load cell subjected each panel to pre-determined lateral displacements at the top of the panel. Test cycles were conducted in pairs, one in each direction; the lateral movement of each test cycle pair was 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, 144 and 192 mm (1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 inch, nominal), representing approximate drifts of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 per cent, respectively. Testing was stopped when the test specimen had effectively failed or the last cycle (maximum drift) was applied. Recorded test data included resistance at the top of the panel, lateral deformation or drift at the top of the panel, and uplift at each hold-down. The primary test output was the hysteretic static force versus deformation curves for each test cycle for each panels. This parametric test data is crucial for the determination of strength, ductility and earthquake damage estimates. The parametric data from the static tests was used to predict earthquake damage (drift) for the two dynamic tests.

A separate strapping test was conducted on an additional frame, free of building paper, lath and stucco. The purpose of this separate test was to examine the effect of different combinations of strapping and lath fasteners on possible splitting of the two types of strapping used.

Full Scale Dynamic Testing
The dynamic tests were conducted to investigate and compare the behavior of a full-scale building, with non-rainscreen stucco and with rainscreen stucco, subjected to the ground motions of past recorded earthquakes. Three earthquakes were simulated (the modified Nahanni earthquake, the Landers earthquake and the Kobe JMA earthquake), each representing a gradual progression in severity of ground motion shaking and different durations of shaking.

The houses tested were 93 m2 (Approximately1,000 sq. ft.) in area [7.6 m (25 ft.) in the direction of shaking by 6.1 m (20 ft.)] of typical wood-frame construction. The houses featured all materials and components that could have an influence on the seismic performance, including exterior cladding (stucco), drywall, interior partitions, doors and windows. Floor and roof loads were simulated with concrete blocks attached to the relevant surfaces. The stucco system for the non-rainscreen test utilized 38-mm (1.5 in.) welded wire mesh held with 38-mm (1.5 in.) staples. The stucco system for the rainscreen test utilized a heavy-duty K-lath secured with 50-mm (2 in.) staples and SPF strapping secured with 64-mm (2.5 in.) roofing nails.

The test house (see Figure 2) was supported on a horizontal steel frame, which acted as the foundation for the house. The steel frame was supported on low- friction rollers that permitted uni-directional motion.

The steel frame was driven by a high capacity actuator mounted on the plan centerline of the frame to simulate the ground motion of actual earthquakes by regulating the shake table actuator force (in kN), steel frame displacement (in cm) and acceleration (in g’s). Instrumentation to record the movement of the house was mounted on a steel column adjacent to the house. The primary data recorded for each test included:

• peak values of absolute acceleration in the direction of movement at the roof level, 2nd floor level and base level
• relative displacements and drift for each wall at the roof and 2nd floor levels in comparison to the base level
• anchor rod loads at the 2nd floor and base levels

The primary test output was the drift time history of the first and second storeys. These drift time histories permit a comparative and absolute assessment of the earthquake performance.

RESULTS
Component Static Testing
With respect to the lath, the earthquake performance of panels with staple lath fasteners was found to be superior to that of panels with nail fasteners. Panels with longer staples—50 mm (2 in.) exhibited substantially better strength than panels with shorter staples—38 mm (1.5 in.). In summary, the use of staples is recommended over nails and there should be a minimum penetration into the stud of 25 mm (1 in.), or total penetration of sheathing and minimum penetration of 16 mm (5/8 in.) into the stud. Staples should be installed with the staple legs at diagonally opposite sides of the intersection of the horizontal and vertical wires of the welded wire mesh. If the vertical wire of the lath is not centered on the stud to allow staple penetration into the stud, the staple should be installed vertically with the staple legs on either side of the horizontal wire. Maximum staple spacing for studs at 400 mm (16 inches) spacing is 150 mm (6 in) vertically and 400 mm (16 in) horizontally (—600 mm (24 in) stud spacing was not studied).

With respect to the strapping, pressure-treated plywood strapping was found to have better ductility than pressure-treated SPF strapping and showed less strength degradation at higher drift levels. The strength performance of the test panels with roofing nails was almost 40 per cent better than that with common nails. Short strapping nails—38 mm (1.5 in.) precipitated brittle failure of the cladding. Long strapping nails—64 mm (2.5 in.) gave better performance. In summary, the preferred strapping is 19 x 75 mm (3/4 in. x 3.0 in.) plywood secured to the sheathing and studs with 64 mm (2.5 in.) hot-dipped galvanized roofing nails at no more than 300-mm (12 in.) spacing.

Full Scale Dynamic Testing
Both houses performed very well, with neither house sustaining significant earthquake damage. The only evidence of damage was small cracks emanating from the re-entrant window and door corners. The performance of both tests was comparable, though the rainscreen house was stiffer than the non-rainscreen house due to the influence of the strapping. The dynamic tests were especially valuable in refining and verifying the reliability of the earthquake damage estimation software that has been developed as part of another research project.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE HOUSING INDUSTRY
The research project demonstrated that the performance of rainscreen and non-rainscreen stucco is comparable, and that either system has the potential to effectively eliminate major structural earthquake damage in residential wood-frame buildings (single family and multiunit construction). However, refinements to current stucco construction practice will make a major contribution to capitalizing on this impressive mitigation potential. In particular, the use of 50-mm (2 in.) staples as lath fasteners should replace the current practice of nails, and plywood strapping secured with roofing nails should be used in rainscreen stucco construction.

Although this information product reflects housing experts’ current knowledge, it is provided for general information purposes only. Any reliance or action taken based on the information, materials and techniques described are the responsibility of the user. Readers are advised to consult appropriate professional resources to determine what is safe and suitable in their particular case. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation assumes no responsibility for any consequence arising from use of the information, materials and techniques described. To find more Research Highlights plus a wide variety of information products, visit our website at www.cmhc.ca or contact: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, 700 Montreal Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0P7

 

Survey Indicates Growing Concern Over Builder Costs

Mike Griffin, Quickrete

In the latest monthly NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index the special questions asked builders about the problems they faced in 2013 and expect to face in 2014. In January 2014 survey, out of 5 different sections with significant problems faced by the builders, one of the sections relates to building costs. Similar questions were asked about problems faced in earlier years, so it’s possible to trace the evolution of problems builders faced in 2011, 2012, 2013 and expect to face this year.

According to the latest survey, 81 percent of the builders expect building materials prices to be one of their significant problems expected in 2014, up 13 percentage points from the share who faced that problem in 2013 and substantially up from 46 percent in 2012 and 33 percent in 2011.

Second is the cost/availability of labor, according to 65 percent of builders who expect to face it in 2014, up from 53 percent who said they faced the problem in 2013, 30 percent in 2012 and only 13 percent in 2011. More than half of the builders expect cost/availability of developed lots to be a significant problem. This is also up from 46 percent who said they faced the problem in 2013, 34 percent in 2012 and 21 percent in 2011.

With the health reforms in place since 1st of January 2014, 48 percent of the builders expect costs of health insurance be a significant problem in 2014.  The problems associated with health insurance were slightly less common among builders in 2012 than in 2011, but higher in 2013 where 33 percent of the respondents indicated it to be a significant problem.

At this stage, the pace of the housing recovery could be stronger, if the rising construction costs did not emerge as a significant obstacle.

 

Self Cleaning Stucco

Nick Brown, Merlex Stucco

As a businessman who loves science, I try to keep up with advances in materials that can make my products outperform my competitors’. So I did some research when a few companies began marketing nano-particle Titanium Dioxide that they promoted as pollution-reducing and self-cleaning.

In plain terms, these additives use photocatalysis to break down pollutants on the surface of a building that can be rinsed clean by rain. The sun’s rays activate the photocatalytic reaction, and the reaction is perpetual, in that the catalyst for the reaction, the special Titanium Dioxide, is still present in the coating and continues to break down pollutants for the life of the coating.

I have noticed companies promoting products using this technology in other building materials products:

• Smog-eating roof tile
• Air-cleaning drywall
• Self-cleaning acrylic coatings

In our industry, companies presented their products for our evaluation, including a cement product that contains the nano-TiO₂. Another company marketed its pigments that contain similar additives. So we invested some R&D effort to determine feasibility of incorporating these additives in our cementitious products.

The first study was conducted in 2010. We created 10 stucco panels, which were soiled and then exposed to sunlight. The composition of the panels was unknown by the lab to keep performance results unbiased. The reflectance was measured before and after, and the difference between the soiled and post-radiation reflectance values was deemed to be the amount of self-cleaning accomplished using the pigments.

We found strong evidence that the photocatalytic pigments and cement reduced the soiling of the surface, the longer they were exposed to the solar radiation. Results were:

• Photocatalytic cement reduced soiling by 55-75% versus normal cement
• Photocatalytic pigments reduced soiling by 20-45% versus normal pigments
• Light colors showed the most self-cleaning activity, up to 75% from initial soiling
• Dark colors showed little or no self-cleaning activity

Our research uncovered some splashy early successes with these product and some reason for caution. Some articles said that the jury was still out on these products and how harmless the byproducts of photocatalysis really are. Other articles suggested that photocatalytic materials may gradually break down the surfaces they act on.

Jubilee Church, Rome: used photocatalytic additive in concrete

Our partners in Italy, Rialto, have also done a large body of research in this area, and found that organic materials do not seem to be a good vehicle for photocatalytics. In other words, cement and lime seem to be degraded over time by the photocatalytic reactions. But put these additives in an acrylic or siloxane formulation and they are more effective. This is what Rialto chose to do, introducing its Photocatalytic Domosil siloxane coating in 2009. They promote it as self-cleaning, rather than touting its ability to clean the pollutants out of the air, which would require significant surface area to have any discernible effect. In fact, our Italian partners shared that all is not perfect with the Jubilee Church in Rome; the cement is not performing as expected and modifications may have been made.

We conducted an extremely unscientific study to try to get at performance over time of these additives in cement stucco. I did what any businessman without an R&D department would do… I put a bunch of samples on my roof and left them for 4 years. The results seem to bear out what our Italian partners told us about putting these additives in cement, that it may degrade the surface somewhat.

Smooth Santa Barbara Finish stucco. Left: normal cement and photocatalytic pigments; Right: photocatalytic cement and normal pigments. Note the degradation of the surface of the photocatalytic cement sample relative to the normal one. Both showed more wear than expected for normal stucco.

Sand finish stucco. Left: photocatalytic cement and normal pigments, Right: normal cement and photocatalytic pigments. Note that both samples exhibited signs of surface erosion and fading beyond what would be normally expected.

Fogcoat performed very well with photocatalytic additives. Left: photocatalytic pigments, Right: photocatalytic cement

Because of the high price of these materials, up to 7 times that of normal materials, the fogcoat option was the most attractive. It performed well and required just a thin coating. These samples performed just as well as the integrally colored coatings that were a full 1/8” thick, with 30-70% self-cleaning action measured. This was performance right in line with the thicker coatings.

For more information, consult these sources that I found very helpful:

Chusid, Michael. “Photacatalysts, Self Cleaning Concrete”, Concrete Décor Archives, http://www.concretedecor.net/All_Access/504/CD504_New_Tech.cfm and http://www.concretedecor.net/All_Access/504/CD504_New_Tech2.cfm

Chusid, Michael. “Words You Should Know: Photocatalysis, Depollution”, Precast Solutions Fall 2006

California Energy Commission, “Evaluation of Titanium Dioxide as a Photocatalyst for Removing Air Pollutants”, January 2008, CEC-500-2007-112.

 

PRESS RELEASES FROM OUR MEMBERS

Michael Logue, Independent Consultant and Expert Witness

Michael Logue, formerly the Director of WWCCA, has opened up Michael M. Logue and Associates and is operating as an independent lath, plaster and drywall consultant and expert witness.

Michael’s nearly 14 years at the WWCCA and 32 years in the wall and ceiling industry have prepared him for this endeavor. Contact: PO Box 274, Yorba Linda CA 92885-0274, or 714 773 2769.

 

Parex USA Launches The Academy

ANAHEIM, CA — April 8, 2014 – Parex USA, Inc., the parent company of leading building material brands, Parex, Teifs, LaHabra, El Rey, and Merkrete, introduces The Academy – an educational website specifically designed to show contractors, architects, designers and specifiers how Parex USA systems and assemblies work.

The Academy includes a wide selection of videos for viewers to learn about EIFS, Stucco and Tile Setting Solutions. Viewers can watch and learn at their convenience, track their progress and go back to review videos at any time. Video categories include application techniques for EIF Systems, Specialty Finishes, Stucco Assemblies, Water & Air Barriers and Tile and Stone Installation Systems.

“Parex USA is a leader in the construction product category, and the addition of The Academy helps to distinguish our company as a knowledgeable industry resource,” says Robert Dickson, Director of Technical Services. “It’s a great, self-learning tool for anyone in the construction industry to use at any time, on any device, to learn about our products and the best application techniques for those products.”

Registration for The Academy is free. Visit http://academy.parexusa.com for additional information.

Parex USA Introduces New NO VOC Colorants in California

ANAHEIM, CA — March 12, 2014 – Parex USA, Inc., the parent company of leading building material brands, Parex, Teifs, LaHabra, El Rey, and Merkrete, introduces a new colorant technology that is compliant with the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (SCAQMD) new ruling for VOC limits of tinted exterior coatings and finishes.

For some years, the SCAQMD has been focusing on regulations to reduce the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) content in a variety of construction material sectors. A new ruling in California, Rule 1113, now limits the VOC of tinted exterior coatings and finishes to 50 g/l. By introducing the Parex USA NO VOC Colorants in California, Parex USA can continue offering high-quality, reliable coatings and finishes that will meet the new VOC regulations.

The new Parex USA NO VOC Colorant line will have 11 environmentally-friendly colors that will provide optimal performance and greater color consistency. The NO VOC Colorants are already being implemented into all Parex USA acrylic and elastomeric base products, as well as color bottles, at the company’s California plants – Riverside, CA and French Camp, CA.

“Parex USA is committed to providing high-quality colorants, which meet environmental regulations in California and across the U.S.,” said Robert Dickson, Director of Technical Services for Parex USA. “Transitioning to non-VOC colorants in California positions the company at the forefront of environmental innovation in the architectural coatings & finishes industry.”

Notable features of Parex USA’s NO VOC Colorants include:

• Environmentally friendly colorants with zero VOC (<1 g/l)
• Developed to work with all Parex USA base materials including acrylic and elastomeric products
• Compliant with California’s new VOC regulations per SCAQMD Rule 1113
• Convenient packaging
• Ability to continue offering limitless color options
• Optimum performance and stability

Parex USA, Inc., a California Corporation, is a subsidiary of the ParexGroup, a division of Materis, S.A., a French Corporation. The ParexGroup is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of specialty chemicals and ready-to-use mortars for the construction industry. With over 60 manufacturing sites, 9 R&D centers in 21 countries the ParexGroup employs more than 3,450 industry professionals who are the corner stone of this thriving global organization. For more information regarding Parex USA, Inc. visit www.parexusa.com.

 

Merlex Congratulates Vince Overmyer on 20 Years

Vince Overmyer just celebrated his 20th anniversary with Merlex Stucco. The Merlex VP of Sales began his career in distribution at Sun City and Cimarron in the 1980s, and joined Merlex in 1994 as a sales representative. He took over management of the Merlex sales team in 2002, and was promoted to Vice President in 2007, when he also joined the Merlex Board of Directors.

He is known in the industry as a straight shooter, has strong technical understanding of plaster systems, and enjoys the daily challenge of optimizing his salespeople’s activities to generate sales and give great customer service. He was one of the industry’s driving forces behind the successful crack-reduction systems that significantly reduce surface cracking in smooth-troweled stucco. Outside of work, he serves on the Board of Inland Empire CSI, CBMDA, and the Hemet Planning Commission. He enjoys scuba diving, golf, and international travel. Please join us in congratulating Vince on this career milestone.

 

Merlex Stucco Partners with Business Development Consultant

Bob Papera, formerly the president and owner of Expo Industries, is currently consulting for Merlex Stucco. He will spearhead Business Development in the San Diego market, where Merlex recently expanded, opening a warehouse in the Sorrento Valley.

Bob began his career with Expo Stucco in 1976. Upon purchasing the company in 1982, he opened four more distribution centers throughout Southern California, as well as international distribution. In the ’90s, Bob broadened its product line to include sustainable stucco, and was known for quality and customer service with a family-owned spirit.

After the sale of Expo assets to Rhino Linings, Bob wanted to remain an integral part of the stucco industry and felt Merlex Stucco had the same kind of superior stucco products, superb customer service, and followed the same beliefs and core values he believes make a business successful. Bob will continue his work through his other business venture, IHE, building affordable housing around the world.  Merlex is honored to welcome Bob to the family, and knows that our success will be great with him on the team.

 

Parex USA Hires Export and Architectural Sales Representatives

ANAHEIM, CA — February 17, 2014 – Parex USA, Inc., the parent company of leading building material brands, Parex, Teifs, LaHabra, El Rey and Merkrete, announces the addition of two new hires — Eric Hindson, Asia Pacific Export Manager, and Jimmy Trotter, Architectural Sales & National Accounts Representative for the Northeast.

Hindson has been in the stucco industry for over 15 years. During this time he has worked in domestic and international sales. He held several sales and management positions. He will be in charge of growing our export business, in the Asia Pacific markets.

Trotter brings with him a wealth of knowledge in the EIFS & Stucco Industry. He will be handling the Northeast Corridor of the United States and will develop Parex USA project opportunities with architects, spec writers and national accounts in the region. Since joining our company, he has already started developing strong relationships in the Northeast and has begun making a quick impact within the design community.”

Parex USA, Inc., a California Corporation, is a subsidiary of the ParexGroup, a division of Materis, S.A., a French Corporation. The ParexGroup is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of specialty chemicals and ready-to-use mortars for the construction industry. With over 60 manufacturing sites, 9 R&D centers in 21 countries the ParexGroup employs more than 3,450 industry professionals who are the corner stone of this thriving global organization. For more information regarding Parex USA, Inc. visit www.parexusa.com.

PRESIDENT’S LETTER: Getting Involved

Kevin Wensel, Omega Products International

After many difficult years, it appears the construction industry has finally turned the corner. In almost all markets there has been a steady, broad-based improvement in the number of building permits issued. As construction increases, many suppliers and contractors are struggling to keep up. Most businesses cut staff during the downturn and, even with this increase in building, have not replaced many of those workers. That leaves the remaining staff overworked. With little spare time, involvement in industry groups and events tends to get sacrificed. I would challenge you not to let that happen.

Being involved will not only help your company, but will better the industry as a whole. At the SMA, our goal is to promote and support the plaster industry. We want to be the national voice for everything related to plaster, including color coat, three coat, one coat, and accessories. In the last year we have made great strides toward that goal with the establishment of the One Coat and Three Coat Committees. All members are encouraged to participate in these committees. They are a forum to discuss issues that involve the plaster industry and work as a group to resolve challenges that face our membership.

There are many challenges facing the plaster industry in the next few years. Probably most pressing are the upcoming changes to the energy and building codes that may profoundly impact the way plaster systems are installed in many areas of the United States. Challenges like this are best addressed as an industry and the SMA is the organization to make that happen.

These are exciting times for the SMA. I encourage you to become involved and invite others to participate also. Together we can all make the plaster industry stronger.

 

SMA First Annual Golf Tournament — Highlights

One could not have asked for a more beautiful day to play in the SMA first annual golf tournament. We had a full 18 holes, a magnificent day to be outside, lots of fun and great food. Oh yes, don’t forget the raffle items. Strawberry Farms in Irvine rolled out the red carpet for us, and they couldn’t have been nicer. We look forward to working with them next year for the second annual golf tournament — SAVE THE DATE for September 18, 2014!

Here are your winners:
First Place:
Vince Overmeyer, Paul Maag, Jim Tunstill and Brian Ott
Second Place:
Louis Corpolongo, Mr. Shrimp Sr., Eric Shrimp and Mr. Hoffman
Third Place Tie:
Jose Castellon, Walt Niestemski, Doug Dalton, Steve Hreha and Scott Robeson, Rick Edwards

Closest to the Pin: Jim Tunstill on #17 and Mr. Shuck on #11
Longest Drive: Tim McGuire
Putting Contest: Vince Overmeyer

I also want to thank our volunteers:
Ted Jones – MC
Tina McIntyre – TXI/Riverside Cement
Jim Gonzales – Putting Contest – TXI/Riverside Cement
Karine Galla – ParexUSA

Thank you to Jim Dean of P.W. Gillibrand for donating items for the raffle. Much appreciated. And thank you to all our sponsors who helped in raising money, a portion of which will be donated to Wounded Warriors. Thank you ALL.

GOLD
Omega Products International
Thompson Building Supply
ParexUSA, Inc.

SILVER
P.W. Gillibrand Co. Inc.

BRONZE
P. T. Hutchins
BMI Products
Merlex Stucco
Haver Filling Systems, Inc.
TXI, Inc.
Lhoist North America

Save the Date for Next Year: September 18, 2014

Tina McIntyre of TXI/Riverside Cement has agreed to work with SMA’s Executive Director Norma Fox to put together next year’s tournament. Anyone else who wishes to be on the committee please let Norma know.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Norma S. Fox, SMA Executive Director

SMA is exploding and it is in a good way. We have picked up 18 new members since the beginning of summer. This is good! We have increased our board of directors from 7 to 9 and have formed working committees – Three Coat and One Coat. Our committees have started holding telephone conference calls and I have to tell you it is very exciting. 2014 is going to be a very good year for SMA. The committees will be focusing on issues facing their particular part of the stucco industry.

One Coat is looking to make a video to show the proper installation of one coat stucco which will go up on YouTube. They are also going to produce marketing literature from the association for distribution to the industry and the public at large. They will be dealing with regulations and issues of great importance. Out of this will come a number of Technical Papers. Supplier members are welcome to join in on these conference calls. I will send out notices to all members when a call is scheduled. Just let me know you want to be part of it, and I will send you the call-in info and agenda. This committee is chaired by Mike Griffin of Quikrete.

Three Coat has met as well via conference call. They are focusing on various rules and regulations that are changing in the industry, and along with WWCCA will work to produce Technical Papers and White Papers as needed. Any SMA member is welcome to participate in these phone meetings. Again, I will send out a notice prior to the meeting and when you let me know you want to be part of it, I will send you the info you need to do just that. This committee is chaired by Nick Brown.

The Board of Directors will be holding a full-day Strategic Planning Session in early December to set the future of the SMA. Our goal is to complete a five-year plan with a map of what we have to do and where we are going. The SMA is going to become a vital national association for stucco. We invite any other association in this industry to work with us to make stucco the viable product it is and the best product for construction.

We are looking for ideas for member meetings in 2014. If you have any suggestions please send them to me via email and I will discuss your idea with our board of directors.

I am happy to report to all our members that SMA for the fiscal year which ended on 9.30.13 was outstanding. We finished with a profit of $5,000. This is a first in a very long time. Yeah!!!!!!!!!!

We want to continue building the association and bringing in new members — so if any of you know folks or companies that should be members, talk to them and then give me the name of that company and the person I need to speak with to make it happen.

DON’T MISS OUR ANNUAL LOOK AT THE ECONOMY
Learn from our featured speaker, the respected economist Christopher Thornberg, Ph.D. — What’s Wrong (and Right) with the U.S. Economy. Sign up today!

 

FEATURE ARTICLES

Introducing Safety Compliance Stickers

AVOID FINES WITH SAFETY SIGNS. As a full-service Cal/OSHA compliance, consulting service and Cal/OSHA defense firm, EEAP The Safety People is introducing Safety Stickers to increase the safety awareness and compliance within your business. Fax us at 661 526 7832 or e-mail us at info@eeap.net with your order.

Vinyl Is the Most Common Siding on New Homes

Eye on Housing The National Association of Home Builders Blog

The most common exterior wall material was vinyl on homes started in 2012. Vinyl siding was used on 32 percent of the new homes started in 2012, followed by brick for 25 percent of homes. Stucco was the principal exterior wall material for at least 20 percent of the homes started according to the data from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction (SOC).

The SOC specifically collects data on whether the principal exterior wall material in a new home is vinyl siding (including vinyl-covered aluminum), brick or brick veneer, stucco, fiber cement siding (such as hardiplank or hardiboard), wood or wood products, stone, rock or other stone materials, and concrete block (not including stucco).

The Census Bureau’s SOC data is available by the nine census divisions. Vinyl siding was the most widely used primary exterior material in 6 out of 9 census division. In the Middle Atlantic and New England region, more than one-third of the new homes started used vinyl siding. The East and North West Central accounted for at least 62 percent while South Atlantic and East South Central accounted for 43 and 22 percent respectively.

Reprinted from The National Association of Home Builders Blog, October 8, 2013, eyeonhousing.wordpress.com.

Hot & Cold: Some helpful hints for the placement of plaster/stucco materials in both hot and cold conditions

Mike Griffin Member at large SMA Board of Directors and chair of One Coat Committee
Reprinted with permission of Walls & Ceilings Magazine.

Weather has a significant effect on the application requirements and nuances of plaster/stucco seasonally, and sometimes daily. Contributing factors are: temperature, humidity, wind and the exposure of the sun.

Every plasterer knows that plaster/stucco sets faster in the summer and slower in the winter. In this article the goal is to offer some helpful hints for the placement of plaster/stucco materials in both hot and cold conditions.

The cement used in plaster/stucco is hydraulic in nature, meaning the water mixed with the plaster is the catalyst for the chemical reaction that makes the material take on its initial set, get hard and subsequently cure. Hot weather poses a few challenges for plaster construction practices. As ambient temperatures rise and materials and equipment heat up during application, moisture evaporates more quickly therefore leaving less water for cement hydration. Losing the water too quickly can result in lower tensile strengths and cracking. ASTM C 926-Specification Standard for Application of Portland Cement Based Plaster requires wetting or fogging the wall between successive coats and for up to several days after the application to aid in the curing process. Heat, wind and humidity all play a big part in the limiting the curing process, and if the wall has not received a sufficient amount of watering and “fogging” during this process, a wall with soft material and excessive cracking may result if the plaster has dried out too quickly.

Hot Weather
Hot weather is defined as ambient temperature exceeding 1.00 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) or 90 degrees F (32.2 degrees C) with a wind velocity greater than 8 mph (1.2.9 km per hour). Compounding factors include low relative humidity and direct sunshine. Below are some of the effects on the plaster:
• Workability is reduced
• More water is required for workability
• Initial and final set occur earlier

The result is that the plasterer can experience difficulty in placing and working the material. In addition to negatively affecting the workability, the rapid increase in drying time can result in a lack of sufficient water or proper hydration of the plaster. Inadequate hydration can result in a lack of strength development and contribute to the plaster cracking. The following techniques should be followed during hot weather installations:
• Schedule construction to avoid hot midday periods.
• Work earlier during the cooler temperatures (“run from the sun”).
• Minimize exposure of materials and equipment to direct sunlight.
• Use cool water to mix.
• Use cool water on shovels and mud boards.
• Control amount of plaster spread so as to not get too far a head of rodding/leveling wall surface
• Moist cure the plaster “fog the wall.”
• Protect the wall from uneven curing or exposure. Draping a tarp over the scaffold to shield the plaster during hot windy days is very effective.

Some other helpful hints for hot weather construction:
• Do not apply plaster/stucco to hot surfaces.
• Use plaster/stucco materials with optimal water retention, workability and consistency. Using a preblended plaster/stucco helps to achieve this and can be custom blended.
• Do not apply cementitious materials at temperatures above 100 degree F (37.8 degrees C) without preparations. Monitor the extended weather forecast during the installation and curing period for severe temperatures.
• Keep materials shaded to reduce temperatures upon installation.

Cold Weather
Plastering when the temperature is at or near freezing causes another set of problems for the contractor or installer. There are precautionary measures that can be taken to protect the project during cold adverse weather conditions. Extra care should be observed if the temperature is nor at least 40 degrees F (4.4 degrees C) and rising, or if the temperature drops below 32 degrees F (0 degrees C) after the wall has been plastered.

The International Building Code for cement plastering requires in Section 2512 that “plaster coats shall be protected from freezing for a period of not less than 24 hours after initial set has occurred. Plaster shall be applied when the ambient temperature is higher than 40 degrees F (4.4 degrees C) unless provisions are made to keep cement plaster work above 40 degrees F (4.4 degrees C) during application and 48 hours thereafter.” Similarly ACT 24, Guide to Cement Plastering, requires that, “Plaster installed when ambient temperatures are below 40 degrees F (4.4 degrees C) must be maintained in a sheltered and heated environment with continued curing to assure cement hydration.” At 32 degrees F (0 degrees C) and below, plaster will freeze on the wall and cause weakening of the plaster. Damage to the plaster can be so severe that you can rub it off the wall by using your hand.

Cold dry air on the surface of the wall can absorb warm moisture from the wall rapidly and can lead to plastic shrinkage cracks. Low temperatures can cause all cement plaster to take longer than normal to set and gain strength which delays floating, troweling and production which raises labor costs unnecessarily. If a wall has been frozen the resulting wall may have excessive porosity which can cause further deterioration during freeze thaw cycles if a driving rain hits it and it freezes. Cold conditions, as such, can also make the wall more susceptible to efflorescence forming on the surface of the wall. To counteract these cold weather problems several precautionary measures can be taken which may involve enclosing and hearing the structure.

When the cooler weather approaches a contractor should plan in advance and budget for enclosing and heating the project if necessary. This will reduce the effect of cold weather on plastering/stucco projects and increase the likelihood of successful project completion in freezing weather. When air temperatures start to fall towards the end of the year, special considerations/precautions need to be given to the installation/application of cement plaster/stucco. The application of cemetitious materials is typically restricted to temperature of 40 degrees F (4.4 degrees C) and rising. This minimum is critical to the proper curing and overall performance of the material. Application of materials in cold and freezing conditions can cause materials to crack, flake, soften and delaminate.

• Hydration of cement based materials is slower at cooler temperature.
• Set times of the material will be slower in cooler temperatures they may freeze or not set up at all.
• Strength development of the material can be reduced.
• Thermal fluctuations will cause movement in the substrate which can produce cracking. Any crack in the substrate including joints between substrate components is subject to movement. Thermal cycling and therefore maximum movement is at its highest frequency during the fall months. Cracks that appear narrow in the warmth of the afternoon (when substrates are expanded) may widen significantly during the night when the temperature falls. This thermal movement can cause surface cracking. (In repair/restoration situations the cracking can be even more severe as the patching material that fills in and around existing material has not developed full strength.)

Some helpful hints:
• Do not apply plaster/stucco to frozen surfaces.
• Do not apply cementitious materials at temperatures below 40 degree Fahrenheit without monitoring weather conditions. Monitor the extended weather forecast during the installation and curing period for severe temperature drops. Keep materials stored at 45 degrees F (7.2 degrees C) or higher if possible.
• Tenting and enclosures may need to be utilized for the proper application under cold conditions to avoid freezing and if they are pay close attention to enclose the entire application area to properly withstand wind and rain.
• Adequate ventilation should be engineered into the enclosure for safety and to provide for proper air movement for curing. Avoid using gas, kerosene or other fossil fuel heaters because they can cause rapid carbonation of cementitious material during initial set and cure.
• The heated enclosed area also needs to have the heat source run long enough before and after the application for proper conditioning and cure times.
• The temperature of the substrate also needs to be taken into consideration. Heating the mixing water up to 120 degrees F (84.4 degrees C) (do not exceed 120) can offset the lower temperatures of the substrate/wall surface and plaster materials themselves. Using a pre-blended plaster/stucco eliminates the need to heat the sand and frozen sand piles.
• Reduce the amount of mixing water to the practical minimum to minimize shrinkage cracking, install sufficient control and expansions joints and properly water cure and retain heat until plaster has reached sufficient strength.

Conclusion
It has been observed that efflorescence is usually a seasonal problem associated with cooler weather. Cooler days and nights seem to bring out salts that are not as evident during warmer periods. The cause behind cold weather efflorescence can be linked to seasonal variations in the evaporation of moisture. Under warmer or hot conditions the rate of evaporation may be very high so that the moisture evaporates within the cladding rather than on the surface. In colder weather, however, evaporation may be very slow allowing moisture to move to the outer surface of the plaster/stucco before it evaporates, leaving the salt deposits on the surface. Following the proper cold weather processes may reduce and/or eliminate some of the efflorescence experienced during the cooler months.

 

HEALTHCARE INSURANCE ISSUES

Employer Responsibility and Information Reporting Requirements Delayed Until 2015

On July 2, 2013, the Treasury Department announced that enforcement of the employer shared responsibility payments of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) will be delayed by one year, until 2015. Compliance with the law’s information reporting provisions will be voluntary for 2014, but strongly encouraged. Formal guidance is expected within the next week.

The Administration said they recognized the information reporting required by insurers, self-insured employers and others providing health coverage is complex so they will try to streamline the requirements over the next few months through discussions with stakeholders. Proposed rules on the reporting requirements are expected to be issued this summer. Without the reporting requirements in place, it would be “impractical to determine which employers owe shared responsibility payments,” according to the post on the Treasury Department’s website.

What This Means
There will be no penalties in 2014 on businesses that don’t meet the requirements of the “employer mandate.” What’s not changing as a result of these delays:

• The Exchanges/Marketplaces
• The individual mandate
• Individuals’ access to premium tax credits
• Any other PPACA provision

Over the past several months, the Administration has been engaging in a dialogue with businesses – many of which already provide health coverage for their workers – about the new employer and insurer reporting requirements under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). We have heard concerns about the complexity of the requirements and the need for more time to implement them effectively. We recognize that the vast majority of businesses that will need to do this reporting already provide health insurance to their workers, and we want to make sure it is easy for others to do so. We have listened to your feedback. And we are taking action.

Health Care Information
The Administration is announcing that it will provide an additional year before the ACA mandatory employer and insurer reporting requirements begin. This is designed to meet two goals. First, it will allow us to consider ways to simplify the new reporting requirements consistent with the law. Second, it will provide time to adapt health coverage and reporting systems while employers are moving toward making health coverage affordable and accessible for their employees. Within the next week, we will publish formal guidance describing this transition. Just like the Administration’s effort to turn the initial 21-page application for health insurance into a three-page application, we are working hard to adapt and to be flexible about reporting requirements as we implement the law.

Here is some additional detail. The ACA includes information reporting (under section 6055) by insurers, self-insuring employers, and other parties that provide health coverage. It also requires information reporting (under section 6056) by certain employers with respect to the health coverage offered to their full-time employees. We expect to publish proposed rules implementing these provisions this summer, after a dialogue with stakeholders – including those responsible employers that already provide their full-time work force with coverage far exceeding the minimum employer shared responsibility requirements – in an effort to minimize the reporting, consistent with effective implementation of the law.

Once these rules have been issued, the Administration will work with employers, insurers, and other reporting entities to strongly encourage them to voluntarily implement this information reporting in 2014, in preparation for the full application of the provisions in 2015. Real-world testing of reporting systems in 2014 will contribute to a smoother transition to full implementation in 2015.

We recognize that this transition relief will make it impractical to determine which employers owe shared responsibility payments (under section 4980H) for 2014. Accordingly, we are extending this transition relief to the employer shared responsibility payments. These payments will not apply for 2014. Any employer shared responsibility payments will not apply until 2015.

During this 2014 transition period, we strongly encourage employers to maintain or expand health coverage. Also, our actions today do not affect employees’ access to the premium tax credits available under the ACA (nor any other provision of the ACA).

IRS Provides Health Care Information Reporting Transition Relief

Rick Montgomery, JD Senior Legal Editor for ThinkHR Corporation

Last week, the Obama administration announced a one-year delay in the effective dates of three key provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA):

1. The annual information reporting requirements applicable to insurers, self-insuring employers and certain other providers of minimum essential coverage,
2. The annual information reporting requirements applicable to large employers (i.e., those with 50 or more full-time equivalent employees); and
3. The employer shared responsibility provisions.

These provisions of the ACA will now go into effect in 2015.

On July 9, 2013, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released Notice 2013-45 which provides transition relief for the above requirements. The IRS guidance is mainly composed of a series of questions and answers (Qs&As) regarding the information reporting requirements.

What does this really mean? The ACA information reporting requirements are extremely complicated. The transition relief simply gives employers and other reporting entities more time to provide the IRS with input on how to simplify the information reporting requirements. It also is intended to provide employers, insurers, and other providers of minimum essential coverage time to adapt their health coverage and reporting systems.

By encouraging employers and other entities to voluntarily comply with the upcoming rules in 2014, the IRS will have the ability to address problems before the provisions go into effect in 2015.

The Impact: Here’s what we know from the guidance:

• Proposed rules regarding the information reporting requirements will be released later this summer.
• Once the rules are released, the IRS is encouraging employers to voluntarily comply with the information reporting requirements and to maintain or expand health coverage in 2014 in preparation for the full application of the provisions in 2015. Note however, that such compliance is not required for 2014 and the IRS may not penalize employers that do not comply.
• The transition relief does not impact other ACA requirements (e.g., the requirements to provide employees with Marketplace Notices and Summaries of Benefits and Coverage (SBCs)).
• The delay of the shared responsibility penalties will not prevent qualified individuals from obtaining subsidies through the exchanges.

In summary, while “large” employers have generally welcomed the delay in the implementation of the employer shared responsibility and information reporting rules, all employers should use this time to focus on ensuring compliance with the other aspects of ACA that will be implemented in the upcoming months as well as preparing for the implementation of the key items discussed above in 2015. Additionally, this announced delay does not affect small employer plans. See more at: http://blog.thinkhr.com/irs-provides-health-care-information-reporting-transition-relief/#sthash.gkdLWbwa.dpuf

Open Enrollment Communication Checklist for Plan Sponsors

Dave Villar Pacific Coast Benefits Insurance Services

SMA affiliate member Pacific Coast Benefits Insurance Services, in Northern California, analyzes the Affordable Care Act in their “Executive Perspectives’ September newsletter. A quick overview of three articles is provided here, with link to the full newsletter below.

• Open Enrollment Communication Checklist for Plan Sponsors
  With key pieces of health care reform going into effect in 2014, US plan sponsors have even more to consider this year as they prepare for their annual health benefits open enrollment.
• As October 1 Nears, 7 out of 10 Employers Have Yet to Communicate Employee Benefits Changes
  Open enrollment in the new era of employee health benefits is almost upon us and employers may have a problem. Although the majority of employers indicate they are concerned health care reform may bring about challenges surrounding insurance coverage gaps and costs to employees, a large number of American workers remain unaware, confused and unprepared for looming changes to their benefits coverage.
• Survey Examines Financial Impact of ACA on Employers
  A new survey found that more than two-thirds of employers currently providing health benefits (69%) have analyzed how the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will affect their health care plan costs. Additionally, of those who conducted a cost analysis, half (50.2%) were able to pinpoint the cost change in 2013 due to the ACA.

Link here to the full newsletter.

For additional information, contact Dave Villar, 408 847 1000 or dave@pacbenins.com.

Video Series by EPIC on Healthcare Reform

This revised video on “Understanding Healthcare Reform” reflects changes recently made by the Treasury Department to delay the effective date for the Employer Shared Responsibility Requirements (“Pay or Play”) under the Affordability Care Act (ACA) until 2015. We certainly want to keep you up to date with governmental and legislative changes and this is one example of our commitment to do just that.

This video covers the complex topic of healthcare reform in very simple and straightforward terms that everyone can understand. This, and the other videos in the series, were created to demonstrate EPIC’s unique capability to support deeper employee understanding and engagement in important healthcare and wellness topics.

We’d be delighted to talk with your further about this video series and the other tools and resources EPIC can provide to help you and your organization get ready for the new ACA-governed health care world.

Click this link to view “Understanding Healthcare Reform” http://app.guidespark.com/epic/curriculum/489 as well as “Benefits Consumerism” – the first video in our series.

Thanks for watching! And please keep an eye out for our third video in the series on “Wellness Behaviors” coming soon.

EPIC Edgewood Partners Insurance Center, located in Southern California, is an affiliate member of SMA. For additional information, contact Todd Holliday, 949 417 9151 direct or www.edgewoodins.com.

 

PRESS RELEASES FROM OUR MEMBERS

Rustfree Ultra-Lath® Now Comes PAPER-BACKED!

Plastic Components’ Ultra-Lath® plastic lath is better, and easy to use than metal. It’s rustproof and easy on the hands. And now, it comes backed with asphalt-impregnated paper for superior moisture control and added labor-savings.

Self-furred, paper-backed Ultra-Lath PB greatly improves the keying of stucco/plaster and embeds the lath into the surface. Combining the paper and lath applications into one process saves installers even more time, and eliminates upside down lath installation.

• For vertical, exterior walls requiring moisture-resistance and vapor control
• Won’t affect cellphone or wireless transmissions
• Compatible with cement-based products
• 27″ x 96″ sheets

Contact Herman Guevara, Director of Worldwide Sales at Plastic Components, Inc. for additional information. Phone: 800 327 7077 Email: info@plasticomponents.com Web: www.plasticomponents.com.

Plastic Components Introduces RADii™ Trim System

Plastic Components’ new RADii™ trims offer the simple, convenient, efficient way to finish a suspended ceiling which terminates at a curved wall or surface.

Perfect for outside and inside radius treatments – including compound or S-shapes, these trims eliminate expensive add-ons like extruded metal column rings, radius revel moldings and wall angles.

• Non-rusting PVC
• Minimum radius: 15″, 24″, 30″ and 54″

Contact Herman Guevara, Director of Worldwide Sales at Plastic Components, Inc. for additional information. Phone: 800 327 7077 Email: info@plasticomponents.com Web: www.plasticomponents.com.

Rustproof Trims for Fiber Cement Board…New from Plastic Components

Plastic Components’ new Fiber Cement Board Trims deliver a better finish and cleaner, rustproof job in projects with 5/16″ or 1/2″ cementitious fiber board.

We offer a weeped casing bead and STARTER TRAC™, Z flashing and inside/outside corner for each board thicknesses. These impact-resistant trims protect the edges of the board and manage moisture infiltration.

• Listed by ITS/Warnock-Hersey

Contact Herman Guevara, Director of Worldwide Sales at Plastic Components, Inc. for additional information. Phone: 800 327 7077 Email: info@plasticomponents.com Web: www.plasticomponents.com.

Merkrete Introduces Progrout — New High Performance Premium Grout Offers Color Consistency and More

Parex USA, Inc., the parent company of leading building material brands; Merkrete, Parex, Teifs, LaHabra and El Rey, announced the launch of Merkrete ProGrout, a premium performance grout.

ProGrout is a “high performance” premium, fast setting, polymer-modified, color consistent and efflorescence free grout. It has been specifically formulated for grouting all types of ceramic and dimensional stone tiles on walls and floors when grout joint widths are 1/16″ to 1/2″ wide. ProGrout eliminates the need for sanded and non-sanded grouts.

Advantages of ProGrout include:

• Color Consistency
• Non-Efflorescence
• Fast Setting
• No Shading
• No Blotchiness

“ProGrout is our high end solution for all types of grouting projects,” said Luciano Tavares, Brand Manager for Merkrete. “Color consistency all the way through the joints had been a concern for our end users, so we designed ProGrout with this in mind.”

Now, with the addition of ProGrout, Merkrete brings customers a full range of solutions such as Versatile, Epoxies and Caulking to the market. For over forty years, Merkrete has been dedicated to providing architects, contractors and building owners with the most uniquely diversified and innovative product line in the industry. Merkrete has successfully supplied the building industry with over one billion square feet of tile and stone installation systems backed by our extended warranty programs. From surface preparation and waterproofing, to a complete line of tile installation systems, Merkrete makes it all possible. For more information, please visit www.merkrete.com.

For more information regarding Parex USA, Inc. visit www.parexusa.com.

Merlex Introduces a Continuous Foam Insulation System: Insulex

In compliance with the Title 24 requirements:

• Available sanded or in concentrate form, to be mixed with sand on the job
• Allows for accelerated job scheduling due to reduced wait time between plaster base coats
• Contains 10% post-industrial recycled content
• Optional recycled aggregate for 33% recycled content and LEED credit
• Available One-hour Fire Rating with specified assemblies in ICC ESR-1607 report
• Economical and low-maintenance
• May be used over a variety of substrates, giving architects and builders design flexibility
• May be trowel- or spray-applied

For additional information, contact Merlex, 714 637 1700 or visit www.merlex.com.

Omega Products International Announces Re-release of Travertino

Omega Products International proudly announces the re-release of Travertino finish. Travertino is a cementitious interior/exterior finish designed to achieve a variety of sedimentary stone appearances, such as travertine, limestone, and sandstone. Travertino can create a pitted look like that of classic Tuscan stone or can be troweled/ground to achieve a smooth stone appearance. Designs can also be carved into Travertino during application, and it can be used to cast special shapes or as a coating over architectural foam shapes. Travertino is an excellent choice to create a beautiful, warm sedimentary stone appearance with a lower cost, lower weight and shorter lead time than real stone.

For additional information, contact Omega Products International, Inc., 951 737 7447 office or visit www.omega-products.com.

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

The Tipping Point for New Homes Over Existing
Nick Brown, Merlex

Used to be homebuilders found buyers who wanted the new-car smell of a new home with community parks and the ability to customize features, like an inlaw suite or home office or granite countertops. Today’ís homebuilder has more advantages over existing housing stock than ever before, as I learned from a seminar I attended of the American Society of Building Designers.

We have reached the tipping point where existing homes should not be able to compete with a new home. Think of all these features possible with new homes that existing homes can’t touch:

• No gas and electric bills (Zero Net Energy)
• Luxurious comfort from even heat distribution, elimination of harmful chemicals
• Proper site orientation and shading to allow sunlight in where and when it’s needed
• Open floor plans
• No moisture problems from a new, well-designed building envelope
• Community amenities made famous by The Irvine Company, such as parks, pools, and new schools
• Pleasing planned communities with open spaces, designed to encourage social interaction
• Home automation for the technophile buyers

Existing homes may have a few advantages of their own — locations closer in to jobs and fire-sale prices for the moment. But as Sam Rashkin demonstrated in his passionate blueprint for the building industry, the ownership cost of a new home, after taking into account reduced utility bills and maintenance expenses, is surely lower than that of even a short-sold existing home. Sam is head of the U.S. EPA’s energy efficiency program called Energy Star for Homes, and has contributed to USGBC, NAHB, and DoE programs with energy efficiency goals. Sam made an impassioned case for the homebuilding industry to seize the moment, elevate their craft, and permanently leave existing housing stock in the dust.

There is much work to be done. Many homebuilders are still focused largely on getting low bids and trying to sell directly against these distressed existing homes. As a result, there is pressure on subcontractors not to innovate, but to focus mainly on keeping costs low. And material manufacturers feel that pressure as tight margins, commoditization of our products, and more tough times ahead.

But there are good signs if you look hard enough. Several major homebuilders in the Greater LA area (Meritage, Woodside, KB) are using continuous insulation stucco systems on all their projects, and highlighting that feature in selling their homes. Of course, these “one coat stucco” systems have been in use in other markets for decades, but Title 24 and the demand for “greener” homes have driven their adoption in Southern California in recent years. California’s Title 24 energy code ratchets up the energy efficiency mandate on homes in 2014, with additional code cycles set to take effect in 2017 and 2020. By 2020, California’s Title 24 will likely mandate Zero Net Energy home performance. Forward-thinking homebuilders will get there sooner and establish their brands as synonymous with energy-efficiency, much as Volvo has with car safety. As stucco manufacturers and allied companies, the challenge for us is to provide products and technical assistance to encourage this metamorphosis of our industry.

As the homebuilders go, so go our businesses. If we can help builders seize this opportunity now, when we’re at the tipping point, we can strengthen our industry, decommoditize our products, and gain some competitive advantage for our own companies.

Sam Rashkin’ís book is titled Retooling the U.S. Housing Industry, and is a great place to start this process for your company.

 

Lath & Plaster Committee

The Lath & Plaster committee is off to a great start. SMA took the last quarter of 2012 to develop this committee, create marketing materials, revise old bylaws and bring them current, and at the same time expanded bylaws to incorporate the Lath & Plaster folks into the SMA.

Our new and very expanded benefits of both SMA and Lath & Plaster follow below. Any L&P company will benefit widely from joining. Networking, topics of great interest at our meetings, various benefits such as insurance, legal, HR, environmental services at member rates — and in some cases initial consultations are at no cost. See below all the new benefits of the SMA.

We encourage you to attend a meeting and see what we are about. Please remember, as a non-member you may only attend 2x in a year. It is to your benefit to become a member of SMA or the Lath & Plaster Committee of SMA.
Please view/download the following [.pdf] flyers describing the Benefits of Membership in the Stucco Manufacturers Association and the Lath & Plaster Committee:

• About Us
• Knowledge Is Power
• OSHA Compliance
• Human Resources Management
• Member Insurance Options
• Environmental Consulting
• Legal Representation
• SMA Benefits of Membership Brochure and Application
• Lath & Plaster Committee Benefits of Membership Brochure and Application

Executive Director’s Report

Norma S. Fox, Executive Director

SMA is off to a very good year. We welcomed two new members to the Board of Directors — Jim Oberdank of Res Wall who is chairing our Lath & Plaster Committee and Buck Buchanan of ParexUSA, Inc. Both of these gentlemen bring years of industry experience and ideas that will move SMA to the next level. I am very excited about that. By bringing the Lath & Plaster folks on board and working toward building a committee structure for the board of directors, we will operate at the next level.

SMA will miss Ted Jones on our board of directors. Ted gave 100% of himself to make SMA what it is. He has either been in charge of projects or worked with others in creating many of our Technical Papers and DVDs. I personally will miss Ted and wish him all the very best in his partial retirement. He has worked hard enough and deserves it. Now Ted and his wife can put the top down on the car and see the country.

Now that we have many more benefits to offer to all members, we have started a membership drive to increase our numbers in all categories of membership. If you would like one of our new Benefits brochures, please let me know and I will mail it to you. The actual inside pages are in this newsletter for you to see sooner. We have three remaining excellent meetings planned for this year and hope both potential members and current members attend. Can’t beat the food at Antonello’s for lunch.

Mark September 19 on your calendars for our first SMA golf tournament. We will tee off at noon at Strawberry Farms in Irvine, CA. We expect a full house for the tournament with excellent raffle items. Check our ‘Calendar & Events’ page for sponsorship opportunities and additional details.

SMA Releases New Video on YouTube!

SMA releases first of many YouTube videos on Crack Prevention Systems. View this video to see ways to cut cracking of exterior stucco by 90%. The video runs for seven minutes where you will see ways to eliminate future cracks. Base coats are designed for flexibility and bridging small cracking in brown coat. Polymers are a key ingredient, less brittle with more flexibility. Thicker mesh can also be used for more crack and impact resistance, although it requires a thicker base coat. Side benefits of base and mesh include flatter wall, increased water resistance, even suction to minimize color variation in finish coat. Base and mesh also can be used to recolor existing stucco. Proper execution of lath, scratch, and brown also help minimize cracking. This system is ideal for smooth finishes, but also helps with textured cement finishes, acrylic finishes, and lime finishes. Click the image in the right sidebar to view on SMA’s YouTube channel.

 

Feature Articles

Cal/OSHA Heat Regulations – Sec. 3395

John McCoy, Quality Wall Systems DBA Residential Wall Systems

Cal/OSHA is reminding all employers to protect their outdoor workers from the risk of heat illness, as temperatures in the Central Valley and parts of Southern California have recently been in the 90s and summer temps are just around the corner.

Cal/OSHA takes a comprehensive approach to preventing heat illness among outdoor workers, with an award-winning heat illness prevention campaign that includes enforcement of heat regulations as well as outreach and training for California’s employers and workers. “Heat illness can easily be prevented,” says Cal/OSHA Chief Ellen Widess. “What’s essential is access to adequate water, rest and shade, training for workers and supervisors on the signs and symptoms of heat illness, and ensuring emergency response procedures are in place in case of a medical emergency.”

California’s heat regulation (sec. 3395) requires all employers with outdoor workers take basic steps to protect outdoor workers including:

• Train all employees and supervisors about heat illness prevention.
• Provide plenty of cool, fresh potable water and encourage employees to drink water frequently.
• Provide a shaded area for workers to take a cool down recovery break(s).
• Ensure that workers are given enough time to get used to the heat, or “acclimatize” (adjust) to the heat. This is especially important for new workers — and always during a sudden spike in temperatures — and can mean the difference between life and death.
• Prepare an emergency heat illness prevention plan for the worksite, with training for supervisors and workers on the steps to take if a worker shows signs or symptoms of heat illness.

Special “High Heat” procedures are also required when temperatures reach 95 degrees and workers are at greater risk. At these times, supervisors must take extra precautions:

• Observe workers for signs and symptoms of heat illness.
• Remind workers to drink water frequently.
• Provide close supervision (monitor) of workers in the first 14 days of their employment (to ensure acclimatization).

It is important to remember that every worker is a unique individual and will react differently to heat depending on age, health, medications, type of work, exposure and degree of heat. 80 degrees F can be high heat for some while other individuals and body types may not experience high heat until 90 degrees F or more.

Cal/OSHA consultation will conduct free worksite inspections in outdoor industries such as construction-especially in heat season. A Heat Illness Prevention e-tool is available on Cal/OSHA’s website (http://www.dir.ca.gov/DOSH/HeatIllnessInfo.html). Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Program provides free and voluntary assistance to employers and employee organizations to improve their health and safety programs. For assistance from the Cal/OSHA Consultation Program, employers can call (800) 963-9424.

Significant New California Construction Indemnity Law Changes

With respect to most private and public works construction subcontracts entered into on or after January 1, 2013, changes to existing laws (Civil Code ß 2782) and a new law (Civil Code ß 2782.05) will limit contractual indemnity provided by subcontractors to general contractors, construction managers and other subcontractors.

In general, the new laws prohibit requiring subcontractors to indemnify most parties to the extent that claims:

1. arise out of the active negligence, sole negligence or willful misconduct of general contractors, construction managers and other subcontractors;
2. are for defects in designs furnished by those persons; or
3. do not arise out of the scope of work of the subcontract.

These changes do not apply to residential projects, which have other rules and limitations on indemnification agreements. Many construction contracts will need to be revised as a result of these changes in the law.

The Un-comfort Zone

Robert Wilson, Author/Speaker/Innovation Consultant

What motivates you? That’s the question I’d like to ask in this inaugural column on motivation. Are you motivated by fame, fortune or fear. Or is it something deeper that fans the flames inside of you. Perhaps you are like Jeanne Louise Calment whose burning desire enabled her to do something that no other human being has done before. A feat so spectacular that it generated headlines around the globe, got her a role in a motion picture, and landed her in the Guinness Book of World Records. A record that has yet to be beaten.

Jeanne Louise, however, did not initially motivate herself. It was someone else who drew the line in the sand. But, it became a line she was determined to cross.

In motivation we talk about getting outside of one’s comfort zone.
It is only when we are uncomfortable that we begin to get motivated.
Usually to get back into our comfort zone as quickly as possible.

Born into the family of a middle-class store owner, Calment was firmly entrenched in her comfort zone. At age 21 she married a wealthy store owner and lived a life of leisure. She pursued her hobbies of tennis, the opera, and sampling France’s famous wines. Over the years she met Impressionist painter Van Gogh; watched the erection of the Eiffel Tower; and attended the funeral of Hunchback of Notre Dame, author, Victor Hugo.

Twenty years after her husband passed away, she had reached a stage in life where she had pretty much achieved everything that she was going to achieve. Then along came a lawyer. The lawyer made Jeanne Louise a proposition. She accepted it. He thought he was simply making a smart business deal. Inadvertently he gave her a goal. It took her 30 years to achieve it, but achieve it she did.

Are you willing to keep your goals alive for 30 years? At what point do you give up? Thomas Edison never gave up, instead he said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Winston Churchill during the bleakest hours of World War II kept an entire country motivated with this die-hard conviction: “We shall defend our Island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches… in the fields and in the streets… we shall never surrender.”

Many of us give up too soon because we set limits on our goals. Achieving a goal begins with determination. Then it’s just a matter of our giving them attention and energy.

When Jeanne Louise was 92 years old, attorney Francois Raffray, age 47, offered to pay her 500 per month (a fortune in 1967) for the rest of her life, if she would leave her house to him in her will. According to the actuarial tables it was a great deal. Here was an heir-less woman who had survived her husband, children, and grandchildren. A woman who was just biding her time with nothing to live for. That is until Raffray came along and offered up the “sucker-bet” that she would soon die. It was motivation enough for Jeanne, who was determined to beat the lawyer. Thirty years later, Raffray became the “sucker” when he passed away first at age 77.

When asked about this by the press, Calment simply said, “In life, one sometimes makes bad deals.” Having met her goal, Jeanne passed away five months later. But on her way to this end, she achieved something else: at 122 years old, she became the oldest person to have ever lived.

Robert Evans Wilson, Jr. is an author, speaker/humorist, and innovation consultant. He works with companies that want to be more competitive and with people who want to think like innovators. Robert is also the author of the humorous children’s book: The Annoying Ghost Kid. For more information on Robert, please visit www.jumpstartyourmeeting.com.

Member News – Merlex Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Merlex Stucco, the leading manufacturer in stucco and waterproofing products in Orange, CA, is celebrating 50 years in business this year.

Merlex Stucco is a small, family owned and operated business built from the Midwestern tenacity of its founder, Merle VerBurg, who opened its door in 1963 taking over the historic Olive Hillside Groves packing plant that built the brick building in 1928 after the original wooden structure was built in 1914 and burned down in 1927. In 1992, Merle passed away after suffering from ALS, and his daughter Susan VerBurg, took over the company and has carried on his legacy ever since.

Even though sales have doubled, the staff has increased, new products have been formulated, and Vero, a subsidiary of Merlex offering high-end Venetian plaster products, which opened in 2001 under Susan VerBurg’s leadership, she credits the company’s foundation, reputation, and work ethic to her father.

With our dedicated staff of knowledgeable employees, Merlex offers the finest stucco products, paired with superior service and reliable, on-time delivery. We believe that a small business serves its customer better than larger competitors because we all meet directly with our customers and arenít hidden away in a multi-layered corporate structure. We hear about your problems, what’s working and what’s not, and we get to know our customers better. We tailor our service to you, the customer, so that we are sure we meet your needs with the best possible products and prompt, value-added support.

At Merlex, sustainability is more than an industry trend; it’s a shared passion. We see it as an energizing challenge ñ to create new products that make better use of natural resources and improve the built environment. You’ll see this focus in our products, and you’ll hear it from our sales representatives. We are well-informed about green building programs and regulations, and we are excited to apply our knowledge to your project.
Having been a child of the Depression and a World War II prisoner of war, Merle VerBurg was thrifty, hard-working and a stickler for quality products and customer service. To this day, Merlex continues to perfect its color matching and customer service with the recent addition of a new waiting lounge showcasing products, samples, and even some historical memorabilia. Merlex has been part of the community for so many years and has been an integral part of the area’s growth, including donating its time to Olive Elementary’s tutoring program and nurturing relationships with the citizens of Olive as well as the surrounding businesses.

The anniversary celebration will take place on Thursday, March 21 from 11:30am – 6pm, and will include plant tours, food truck, giveaways, and more.

Jerry Pozo Leads a Double Life

Jerry Pozo of BMI Products in Milpitas, CA, has a double life. Jerry is an expert on exterior plaster systems, but you may not be aware that Jerry has a second identity — as the Reverend Peter Y. Cool, a circuit-riding “Saddlebag” preacher of the California gold rush era.

After moving to gold country, Jerry became curious about the origins and improbable name of his small town, Cool. After some research he learned about its namesake. Since then, Jerry has been re-enacting Rev. Cool at James Marshall Gold Discovery Historic Park in Coloma and at a variety of regional events. He is a member of the Auburn Parlor of the Native Sons of the Golden West, which stages these re-enactments.