The erection of low-rise buildings from the "bricks" of this artificial stone because of its cheapness is considered one of the most budgetary solutions to any housing or economic problem. But this is not entirely true, because unlike many other building materials, foam concrete has significant drawbacks - an unpresentable appearance and a porous structure. Therefore, the exterior decoration of the house from the foam blocks is an obligatory stage of construction work, for whatever purposes it was intended.
But how is it done and how to make it so that the total costs do not grow very much? This issue requires a substantive consideration. Consider the most popular, inexpensive and well-proven options for finishing.
- Staining.
- Coating( plastering).
- Facing.
What to take into account
Regardless of the chosen method of exterior design, care should be taken to ensure that the effective permeability of walls is ensured. This is what determines the choice of materials, and the technology of production. In addition, the quality of the waterproofing is also important, since the foam concrete still partially absorbs liquids, although not as intensively as its close "relative" - gas silicate.
It is not worthwhile to dwell in detail on all technological operations for exterior cladding of surfaces, as this is the topic of another article. But by what criteria should you choose wall and other materials, what nuances of design should pay attention - this is worth considering in detail.
Paints
The only acceptable option( if, of course, take care of quality and durability) - silicone compounds. Such paints are on sale relatively recently, and have a wide range of applications. About their advantages, you can find the most comprehensive information on many sites. But what are they good for foam concrete?
- Hydrophobicity. This means, speaking in a somewhat simplistic way, that no matter how much rain is pounding on the walls of the house, not a single drop of liquid through the layer of paintwork will penetrate. That is, silicone compounds simultaneously make colored foam concrete attractive and provide sufficient waterproofing of this material.
- Water vapor permeability. Consequently, an artificial stone can "breathe".And this is one of the main requirements when laying surfaces from foam concrete.
- Resistant to aggressive chemical compounds. In our times, "acid" and "alkaline" rain, unfortunately, is no longer a rarity.
Plaster compositions
All such mixtures( solutions) after hardening form a layer that "breathes".But to increase the period of its maintenance-free operation, it is necessary to produce reinforcement. For this, grids are used, which are fixed on the foam concrete. The cost of such finishing is not high, so it is quite an acceptable option.
But we are not talking about panels that mimic decorative plaster. They are not vapor permeable, so their sticker for foam concrete is clearly not the best solution.
Facade shingles
Quite a quick way of finishing, which is not very difficult. During the preparation of the solution, a corresponding dye is introduced into it, so the house can be "decorated" as you like. Of course, this technology is for the amateur, but in terms of maintainability - an excellent option.
Facing materials
Regardless of what will be bought, you should take into account:
- between the cover layer and foam concrete should leave a small gap. This natural ventilation compensates for the absence of vapor permeability of the finishing material;
- small weight samples. The porosity of foam concrete is practically synonymous with the notion of "insufficient strength"( looseness).This explains the difficulty of fixing the fastener elements in this artificial stone.
Taking into account the second factor, the choice of the most suitable materials for wall finishing is somewhat limited. For example, it is hardly advisable to mount widely advertised fiber-cement wall panels. Even if it is possible to reliably fix the supporting frame, during operation( for example, from gusts of wind), it will gradually loosen up taking into account the total mass of the cladding material. Whatever the hired masters say about the high quality of fixing the crate, it's better not to take chances.
What to choose
- Cover the walls with a heater( for example, a mineral wool) and put a brick in 1 row. There are also such recommendations. But this method of finishing is called budgetary rather difficult. Even without taking into account the cost of bricks, additional reinforcement of the foundation will be needed, and this again means spending.
- Panels. The assortment is quite large. But if you take into account their cost, then the best option - products made of PVC( plastic siding).There are many advantages: quick installation( you can do it yourself, read how), light weight, almost no maintenance( it is easy to clean if necessary), and so on. In combination with foam concrete - one of the cheapest combinations.
Consumables
Mesh for reinforcing .It is desirable plastic, given the small thickness of the plaster layer. Choosing from the whole assortment, one should give preference to the material stable before alkalis.
Carrier frame rails .Use samples of wood is undesirable. Such rails are quite heavy in themselves, plus they are gradually and damp, which will only increase their mass. For a lathing with fastening on foam concrete it is better to get a profile aluminum.
Fasteners .It's understandable that self-tapping screws will be needed for the carcass plating. But how to attach it to the base, if it is necessary to provide a clearance for ventilation, and fixing the bars directly on the wall is impossible? The same applies to masonry, if it is decided to finish it to her. For these purposes, use spiral nails basalt-plastic connections.
In principle, all the most simple and applicable options for exterior finishing of foam concrete are considered. And on what to stop the choice - at your discretion, dear reader.
