LIMESTONE STUCCO

SUSTRATE PREPARATION

The limestone stucco should be applied on robust, durable and even substrates, which are clean, dry and free from dust, grease and other substances reducing adhesion. Prior to application, a well-dried and seasoned substrate should be primed using the Francesco GUARDI latex primer paint in the case of indoor applications, and the GUARDI deco primer in the case of outdoor applications. Fresh cement and cement/lime renders should be primed after approx. 4 weeks, while gypsum renders – approx. 2 weeks after application. Gypsum finishing coats and surfaces made of drywall must be dedusted and then primed, e.g. using the Akryl G. It is important to make sure that the surface does not leave any white dust when rubbed by hand. If necessary, use the Akryl G primer twice, and then apply the Francesco GUARDI primer after an appropriate period. Areas contaminated with mould or fungi should be cleaned mechanically and disinfected using the Biotox Total algicide and fungicide. 

The stucco can be applied after the priming layer has dried, i.e. approx. 6 hours after completion of painting if optimum drying conditions were provided (temperature +200C, humidity of 60%). The better prepared the substrate is, the better the final results will be.

APPLICATION METOD

Once the primed surface has dried, use an INOX Venetian float to apply the first layer of stucco of uniform thickness, ensuring that a smooth surface is obtained. This activity should be performed over small areas and in different directions in order to cover the entire surface. After at least six hours, the second layer should be applied in small portions. Excess product should be removed by sliding a clean edge of the float over the surface. After the second layer has dried (which takes at least 6 hours), apply the third and thinnest layer, levelling and smoothing it “flat”. While the third layer is drying, i.e. after approx. 10 minutes from application, “add gloss” to the stucco by running a sharp edge of the float over the surface of the stucco several times. Once the gloss has been achieved, it is important to keep the float’s edges in perfect cleanliness. For additional protection and deeper colour, apply the Francesco GUARDI Wax after approx. 7 days. A small amount of the wax should be applied to the float’s edge and evenly distributed in a thin layer over an area of approx. 0.5 m2. Next, the surface must be polished with a soft fabric, e.g. flannel, or using a car polisher. After application, the wax adds sheen and darkens the colour. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Francesco GUARDI Limestone Stucco should be applied at substrate and ambient temperatures of +5oC to +25oC, avoiding direct sunlight to the area being coated, during both the application and drying of the stucco. In the case of outdoor applications, freshly-applied stucco should be protected against rain for 2–3 days after application. The alternating light and dark hues of the Limestone Stucco are characteristic for this product and do not constitute a qualitative defect. It is not recommended to apply the stucco on substrates made of pressed cement. Before applying the wax over the whole surface, it is recommended that it should be tried on a small area first.