Vermiculite coatings have a whole bunch of amazing qualities, making them one very popular material in construction. Like with most things, however, vermiculite isn’t just ‘set and forget’: you have to actively maintain vermiculite every once in a while so that its integrity is kept in shape, protecting your building or infrastructure.
How should you maintain the integrity of your vermiculite coatings?
There are a few ways that vermiculite coatings should be maintained by a professional. These include:
- Repairing cracks
Most paint coatings will experience cracks every now and then, but it’s particularly important to repair cracks in vermiculite – especially if it’s been used for its fire-resistant qualities in a high fire-risk area. Cracks in your vermiculite can compromise the flame retardant ability of your building. - Fixing water-damaged areas
Vermiculite walls and ceilings in residential buildings can fall victim to water damage when pipes leak. Make sure that you get an inspection from a professional in vermiculite repairs if you suspect this has happened to you. Again, water-damaged areas can compromise the fire-resistance of your vermiculite. - Applying fresh layers of vermiculite coatings
It’s also a great idea to hire a professional for a repaint if your vermiculite hasn’t been recoated in a while. Not only will your building look brighter and better, but a recoat also ensures that you’re fully prepared in the event of a fire.
Why maintain your vermiculite coatings?
- Ensure fire-resistance
Vermiculite is an incredibly fire-resistant material. It’s often used on high heat machinery like pipes and head gaskets in order for them to withstand temperatures of up to 1000 degrees Celsius! Using vermiculite on your walls and ceilings is a great way to make your building as fire-safe as possible. - Increase insulation
Along with fire-resistant qualities, vermiculite also has insulation benefits. In construction, vermiculite is often used in besa-brick or double brick buildings to help insulate them. This keeps your residential or commercial property cool in summer and warm in winter, meaning you won’t have to use extensive temperature control in your building as it’s already effective in keeping the building at a consistent temperature. - Increase acoustic qualities
Vermiculite is great at absorbing sound which is why it’s often used for its acoustic purposes. Whether you want a university lecture theatre to have crystal clear sound or a professional recording studio to deliver the best results, you’ll often find that vermiculite is used for its ability to absorb sound and minimise echo.
Who to call for vermiculite applications and repairs
Stywill Texture Coating are specialists in vermiculite applications and repairs. They’ve worked on countless vermiculite application jobs in the Sydney basin area, including schools and houses. They were even contracted to install vermiculite at the Port Macquarie Base Hospital. Vermiculite repairs are another speciality for Stywill Texture Coating, offering resprays and repairs on vermiculite ceilings across the city.
