Have Questions? We’ve Got the Answers.
What does Envi Roofing and Exteriors Ltd. do?
Thank you for asking! Envi Roofing and Exteriors Ltd. provides contracting services, as well as products such as stone-coated metal roofing systems and Envi cultured stone.
Is it possible to buy your products without the services, or vice versa?
Absolutely! Simply use our online contact form, call, or send us an email to let us know how we can help you.
How are your products less expensive than your competitors’?
Simply put: We cut out the “middle man” and offer our roof and stone products directly to the consumer.
Stones
What are some of the differences between manufactured stone veneer and natural stone?
In our Stones page, we have a great write-up on the various differences between manufactured stone veneers and natural stone. One of the most notable features is the weight and the cost.
To summarize, our Envi Stones use real stones to create a mould. These moulds are then used to manufacture a less expensive alternative using lava rock, concrete, iron oxide colouring agents, and other lightweight materials. Essentially, we are creating a lighter rock using mostly natural elements.
Due to the weight of natural stone, some structural engineering can be required, such as wall ties and footings. These added structural elements can increase the total cost and difficulty of the installation. Since our Envi Stone is lighter, it can be adhered to most structurally-sound surfaces. And, Envi Stone can be installed in ways that would be very difficult to do using natural stone.
What are some of the benefits of using manufactured stone?
The cost is a big factor. Envi Stone is approximately 33% to 50% less than the cost of quarrying, purchasing, and installing natural stone. And, its light weight removes the need for wall ties and footings. There is less product waste too. Manufactured stone has a 2% (approximately) waste factor versus 10% or more for natural stone.
How does Envi Stone withstand Calgary's freeze and thaw cycles?
Envi Stone products are tested for their durability against freezing and thawing. As with any installation, making sure to incorporate good building practices that include proper flashing and water diversion techniques will help ensure a successful installation.
Will Envi Stone fade?
The base colour is blended throughout and permanent mineral oxide pigments are applied and absorbed when the veneer is cast. Colour becomes an integral part of the veneer and, similar to natural stone, there are minimal noticeable colour changes after years of weathering.
How important is a good stone installation?
As with any building material, the beauty of that product is greatly enhanced by how well it is installed. With Envi Stone, careful consideration regarding the type of profile and colour selected, the actual installed stone “pattern”, and the type of grout technique used, are all very important factors to consider. It is always best to create a mock-up board with the desired aesthetic appeal prior to installation on your project.
Where can I buy Envi Stone?
Envi Stone is sold through our own channel to ensure customers receive the highest quality products and services. You can contact us directly to purchase.
Installation Questions
Where can I install Envi Stone?
Envi Stone can be applied to any structurally-sound surface with the proper preparation. It fits nearly any building plan — large or small, interior or exterior, new residential or commercial projects – or, on any remodelled structure.
Can I install Envi Stone myself?
In general, installation of Envi Stone can be installed by almost anyone. However, installation does require a fundamental understanding of stone masonry. To benefit from our 50-year warranty, we recommend using our own installation team.
Does Envi Stone hold up to Calgary's freeze and thaw cycles?
With good building practices, proper flashing, and water division, Envi Stone products are very durable against Calgary’s freezing and thawing cycles.
How important is the installation to the appearance?
With most building materials, the appearance of the product is greatly enhanced by using a professional installer. The profile, colour, pattern, and grout technique should all be carefully considered prior to the start of the installation. A mock-up board with your preferred aesthetic is also recommended.
How long does it take to install Envi Stone?
You can expect to install approximately 100 square feet per day. This varies depending upon the stone type used and the installer’s ability. Stacked Stone, for instance, sold in 4″ modular component panels, is easy to install and will provide coverage of up to 200 square feet in a day. Conversely, Shadow Rock, with its irregular shapes and varying stone sizes, can provide coverage of 70-80 square feet a day.
Can I install Envi Stone on overhead horizontal surfaces?
Please verify your installation with your building official and consult with an engineer for specific design issues on your project. There are grout and mortar manufacturers that will support their product’s use in these installations. Envi Stone’s 50-year limited warranty will still cover our veneer products for manufacturing defects.
Can I install Envi Stone near water?
It is not recommended for use below the waterline in a pool, fountain, or below grade. Due to the large amount of water or moisture in the area, our product will be at risk for deterioration or discolouration. We would recommend using a natural stone in these types of applications.
If the stone is being installed in an area where frequent water runoff may occur, we would recommend applying CraftShield™, a high-quality, penetrating, breathable, silane and/or siloxane-based sealer. In general, for exterior installations CraftShield™ will add a layer of protection from the elements without changing the appearance of the stone in any way.
NOTE: When using a sealer, always test a small area beforehand to ensure the final results are aesthetically acceptable. Unlike CraftShield™, certain sealers can darken the colour of the product.
Can I seal Envi Stone?
It is not required to seal Envi Stone. However, a sealer like CraftShield™ will provide added protection and will usually be easier to clean if the surface becomes dirty. CraftShield™ is a silane and siloxane-based penetrating, breathable masonry sealer which will not change the look of your stone.
Does Envi Stone require movement joints?
Expansion joints normally pass completely through a wall. Control joints normally are on the surface of the wall and relieve strain on the skin of the wall. Terminate the veneer installation where control and expansion joints occur in the substrate. Do not span these joints with veneer because this will lead to cracking. Expansion joints in a building must be specified by the architect or engineer. Normally the weakest point on a wall is immediately above and below penetrations.
How do I install Envi Stone when there is an expansion joint?
Treat each section as a “separate” installation. Do not span movement joints with the veneer.
What is Envi Stone’s recommendation regarding flashing around windows and doors?
To maintain the weather resistance of the exterior wall on which the stone products are installed, a rigid, corrosion-resistant flashing — and a means of drainage — should be installed at all penetrations and terminations of the veneer cladding. Flashing type and locations shall be in accordance with the requirements of the applicable code.
Does Envi Stone need a ledge detail at the bottom for structural support or can it hang freely?
No footings or support ledges are needed. The product is an adhered veneer and is supported on the wall by the bond of the mortar to the stone and scratch coat.
Can we install Envi Stone around a fireplace?
Envi Stone can be installed around a fireplace. The veneer has to be a minimum of 18″ from any open flame.
What measures should be taken for hot or cold weather installations?
For cold weather installations, ambient temperature should be 40ºF or higher at the time Envi Stone veneer is applied. If the temperature is below 40ºF, mortar should be heated between 40ºF - 120ºF (not to exceed 140ºF). Any mortar that freezes should be discarded. Wall surfaces may need to be covered and heated after installation of veneer to avoid freezing the mortar. Mortar should be kept under 120ºF and be used within two hours of initial mixing.
What measures should be taken for applications over 30 feet?
Envi Stone can be installed on any structurally-sound surface. However, Envi Stone recommends that you consult with a building code official regarding any project exceeding 30′ in height.
Care & Maintenance
How do I clean Envi Stone?
To clean dirt or other particles, first try a simple soft bristle brush. If necessary, use a mild type of detergent mixed with water or a solution of (no more than) one part white vinegar to six parts water. Rinse with clean water to remove any cleaning solution that might remain on the surface. Never use wire brushes, acid cleaners, power washers, bleach, paint remover, or any other type of concrete cleaner.
How do I clean efflorescence?
When efflorescence occurs, as it does with many masonry products, it is usually the result of moisture migration through the masonry substrate. Once the moisture is on the masonry surface, it evaporates, depositing dissolved salts in the form of efflorescence. Efflorescence naturally disappears over time as long as the moisture source is controlled or eliminated. Efflorescence may be removed with a solution of one part white vinegar to six parts water. Scrub using a soft bristle brush and the vinegar and water solution. Rinse well with clean water.
Can Envi Stone be sealed?
While it is not a requirement to seal your Envi Stone, you can use a sealer such as CraftShield™ for added protection. CraftShield™ also makes the surface easier to clean if it should become dirty. This silane- and siloxane-based sealer will not yellow, darken, or alter the appearance of your stone.
What about protection against graffiti?
In many areas, Envi Stone is considered a protection against graffiti. The colour blends and uneven textures are not the best canvas for graffiti “artists.” However, if you should choose to use an anti-graffiti coating please speak directly to the manufacturer of the anti-graffiti coating product and ask your contractor to submit a test prior to installation. There are urethane and wax-based sealers that can damage the surface or cause it to “yellow.” Other sealers may encourage additional efflorescence on the stone’s surface. No type of coating should be applied until the stone has been on the wall for at least 14 to 28 days.
Technical
How much does Envi Stone weigh?
Our stone weighs approximately 10 - 12lbs per square foot. Envi Stone qualifies as an adhered veneer because it weighs less than 15 lbs per square foot.
Is Envi Stone combustible?
No. It can be installed as a façade to fireplaces and behind stoves. It is recommended the product is at least 18″ away from any direct flame to prevent discolouration of the stone.
How thick are the stones?
Our product ranges from roughly 0.5″ to 3.5″ depending on the profile.
What’s the thickness from the substrate to surface of the stone?
This dimension will vary based on the stone profile and the installer. On average, there should be approximately an additional 0.5″ - 1″ of mortar thickness behind the stone. For example, if your stone profile is 2″ thick, you can expect the total thickness from the substrate to the face of the stone to be approximately 2.5″ - 3″ thick.
What is the installed weight?
The installed weight will vary depending upon the profile chosen and the mortar, grout technique, lath and lath accessories used. Envi Stone can weigh up to 15lbs per square foot. If a specific weight is needed for a project we recommend having an engineer evaluate the system.
What is the fire rating of Envi Stone?
Envi Stone has been tested for fire hazard and shows zero flame spread and zero smoke development. Since Envi Stone is non-combustible, there is no fire rating.
Roofing
How long has stone-coated metal roofing been around?
Stone-coated metal roofing has actually been around since World War II, when tar and sand was used to cover galvanized steel bunkers. After the war, the practice was commercialized and the first roofs were produced. The product technology today bears little resemblance to early practices due to advances in the chemistry in coatings.
Will a steel roof make my home hot?
No. A properly vented steel roof system moves air both between the shingles and the underlying deck as well as moving air from vents under the decking. Heated air is allowed to dissipate through the ridge line as cooler air is drawn through eave vents. Reduced energy bills can result from airflow both under and over the decking.
Can you walk on a steel roof?
Yes. Some care must be exercised while walking on the roof, but note that roofers walk all over shingles during the installation process.
How do the granules stay bonded to the steel?
Specially graded, non-oiled stone chips are used for all stone-coated metal roof products. These fine granules ensure long-term adhesion to the steel substrate and are embedded in a UV resistant acrylic polymer for a lasting bond to the steel substrate.
Will a steel roof rust?
The steel substrate is protected from corrosion by layers of metallic and polymer coatings. Envi Roofing and Exteriors Ltd.’s stone-coated metal roofs utilize an advanced metal composite introduced in 1973 as aluminum-zinc-coated steel. The composite improved earlier metallic coatings by applying an aluminum-zinc alloy to the steel in a continuous hot dip process. The aluminum creates an inert barrier coat while enhancing the long-term performance of zinc and its ability to protect breaks in the coating.
Galvalume-coated steel has repeatedly been shown to outperform the corrosion resistance of other coated metals in industry studies conducted over the last 20 years. This is why our products are backed by a 50-year limited warranty.
Does the colour fade?
Although sized with more precision, our products use the same stone granules used by asphalt shingle manufacturers for over 50 years. Its long history demonstrates that fading is not a problem. Over time, a slight change in colour may occur due to settling of airborne contaminants. However, periodic rain or washing of the roof with a garden hose will keep the roof looking new.
How long does it take to install a steel roof?
Usually only a few days. The complexity of the building’s roof scape is the primary factor in determining the time required.
What is the installed weight of a steel roof in comparison to other products?
This is best answered by the following common product specifications:
Note: Weight per Sq. (1 Sq. = 100 Sq ft.)
Steel Roofing 125lbs
Standard (3-Tab) Asphalt Shingles 190 – 215lbs
Wood Shake/Shingle* 250 – 300lbs
Heavy Weight Laminated Asphalt Shingles 290 – 430lbs
Clay / Concrete Tiles* 900 – 1200lbs
*Note: The weight for cedar, clay, and concrete products are all dry weights. All three product categories will increase in weight when exposed to moisture.
