Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
About Styrok
What is Styrok made of?
All Styrok products consist of a factory applied engineered limestone lamina made of lime and glass fibre reinforced concrete (“GFRC”) backed by a high-density expanded polystyrene (“EPS”) foam board.
GFRC is a high-performance composite of cement, fine sand aggregate, acrylic polymer, glass fibres and other performance admixtures. It’s lighter than conventional concrete and has considerably higher compressive and flexural strength. It also has a denser surface. When further sealed, it has a lower moisture absorption rate and offers better protection from stains than conventional concrete or natural stone.
The GFRC lamina ensures that Styrok products are highly durable and impact-resistant, while the EPS adds R-value insulation and keeps weight to about 3 lbs per square foot. This makes for an easy, cost-effective installation process - no mechanical fastening or structural support is required.
Is Styrok the same as stucco?
No. Styrok is fundamentally different from stucco and EIFS.
Stucco and EIFS typically rely on thin surface-applied coatings made with acrylic binders and sand or aggregate. Styrok is manufactured from glass fibre reinforced concrete (GFRC) and formed into architectural panels, mouldings, corners, and other profiles.
The main similarities are that both systems can be lightweight and can incorporate insulation. Beyond that, the materials, manufacturing process, finished appearance, and overall character are very different.
Styrok is designed to provide the depth, solidity, and mineral appearance of architectural stone rather than the appearance of a surface-applied stucco finish.
How durable is Styrok?
Styrok is designed to last for decades. All of our products contain a GFRC lamina (of various thicknesses depending on the product and application). GFRC is a high-performance composite of cement, fine sand aggregate, acrylic polymer, glass fibres and other performance admixtures. It has considerably higher compressive and flexural strength than conventional concrete and natural stone. It also has a denser surface. When further sealed, it has a lower moisture absorption rate and offers better protection from dirt or stains.
What colours are available?
All Styrok panels and mouldings are produced in our signature Natural Indiana Limestone colour. Because our goal is to achieve the most authentic stone aesthetic possible, we intentionally incorporate pieces crafted with subtle tonal and textural variations. These slight differences in shade and texture emulate the natural character of real limestone, ensuring a rich, lifelike finish across every installation.
Custom colours are also available upon request.
Can I paint over my Styrok?
Yes, but we don’t recommend it. All Styrok products designed to look like natural stone or precast - we don’t use cement colouring. Instead, we blend various sizes and colours of aggregate directly into the cement coating to achieve the most realistic colour possible. This process also minimizes discoloration over time.
If you would like a custom colour, let us know when you place your order and we will mix the desired colour directly into the cement coating for a more authentic look.
What products do you offer?
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Wall Panels
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Mouldings and Accents
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A-Z Custom Project Service (custom design and fabrication, project management, installation)
Can you make custom fabricated products?
Yes, we can. Since we manufacture all our products in-house, we can make a virtually endless array of custom carved accents, dormers, address engravings etc.
Installation
How is Styrok installed?
Styrok products can be installed over new or existing construction. For existing construction, Styrok is installed directly over existing cladding (provided that the substrate is in a suitable condition). For new construction (or where the substrate is not in a good condition), Styrok is installed over an EIFS wall assembly. In both cases, Styrok is adhered to the wall using a non-proprietary exterior grade polymerized adhesive. No mechanical fastening or structural support is required.
Styrok products are installed in a similar manner to natural stone: (1) cut to size; (2) install in a desired pattern; (3) grout the joints. As is the case with natural stone, pattern layout and joint location are important aesthetic elements that need to be carefully considered.
Maintenance
How can I clean my Styrok?
All Styrok products have a non-porous GFRC latex-modified lamina and are pre-sealed with a nano penetrating sealer, so they will resist dirt and mud. They are easy to clean and can be safely power washed. For more stubborn dirt or any efflorescence that may develop, you can apply a mixture of soap and water before rinsing or power washing.
Does Styrok require any ongoing maintenance?
Unlike wood, stucco and other siding materials, Styrok rarely requires ongoing maintenance. Its acrylic modified GFRC cement lamina resists fading, moisture and discolouration, so it will maintain its crisp appearance over time.
That being said, excessive wall movement may cause hairline cracks. Caulking and joints should be checked periodically and any cracks should be immediately regrouted. Aluminum flashing should also be checked periodically for potential leaks.
Warranty
Do you offer a warranty on your products?
Yes. We offer an industry leading 10 year product warranty. Contact us for more information.
