Categories
Project Management

MAJOR CHALLENGES FACED BY THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

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Overview

The construction industry is a rapidly advancing sector that has adopted the leading technology and sustainability options. However, in the past few decades, the demand for construction projects has expeditiously increased with the population explosion. Technology and sustainability have led to transforming the entire construction sector, but it also comes with a set of challenges. In today’s blog, we will talk about a few major challenges faced by construction companies in Canada and globally. 

Challenges in Construction Sector

We know that for construction projects, the raw materials and products are derived primarily from nature – wood, water, sand, ores, etc. In countries such as Canada, which has vast and varying geography, the level of construction project work will also vary based on the companies, provinces, and internal trade disciplines. A report also states that Canada is the fifth largest construction market in the world, employing at least 1.3 million Canadians! However, companies are facing problems concerning productivity, labor, resources, finances, etc. Let us understand how. 

  • Shortage of Skilled Labor

One of the vital concerns for the construction industry is the lack of trained professionals who implement residential, commercial, or industrial construction projects. Without the right set of skilled laborers, it is difficult to deliver a quality job. Our youth must be empowered and educated about construction science and industry. 

  • Low-grade materials

The construction industry relies on high-quality raw materials for excellent work and long-lasting buildings. The low-quality materials can compromise the structure’s safety and risk the lives of others. The structure failures or collapse will further increase the cost of repairs and severe penalties or lawsuits. 

  • Improper and Poor Project Management

The failure to monitor and manage construction projects efficiently can lead to chaos and miscommunications. Right from the project designs, raw materials, finances, and finishing, everything has to be monitored closely for quality control and assurance. The project plan and method updates/changes have to be communicated to every team member to ensure seamless workflow and accurate digital file management. Miscommunications can also lead to poor workflow and technical blunders affecting the overall work quality. However, if you have a project to discuss, get in touch with Perfect Level Construction Inc. (PLC) for more satisfactory project management and great results. 

  • Scarcity of Natural Resources 
Most of the raw materials for the construction industry are obtained from nature, which is depleting at an alarming rate. Many construction companies are facing issues with the scarcity of water, wood, ores, etc. Did you know that sand is the second most consumed resource after water? Most of the sand is used in construction projects worldwide to provide strength and stability to concrete, asphalt, plasters, basements, etc. Today, ungoverned sand mining and its depletion at an exponential rate are causing deltas to sink and affecting other marine geological processes. The construction industries are facing problems with the looming sand crisis with increasing demand. 
  • Increasing Cost

With depleting resources and advanced technology, the prices of raw materials and investment in construction project increases. To attract skilled laborers, one has to increase the pay scale to complete the project efficiently. One has to be very wise with projects on board. 

 

Key takeaways

Many construction industries are facing numerous challenges concerning raw materials and quality, project management, laborers, finances, and more. To tackle these problems, one has to make a smart choice and switch to sustainable raw materials and green building solutions. 

 

About PLC

Perfect Level Construction (PLC) is a leading construction company based in Canada. We are a group of skilled engineers and researchers who promote sustainable raw materials and construction products for better durability and finishing touches, now at affordable prices. We are a team of green building workers who provide excellent services in roofing, surfacing, and waterproofing systems, along with repairs. 

 

Categories
Project Management

Transforming Construction Industry Through Technology

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Overview

Can you imagine life without technology today? Probably, no. Technology has seeped in through various domains in the commercial field and made us dependent on them for numerous reasons. Today, more than 70% of the construction industry relies on modern technology and solutions to transform their construction business and workflow. The use of technology has proven successful in the long run while providing reliable data required to enhance businesses, companies, and/or the quality of work. Now, we will discuss a few modern technologies used in the construction industry for futuristic goals.

Integrating Tech Tools in Construction

Using innovative tools, software, and high-tech machinery in the construction industry enables semi-automation and automation processes to ensure minimal human errors. Novel construction technology tools are developing swiftly for the betterment of companies and people. Let us understand some of the uses of such technologies. At Perfect Level Construction (PLC), we coordinate with utmost accuracy, speed, and open communication to handle your projects effectively. 

  • Software and Applications

Construction project management can be a daunting process. Numerous software and apps are available that help you keep track of real-time data and collaborations and ease communication between two parties. Automatic planning and scheduling provide valuable details on cost estimation, budget planning, reports, and more. The software and applications also curb communication gaps and enable effective team collaboration in one space. The software solutions are usually cloud-based and are easily accessible, editable, and secure. Today, at least 65-70% of construction companies rely on software solutions for data security, safety, and inspection improvements. 

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

With AI and ML technology, one can boost productivity, make better business decisions, and manage risks efficiently. The integration of AI helps predict future project outcomes using algorithms and data structure. AI sensors can track the real-time project progress, survey construction sites, analyse tools and machinery, etc., and provide accurate results by saving time and minimising human errors. Deep-learning algorithms can help in risk management and safety measures for the environment, people, and machinery. 

  • Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR-VR)

Simulated Realities have taken over the traditional 2D and 3D data in the construction business. With AR and VR, one can create an immersive experience for clients or contractors. It provides information on the construction sites, safety, accessible regions, potential risk zones or hazards, etc. The simulated data can help win new contracts, attract clients and sponsors, and promote business.

  • Drones or Unmanned Aerial vehicles (UAVs) and Robots

Drone technology is extensively used in the construction industry to conduct site surveys and obtain vital data on environmental parameters. Drones equipped with sensors and high-resolution cameras can capture detailed images and videos of the land area and biodiversity. This data will help the authorities to make sound business decisions in favour of the environment and people. Robots are used in construction for bricklaying and to monitor workers’ performance and overall productivity. 

  • Business Information Modelling (BIM)

In BIM, digital data, such as 3D models, are used for stakeholder collaboration and to win sponsors (if required). The digital data can be easily updated and integrated with VR for better ideas and communication. The BIM models can form a base for simulated realities and easy project management. 

Key Takeaways

Technology and innovations have hugely impacted the construction industry by creating numerous positive impacts on the environment and society. With the integration of technology and digitisation, one can boost their business to create a unique presence in the market. Various software, apps, drones, Artificial Intelligence, Simulated Realities, BIM, and many such technologies have proven their accuracy, reliability, time and risk management efficiency. 

About PLC

Perfect Level Construction (PLC) is a leading construction company in Ontario, Canada. We provide green building solutions and promote sustainable products and raw materials for commercial, industrial, and residential construction projects. We offer solutions in waterproofing, roofing, and superior surfacing systems across various Canadian provinces. 

 

Categories
Project Management

Reducing Carbon Footprint through Green Building Solutions

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Overview

Construction industries are one of the major sources of environmental waste and pollution. According to a report by World Economic Forum, the construction sector contributes to around 40% of global carbon emissions. Thorough research and development in the construction domain have helped in the implementation of novel and sustainable solutions in building projects. One such leading construction company, Perfect Level Contruction Inc., is a team of green building workers who promote eco-friendly materials and sustainable construction solutions in Ontario, Canada. In today’s blog, we see how PLC is moving towards sustainable living and decreasing its carbon footprint. 

Making Sustainable Construction A Reality!

We need to explore numerous eco-friendly options to practice sustainable living. Right from the raw materials to design, construction, operations, maintenance, and renovation, the entire cycle must be favourable to the environment with less waste production. Advanced technology and innovation with renewable resources would ensure sustainability and reduce carbon footprint. Here are a few simple steps adopted by construction companies to positively impact the environment. 

  • The Four R’s!

To ensure less waste production, one should remember the Four R’s -Reduce, Reuse, Refuse, and Recycle. The zero-waste policy may be very challenging and impossible to achieve 100%. However, one can always keep an eye on the current waste and implement ways to reduce it. According to a report, virgin steel can be recycled, and its reduced usage can decrease greenhouse gas emissions by 3%. 

  • Sustainable Building Materials

Cement manufacturing leads to massive energy consumption and waste production. Switching to eco-friendly resources can be beneficial in construction product manufacturing. Supermud bricks, Hempcrete, Recycled plastics, Bamboo, Laminated timber, Hemp fibre and recycled aggregate concrete, Cork sprays, etc., are leading eco-friendly options for sustainable construction. PLC is a leading Canadian distributor of Coverlink’s Cork Spray in Ontario and across Canadian provinces. You can read more about cork spray here and know why it is a wise choice for architectural finishing. 

PLC also offers sustainable solutions in roofing, surfacing, and waterproofing systems. 

  • Novel Construction Methods and Technology

With the boom in technology, we can research and analyze options that can help innovation and modern construction solutions. Building eco houses, eco and green roofs, cork sprays and paints, and restoration solutions will contribute towards a better environment and less wastage. It is crucial to have flexible designs, adaptable structures, and low-carbon products to improve construction practices and harness the power of renewable resources. 

PLC, in association with Kemper System and Coverlink, uses products that are made from 80 to 100% renewable raw materials, chemical and toxin-free, non-irritant, durable, stable, and with a warranty of up to 20 years. All the products are of excellent quality, affordable, and highly approved after a series of tests before application. 

Key Takeaways

Reducing carbon footprint is not a daunting and overnight task. With small and meaningful changes, we can overall create a positive impact on the environment for years to come. Construction industries can opt for the four R’s and rely on innovative solutions to consume less energy. PLC, a Canadian construction company, offers reliable, excellent, and affordable green solutions for construction. 

Categories
Project Management

Sustainable Construction: Definition and Importance

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Overview

Environmental sustainability is the leading concern globally. Various measures and schemes are implemented to conserve energy and contribute to the wellness of the environment. But, according to World Green Building Council, energy-intensive industries, such as the construction sector, are leading consumers of raw materials and natural resources and generate almost 40% of the world’s carbon emissions. However, with sustainability and environmental concern being the priority, the sector is incorporating more sustainable solutions and goals. In today’s blog, we will discuss sustainable construction and its importance. 

What is Sustainable Construction?

Sustainable construction refers to using recyclable and renewable materials in projects and prioritizing less energy consumption, waste production, and carbon emissions. The main aim is to reduce the negative impacts on the environment. The concept of sustainability in the construction industry starts from the type of raw materials used, methods, building design, and after-maintenance. Today, there are numerous raw materials and product options for residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial projects. The products used in building projects must be of superior quality, toxic-free, root and rot-resistant, increased warranty, cost-effective, and eco-friendly. By harnessing the power of green technology, we can significantly transform the practices in the construction industry and employ energy-efficient methods. 

The Need for Sustainable Construction

The demand for greener and cleaner technology is increasing each day. Companies are slowly turning towards green construction methods to transform the face of construction. By using sustainable construction methods, we can offer a better-quality life to all and positively impact the environment. By using the appropriate methods and resources, one can turn construction projects more sustainable. Some ways we can indulge in green building technology through

  • renewable energy resources
  • sustainable raw materials – wood, cork spray, sustainable concrete, etc.
  • Kemper System products* 

With the increasing pollution and environmental resource depletion, it is only fair to implement eco-friendly methods to practice sustainability and cost efficiency. According to a review report, it is estimated that around 36% of energy is consumed by construction industries. The improper waste disposal and carbon emissions drastically impact the environment and people’s health. The traditional architectural finishing methods usually require constant maintenance and expenses. 

Challenges in Sustainable Construction

Though there are numerous benefits to sustainable construction and green technology, it is challenging to transit from traditional to advanced technology. High-quality equipment, training, design, engineering, and risk management are needed while implementing sustainable construction practices. Another challenge faced might be concerning the principal cost of sustainable construction. The initial price or investment may be high compared to the actual demand. The safety and ethics standards must be complied with regarding sustainable construction to reduce the overall carbon footprint.  

Key Takeaways

With sustainability in higher demand, construction companies are researching novel ways to combat the environmental issues concerning building projects. The authorities must implement superior solutions at an effective cost that positively impacts the environment and lessens the burden on natural resources. 

*Kemper System manufactures the finest quality cold liquid for fully strengthened waterproofing, roofing, and surface membranes. Perfect Level Construction (PLC) is the leading distributor of Kemper System products and Coverlink’s Cork Spray, which are made from renewable and recyclable materials. PLC is a leading construction company in Ontario, Canada, and offers cork spray installation along with new roof assemblies, repairs, eco-friendly roofing, waterproofing, and superior surfacing systems solutions. 

Categories
Project Management

Construction Ethics and Safety

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Ethics are a part of our everyday lives-whether personal or professional. The same goes for the business world. These are parameters that ensure a sense of integrity in the business and the set rules and codes in place lay the foundation for ethical behavior in a business. It is a practice that’s followed in every corner of the world today. The construction sector just like any other business has its own code of ethics, too. But what are they? And do they contribute in any way to safety in construction? Does having ethics in place help in ensuring safety? Let’s find out.


  • Ethics in Construction Industry

Ethics plays a significant role in the construction industry. It has ensured there is a certain standard maintained in terms of fairness, integrity, accountability, and honesty not just when it comes to the work being carried out, but also with respect to hiring the workers, ensuring the safety of the workers and the project, etc. Without ethics, the entire system and process would probably be flooded with corruption, unethical practices, and a certain level of negligence towards safety.


  • Importance of Ethics in the Construction Work Environment

Ethics in any kind of work environment plays a huge contribution when it comes to the hiring process, appraisals, and promotions, maintaining a work-life balance, treating the employees fairly, and ensuring timely remunerations. In the construction sector, they help ensure due diligence is kept when it comes to the worker’s safety. Ethical practices imply one uses proper quality materials, proper supply of safety gear, timely shifts (as the job is quite tiresome), etc.  Thus, we can see Ethics helps set up a safety net for the workers’ lives as well as their mental well-being.


  • Ethics: How to make the most of it?

To derive the maximum benefits from any ethical system, one needs to focus on the top-down approach. This means the change has to be set in and followed by the highest authorities first. Having strong, ethical leadership would ensure the system works seamlessly. Not just this but the company must be open to learning, making mistakes, and then relearning their systems. 


  • Safety in Construction Industry: How important is it? & Steps one can take to ensure safety?

Needless to say, safety is a high priority in every business. But when it comes to the construction line, wrongful safety measures could involve the risk of life as well. At times, the costs associated with prioritizing safety are considered unnecessary expenses. The reason behind this is that the project gets completed without a mishap. But prevention is always better than cure. At PLC, we believe safety to be of utmost importance. Accidents have a direct impact on construction projects. While minor accidents might cause small injuries, slight delays, and small amounts of damage in terms of money and time. A big one could bring the entire project to a standstill.

 

One could ensure safety with PPEs(Personal protective equipment), strictly adhering to the environmental and ethical guidelines, keeping the work area clean, and ensuring proper training and programs are conducted on a regular basis. One also needs to check the equipment is maintained and kept in a good condition. Apart from this one also needs to keep a tab on the entire team and make sure the quality of materials used is up to the mark. 

 

You can rely on us, Perfect Level Construction (PLC), for all construction-related solutions and excellent raw materials. We follow standardized protocols while implementing various construction projects. The ethics and safety measures ensure all our employees and workers are safe and help us deliver promising results. The safety and ethics protocol provides a safe work environment for everyone and prevents legal disputes and unnecessary expenses. 

 

Conclusion 

Being ethical is vital and it shows how the business treats its clients, staff, and other stakeholders. Ignoring ethics and safety measures could prove very costly not just in terms of the legal hassles but also affect the future of the business. Ensure an ethical, safe environment for your staff and the clients as you scale your business to higher highs!





References

 

Categories
Project Management

EFFECTIVE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT TIPS

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Overview

The construction industry has seen a boom in business and projects over the past few decades due to the increasing population, technology, and industries. The science of construction has adapted to all the latest technology and novel solutions. Managing construction projects can be daunting and requires skills to effectively complete the project. Today, we will talk about a few skills that a construction project manager must possess in a work environment. 

What is Construction Project Management?

Construction Management Projects involve a deep understanding of design, modern management, and the construction process. Every construction project has a set of aims and objectives with various ideas and completion. The entire project management team addresses main concerns, such as finances, risk assessments, appointments, products, legalities, and more. The Construction Project Management involves team members, such as financial advisors, C-suite executives, engineers, contractors, lawyers, and workers, who overlook the entire process until the project’s completion. 

Construction Project Management Skills

Apart from a proper educational background, the project management team must possess certain skills to perform the job successfully:

  • Technical skills
  • Research and Planning
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem-solving
  • Time Management 
  • Financial management and risk assessment
  • Communication skills
  • Business and Quality management

These skills are very crucial to handling construction projects effectively and building a healthy relationship with coworkers at all times. 

Tips to Successfully Manage Construction Projects

Construction Project Managers must monitor the entire project and ensure there are no conflicts during the project completion. Here are a few tips to manage the construction project without any hassle. 

  • BREW IDEAS, PLAN, AND EXECUTE

For a successful project, one must brainstorm for ideas and spend time doing an ample amount of research and planning. Understand the project scope thoroughly and analyze the ideas before finalizing or executing them. The list of resources required for the project must be checked. Ensure the goods are supplied on time with the set schedules and project milestones. In the case of any errors or setbacks, be flexible to alter or adapt new ideas instead of delaying the project. 

  • PROPER COMMUNICATION

Effective communication is crucial to convey ideas clearly and concisely. Ensure that the message does not get lost with the words. Email, calls, paperwork, etc., demands good oral and written communication skills to share information. Miscommunication may lead to internal conflicts and project delays. When everyone communicates freely in a work environment, it leads to improved collaboration and smoother running of the projects. Communication skills are crucial to negotiating deals involving financial or legal aspects. 

  • TIME MANAGEMENT

Prioritize your project work according to the set milestones. Delegate the duties systematically to the team members. Ensure that you have the right workforce carrying out the important tasks assigned. This way, you will not have to micromanage every little thing and trust them with professional decisions and feedback. 

  • PROPER DOCUMENTATION

The ideas, plans, designs, financial details, etc., have to be well documented, updated, and monitored regularly. The documents can be helpful while involving stakeholders and the legal team. In case of any delays, changes in the budget, or plans, it is necessary to show supportive documents of proof. Similarly, the legal documents pertaining to the project must also be safely maintained. 

  • PRIORITIZE EMPLOYEES’ SAFETY AND WELL-BEING

The construction projects are challenging, and adopting stringent safety methods is a must to ensure the employees’ well-being. The senior team members must verify the installed braces, construction equipment, site inspection, and so on. Safety negligence can cause serious harm to the workers, team members, or passersby, resulting in legal actions. 

Key Takeaway

Construction Project Management oversees the entire working process, right from ideas and project completion. In between, one has to continuously monitor the financial, legal, and business aspects effectively. With proper communication, educational background, critical thinking, time management, and compassion, the work can be done fluently without any altercations. 

Categories
Project Management

What is External Insulation & Finish System(EIFS)? Why use coverlink’s cork spray as the final finish in EIFS?

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Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exterior_insulation_finishing_system

External Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) is an insulation system that is installed on the exterior walls from outside. In EIFS the insulation layer is continuous and allows the designers with flexibility and aesthetics of the building while confirming to the energy codes.
The American Society for Testing and Materials and the International Building Code define EIFS as a non load bearing, exterior wall cladding system that consists of an insulation board attached either with mechanical fasteners and/or adhesives to the substrate; an integrally reinforced base coat and the final finish that is textured and protects the base layers.
Now-a-days EIFS needs to also have a drainage plane in between the substrate and the inner wall structure. This change in the system design allows the efficient drainage of any moisture and water before it can enter into the cavity of the wall.

History of EIFS:

It was introduced in the United States in late 1960s and was used on commercial buildings initially. Subsequently it was also used on homes.

A typical EIFS consists of following components:

EIFS as a cladding system has been developed long time ago hence is well researched and one of the most tested cladding systems in the construction industry, making it widely accepted, used and best performing cladding systems when it come to thermal and moisture control.

EIFS is also recognized as a system that is in full compliance with modern building with greater emphasis on energy conservation.

Benefits of EIFS:

With superior energy efficiency and limitless design possibilities, EIFS offers many benefits over any other siding or cladding systems.

Energy Efficiency:

  • Reduce air infiltration
  • Adds R-value to the walls
  • Helps reduction in heating and cooling loads in
    the building
  • Achieve Continuous insulation
  • Reduce 45% of energy use.

Durability:

  • Rarely needs painting
  • Maintains the original appearance for a long time
  • Color is integral to the finial finish.
  • Excellent resistance to dirt, mildew, and mold.
  • EIFS can absorb building movements
  • EIFS is also resistant to hurricane weather.
EIFS is durable, resilient and sustainable. High impact resistance in EIFS can be achieved through good design, sound specifications, use of proper materials, and construction techniques.

Aesthetics:

  • Rich appearance
  • Versatile
  • Unlimited color options
  • Textures
  • Adapts any shape and design
  • Unlimited creativity – cornices, arches, columns,
    keystones, cornerstones, moldings and accents
  • Striking and distinctive exteriors

Moisture Resistant

Fire Resistant

No ignition at radiant heat exposure

Flame spread resistance

Problems in Top Coat / Final Finish

Needs to be applied by a trained and certified professional

Made from Portland cement – A Green House Gas intensive material

Improper installation can lead to failures

Failure to allow curing time for inner layers can be detrimental

Stucco (the final finish / Top coat) will shrink over time and crack, just like concrete.

It is porous and hence fails to keep the rain out in case of prolonged exposure to rain.

The water leakage can find its way into the wooden structure inside and cause mold and rot.

The synthetic acrylic polymer based top coats are designed to be completely waterproof and do not breathe at all, which means if the water finds its way behind the top layers, it won’t have any way to escape, unless it can weep out from the bottom of the wall.

Calls for additional attention to the windows and doors with high quality caulking and proper flashing.

Water can get trapped behind the synthetic stucco systems.

Problems in Top Coat / Final Finish

Cork Spray confirms to all the important requirements of the exterior walls as mentioned in the Building Codes as per the National Research Council of Canada.

The principal requirements of an exterior wall include:
1) Control Heat Flow – Cork being naturally Heat resistant is the best in class material and has unmatched Thermal Conductivity compared to Stucco or any other siding material.

2) Control air flow – Cork Spray does not promote
any flow of air from outside towards the inside of
the house. Stucco on the other hand is highly
porous and can allow greater degree of air flow
compared to Cork Spray

3) Control water vapour flow – One of the most important properties / features of Cork Spray is the breathability. Cork Spray allows the water vapour to escape through the coating, however it does not allow and vapour to penetrate through the coating from outside to inside.
4) Control Rain penetration – Cork Spray is the only architectural finish that is completely waterproof on walls. It does not allow any seepage of water into the wall from outside.
5) Control light, solar and other radiation – With a very high resistance to UV
and solar radiation Cork Spray offers a great solutions to the common fading
problems that can be found in the stucco.

6) Control noise – Another most exemplary feature of Cork Spray is its acoustic insulation property. Using Cork Spray on the walls can reduce the sound reflections, absorption and transmission.

7) Control Fire – The most important property of Cork Spray is its ability to withstand direct flame and is not combustible. Cork Spray made by Coverlink offers a Euroclass B
8) Provide strength and rigidity – Strength and rigidity of a wall depends on the performance of the outermost layer of the facade. If the top coat of the facade cannot withstand any one of the natural forces as expected then it can compromise the overall strength of the walls. Cork Spray being infinitely versatile and having capabilities to endure harsh conditions (in many cases much better than stucco) is the choice of engineers and building professionals due to its tenacity.
9) Be durable – Cork Spray is at least twice as durable as the stucco. Currently Coverlink’s Cork spray offers 10 years warranty, however soon the warranty will be bumped up by additional 5 more years.


10) Be aesthetically pleasing – Aesthetics play an important role in the final finish of the building. Cork Spray being able to withstand all the forces of nature much better than stucco will as a result offer a long lease to the aesthetics of your building. It also comes in choice of many colours and the options are unlimited.
11) Be economical – When it comes to economics of a material it is important to square up all the benefits offered by the material, its life, its rigidity and durability. Cork Spray as a result of its properties works out to be an excellent choice for its cost. When compared to stucco, Cork Spray is at par and when compared to other popular siding materials, it can even be less expensive.
One of the important features offered by Cork Spray is its resistance to Salt penetration. This property is not required by the Building Codes for exterior walls, however it is important to note that all the popular siding materials including stucco are less resistant to salt than Spray Cork.
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