Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL & BUSINESS
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Our home base is in Pickerington, Ohio. We primarily serve the greater Central Ohio area; however, our expertise in specialized finishes often takes us much further. We frequently mobilize for high-impact projects across the entire state of Ohio and are fully equipped to travel for significant commissions in regional hubs such as Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, and Louisville. If your project demands our signature craftsmanship, we are willing to discuss travel logistics anywhere in the Midwest and beyond.
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Yes. We have a strong background in both residential and commercial sectors. We are well-versed in the requirements of prevailing wage projects, including certified payroll and strict adherence to architectural specifications.
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Absolutely. We carry full general liability and workers' compensation insurance. We are happy to provide certificates of insurance (COI) to homeowners or project managers upon request before any work begins.
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We recommend reaching out 4–6 weeks before your desired start date, though we do our best to accommodate tight windows for smaller projects or repairs.
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They serve different purposes. Venetian Plaster is a breathable, lime-based finish celebrated for its stone-like depth and limitless aesthetic range. Microcement is a high-performance cement and polymer hybrid engineered for enhanced durability. This makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic flooring and areas in direct contact with water, such as seamless walk-in showers.
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Yes. Venetian Plaster typically requires a smooth Level 4-5 drywall finish, depending on the desired texture. Microcement is incredibly versatile and can be applied directly over existing tile, concrete, or wood, allowing for a high-end renovation without the mess of a total demolition.
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Microcement is fully waterproof when sealed, making it ideal for wet rooms and sinks. Authentic Venetian Plaster is naturally moisture-resistant and breathable, which prevents mold, but we apply specialized sealers for use in bathrooms or kitchens to protect against splashes.
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These are low-maintenance, long-term finishes. For daily cleaning, a soft damp cloth with pH-neutral soap is all you need. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges, which can dull the hand-burnished luster of the plaster.
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Unlike paint, these finishes are hand-applied in layers. While they are exceptionally durable, minor nicks can often be patched and burnished to blend in with the surrounding texture. For more significant damage, we can perform seamless repairs that maintain the integrity of the original finish.
DECORATIVE FINISHES (VENETIAN & MICROCEMENT)
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EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) provides continuous insulation. It wraps your building in a thermal blanket that eliminates thermal bridging, significantly lowering your heating and cooling costs. It is also more flexible than traditional stucco, making it highly resistant to cracking during Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles.
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In most cases, yes. These adhered veneer materials are remarkably lightweight—typically averaging between 10 and 15 lbs. per square foot— and do not require the massive concrete footers necessary for full-depth stone masonry. We can often install them over existing masonry or framed walls with proper substrate preparation.
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Yes. Traditional Portland cement stucco is a non-combustible material. When installed as a 3-coat system, it is a key component in achieving a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated wall assembly. This provides a significant safety benefit for both residential and commercial structures, particularly in areas with tight property lines or strict fire codes.
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Modern EIFS is a sophisticated water-managed system designed to protect the building envelope. Our installations start with a liquid vapor barrier applied directly to the sheathing, followed by a dedicated drainage plane or mat behind the insulation board. This ensures that any incidental moisture is channeled safely away from the structure. A critical part of our process is the installation of proper flashings, specifically kickout diverter flashing at roof-to-wall intersections. This directs water from the roof into the gutter system, addressing the primary cause of failures seen in 90s-era installations. We also integrate expansion joints to allow for structural movement, which are properly finished with backer rod and caulking to ensure a flexible, weather-tight seal that keeps the substrate protected.
EXTERIOR SYSTEMS (EIFS, STUCCO & STONE)
PROJECT PROCESS & TIMELINES
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There are many variables that influence a project’s timeline. A typical interior Venetian plaster or microcement application generally takes 3–5 days due to the necessary drying and curing times required between each hand-applied layer. For larger exterior EIFS, stucco, or stone projects, timelines are quoted specifically based on total square footage, site access, weather conditions, and the overall scope of work.
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Absolutely. We understand that texture and color are everything in high-end design. We can provide custom sample boards (typically 18”x18”) so you can see exactly how the light hits the finish in your specific space before we begin.
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Exterior plastering and stonework require specific temperature windows for proper curing (usually above 40°F). While we primarily schedule exterior work from spring through late fall, we can perform winter installations if the project site can be properly tented and heated to ensure optimal curing conditions.
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Our projects are managed by an experienced site lead who has been trained to execute our specific artisan techniques. I am actively involved in the oversight of every project, making regular site visits to monitor quality and assist with technical finish applications. You can expect a professional, small-crew environment focused on precision and site cleanliness.
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You can reach out through our website contact form or give us a call. For a precise estimate, it is helpful to have your approximate square footage and a few photos of the current space or architectural drawings ready.
Still have questions about your specific project? Every home is unique, and we’re here to provide the expert guidance you need. Let’s discuss your vision and find the perfect finish together.
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Your vision, refined. Sometimes a digital FAQ isn't enough—you need to see the movement and feel the texture. We offer custom sample board creation to help you finalize finishes and present a flawless vision to your clients. Partner with Columbus’s premier specialty plasterers.
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