A crash course in fiber cement was on the agenda earlier this week at Sto Corp.
During a demonstration at Sto’s Atlanta plant, which features a unique and dynamic StoVentec Glass Rainscreen System illustrated with a colorful depiction of Atlanta’s skyline, company officials educated visitors on the properties of its recently-released StoVentec Fiber Cement System.
Officials presented the various ways the system could be installed, be it riveted, screwed or anchored, and showcased the numerous ways it can be patterned with other products, such as glass panels, to create a dynamic facade. Sto offers multiple systems, ranging from thin masonry veneer cladding, fiber cement and even backpainted glass cladding.
Officials explained that Sto’s cement system includes non-combustible continuous insulation, a weather-tight air and water-resistive barrier and high-density, non-combustible fiber cement panels. Panels are available in sizes up to 4 feet by 10 feet and 8 to 10 millimeters thick. They can be cut into various shapes or sizes, providing design flexibility for facades and interiors.
Before the demonstration, Sto’s plant manager, Brian Gnagey, led visitors on a guided tour of the company’s plant. The facility produces dry and wet components that are researched, manufactured, color-matched and distributed. To achieve this, the plant houses an assortment of automated systems that ensure that products contain the proper amount of components. Automated systems throughout the facility also fill bags with the correct amount of cement, stack the bags on pallets, apply and seal bucket leads and ensure the right amount of paint is applied to each mixture.