The architectural forms of the house and their individual elements at all times of human civilization were dictated by the presence of one or another type of building material. Strictly speaking, with the advent of new building materials, the decoration of buildings and their appearance have also changed.

The antique style, the Gothic, the modernist, and so on appeared. Architectural buildings were no longer uniform in appearance. But the evolution of the styles of architectural structures did not stop, and in 1951 foam was synthesized.

A new style has emerged for architectural structures, where foam plastic facade decor with a special coating played a key role in.

1 General information about styrofoam facade decor

As time went on, finishing the facade with foam with a special coating gained its popularity, and the potential capabilities of the main material - foam - only increased. At the moment, many architectural buildings and their individual elements are decorated with this material.

Houses with styrofoam decoration look inimitably charming, light and emitting a certain romantic warmth.

The decorative foam entablature perfectly completes the upper part of the building wall, giving the house a certain mysterious classic look, even if the building lacks decorative columns (well-known elements of classical buildings).

The decorative facade of the building, where the decoration was done by hand using foam plastic and coating, only enhances the already vivid impressions, especially if it has a decorative archivolt that frames the arched opening.

If, in addition, the columns of the building (if any) are decorated with a decorative figured capital, then the final appearance of the building will excite the imagination of everyone who looks at it. This is exactly the result that should be achieved.

In addition, decorative chips can be applied to the facade decor made of foam plastic, which will give the building an even more impressive appearance. You can make decorative chips yourself, but it is better to purchase them in specialized stores.

Almost all the main elements of an architectural building can be made of polystyrene foam. The list is quite large:

• Carved cornice;
• Porticos;
• Architectural modilions;
• Rusting the basement of the building;
• Window frames;
• Console elements;
• Flutes and portals on.

As a result, it turns out that finishing the facade of the house with foam plastic with a special coating looks more than attractive visually, and at the same time can be done by hand.

1.1 Advantages of styrofoam facade decor

Coated styrofoam trim for do-it-yourself house facade decor has the following advantages:

• Non-molding production technology, which does not use expensive stencil elements;
• Relatively low cost of products;
• Acceptable speed of order execution;
• Huge service life before the need for major repairs (from 5 to 7 years with advance reinforcement and with the coating of the product during installation);
• Literal unlimited size of the final product (individual elements of the facade decor of the house are also unlimited in size);
• Do-it-yourself quick and easy installation;
• The minimum load on the load-bearing elements of the house that does not lead to destructive changes;
• Compressive strength as y;
• Immunity to the processes of decay or colonization by fungi;
• Fire resistance of type "A".

In addition, foam can be applied to the facade decor under any climatic conditions, including its use in absolutely any region, regardless of the local climate or temperature extremes.

2 Installation process

The process of installing decorating fragments of the facade is so easy and quick that it can be done by hand. And in this case, it is only important that all the necessary products are made in strict compliance with technological standards and requirements.

As a rule, this is more about the reinforcement process, that is, in other words, the process of strengthening the outer surface before starting to fix the necessary products in place or between themselves.

In addition, installation work of this type should in no case be carried out in the autumn or winter periods.

The first step is to prepare a surface on which slabs or various decorative elements of the facade will subsequently be fixed. The surface to be prepared must be strictly flat and absolutely clean.

Possible deviations should not exceed 10 millimeters per square meter. In this case, the plaster must be made without the presence of internal voids, and this is a very important point. If such voids are found, then it is necessary to level them with an ordinary cement solution.

If in the process of this manipulation it turns out that the facade was already originally painted, then the husk of the old paint should simply be removed.

2.1 Manufacturing technology

For curly cutting of the foam material, a so-called "string" heated to a working state is used. The accuracy of the execution of sketch forms must be secured by using computer graphics, with a constant transfer of information to machine digital control.

It is for this reason that the parts are fitted to each other with the utmost maximum precision, which is measured in microns.

Reinforcement of various decorative elements of the facade is carried out using acrylic fiberglass mesh, which is very resistant to alkalis, which is only beneficial to the final material, since this mesh also increases its strength, protecting it from the effects of ultraviolet rays and possible sudden changes in climate.

After that, adhesive spraying is added to the mesh using a fixing cement-glue composition. In this case, the thickness of the spraying should be no less than 1.5 - 3 millimeters, focusing on the size of the workpiece.

As a result, visually, the facade decor made of foam plastic with a coating will very much resemble a carefully plastered surface, which, in fact, should ideally be.

Despite the fact that the described manipulations can be done with your own hands, while having the baggage of necessary knowledge and tools necessary for carrying out this type of work, it is still better to turn to specialized firms in order to guarantee the success and efficiency of installation of facade decor made of foam material.

They are used for roof insulation.

2.2 The process of reinforcing facade decor from foam plastic (video)

The façade, decorated with exquisite stucco molding, creates a lasting impression. A completely ordinary building can be turned into a real palace if decorated with decorative elements. Nowadays, facade decor made of expanded polystyrene, which is also called imitation of stucco molding, is often used for decoration. It is much more convenient than heavy stucco molding, because not every cottage owner plans to load the walls with kilograms of gypsum and plaster.

Stucco molding is a necessary part of neoclassicism or eclecticism. In ancient times, such decorations were made from marble, plaster, plaster or other materials. Now there is a great opportunity to buy them ready-made and fix them on the facade. Moreover, they will not load the load-bearing part of the structure. Coated styrofoam facade decor has become widespread, since it can be used to quickly and inexpensively decorate a building.

Advantages and properties of facade decor

There are many reasons to install a facade decor made of expanded polystyrene:

• Low weight of the product - the imitation of stucco molding does not put unnecessary stress on the facade.
• Durability - expanded polystyrene does not collapse under the influence of sunlight, moisture, temperature extremes.
• Simple installation - it is not necessary to contact the builders, you can handle it yourself. The decor is attached with glue.
• The product can be dyed - you can choose any color.
• Aesthetic qualities - the most complex architectural forms can be obtained from expanded polystyrene.
• Affordable price - the purchase of the material will take much less money than if you decided to create plaster stucco molding.
• Safety - since the stucco molding is very light, in case of a fall, it practically does not pose a danger to a person walking by the building. But plaster decor can be traumatic.
• Heat and sound insulation - expanded polystyrene is a heater that reduces heat loss and dampens sound waves.

More durable - facade decor made of polystyrene foam with a composite or cement-polymer coating

Advice. If you want to visually lengthen the facade, you can use an interfloor belt. To make the building appear taller, use columns, pilasters and other vertical elements.

Polystyrene production

To obtain decorative products from expanded polystyrene, polystyrene granules are placed in a mold and treated with chemicals. As a result of the action of active substances, the material foams and expands, occupying the entire capacity. Various shapes will be cut from the resulting blank sheets.

Architectural elements for facade finishing are formed by means of molded cutting. It is produced by means of a special instrument, the nozzle of which resembles a string. During the manufacture, computer 3d-modeling is used. This achieves high accuracy down to one micron. The technology used makes it possible to produce decorative items of a given size and shape. The designer works on the appearance of every detail. Some firms offer custom-made polystyrene decor according to an individual sketch.

Material texture and color

Styrofoam decor is most often white. But they can always be repainted. White is a versatile color that can be combined with any architectural style. Imitations of decorative stone are widespread. You can purchase tiles featuring brick wall textures, wood grain, or natural stone tiles.

Decorating ideas

By attaching styrofoam decor to the walls with your own hands, you can decorate the house in various style directions:

• Classic- in this case, complex stucco molding with curls is not used. Distinctive features are triangular sandriks and pediments, pilasters, rectangular window openings.
• Neo-style- a modern interpretation of one or more architectural trends. For example, you can combine pointed Gothic arches with antique columns.
• Gothic- lancet vaults and carved decorations are characteristic. The walls can contain bas-reliefs with sculptural compositions and false niches. If your windows are standard and rectangular, you can buy a custom shape that will turn them into gothic vaulted. In this case, you do not have to disassemble the masonry and arrange a new one.
• Japanese- restrained decor, simple geometric shapes. Often elements for the facade are painted with brown paint, and the walls are left white.
• Fairy- usually used in the design of small country houses. The dwelling can resemble a Disneyland palace or a hobbit's burrow. You can use a large amount of small decor.
• Baroque- an abundant amount of stucco molding, panels, rosettes and floral ornaments are often used.
• Fachwerk- use imitation of load-bearing elements - old wooden beams and crossbeams.
• Romanticism- happened in Italy, absorbed elements of oriental styles, including Arabic.

Most often, designers use facade elements in order to create insulated houses that are close in style to classicism. Such buildings are quite conservative and, at the same time, fashionable and luxurious.

Varieties of facade stucco

Due to the special properties of expanded polystyrene, a wide variety of decor types can be made from it.

Cornices, moldings, arched openings - used to decorate door portals and window blocks

Columns, semi-columns and pilasters are usually used to decorate the veranda and entrance area. The difference between a column and a pilaster is that it is a free-standing element. Pilasters and semi-columns are always leaning against the wall

Bas-reliefs - can cover most of the wall and look like a separate block like a painting

Decorative fences - cannot be used as balustrades, since expanded polystyrene will not withstand the mass of a person who decides to lean on it

Basement tiles - mounted in the lower part of the building, often made under natural stone

Corner elements - serve not only as decoration, but also prevent the penetration of water and dirt at the junction

Castle stones are used to decorate openings, arches, vaults. Often performed with images of lions or mythical creatures

It should be noted that the facade decor can be vertical or horizontal by the type of installation. To make the building look harmonious, both types are usually used.

How to install decorative stucco molding

The operation is not difficult, but it requires accuracy. First, you need to prepare the surface on which you want to fix the decoration. If the wall is uneven, then it will not be possible to neatly attach the column or portico. Uneven stucco molding is unlikely to improve the appearance of the building. Most likely, it will have to be dismantled. When removed, the decorative element will be damaged and will be unusable for further use.

Stucco molding for the facade made of expanded polystyrene can be used not only for external, but also for internal decoration. Installation can be done in various ways. Small parts are fixed with double-sided tape or glue. While the glue is still fresh, the part can move under its own weight. Therefore, it is advisable to substitute a temporary support that will temporarily fix the part.

If the thickness of the decoration is more than 100 millimeters, it is necessary to fix it with dowel-nails or ordinary dowels. First, you need to attach the part to the wall and trace it around the contour. Then holes are drilled to install the mounts in the wall and the fly itself. When ordinary dowels are used, the sockets for them are made on the back of the element. In this case, it is impossible for the dowel to reach the outside. On the same side, glue is applied, after which the product is applied to the base of the wall. The dowels are screwed in or driven in with a hammer.

Advice. The joints between parts and structural elements must be filled with sealant. To obtain neat joints, tile crosses are used.

Life time

If you install styrofoam decor on the facade, it will last at least 5 years. It should be noted that the material can be used in humid climates. The product is not afraid of fungus, corrosion or ultraviolet radiation.

Why and in what cases the decor is reinforced

Facade elements are exposed to thermal loads and become damp after rain. Pure foam begins to deteriorate under such conditions. To protect the stucco molding from cracking, it is reinforced. For this purpose, a fiberglass reinforcement mesh is used. Reinforced coating is also quite often used. It is an acrylic or mineral compound with which the workpiece is coated.

Decorative elements made of expanded polystyrene will give individuality even to a house built according to a standard design. Using several types of decorative stucco moldings, you can turn a country cottage into a royal residence. And if you want to change the look of the facade, it will not be difficult to dismantle the decor.

Polyfoam is a versatile polymer material. It is used for packaging for the transportation of fragile bulky goods, lifebuoys and insulation panels for residential buildings.

Recently, styrofoam facade decor has also become widespread in construction. Due to its low weight and ease of processing, this material has become very popular with modern architects.

Finishing the facade of a residential building with foam allows them to simultaneously perform 2 tasks: to improve the appearance of the dwelling and to insulate the building. In addition, an important factor in the popularity of this material is its low price.

After all, products made from it are much cheaper than structures made of plaster and stone.

You can do the installation of the facade decor made of foam plastic with your own hands. You don't need to have a lot of construction experience for this. It is enough to follow the recommendations below. But it is better to entrust the manufacture of decorative elements from this material to specialists.

Selection of building materials

Foams are a generic name for several polymers with similar properties. Most often, 2 materials are called so - polyurethane foam and expanded polystyrene.

Polyurethane foam is a lightweight polymer with low thermal conductivity and high flashpoint. When burned, it releases urethane, a relatively harmless gas.

Does not emit any toxic substances during operation. It is suitable for both exterior and interior decoration of premises.

Expanded polystyrene is a light material that also has low thermal conductivity, but its ignition temperature is much lower than the ignition temperature of polyurethane foam.

In addition, during combustion, it emits a poisonous substance - styrene, which transforms at high temperatures into phosgene - a combat poisonous gas. This insulation cannot be used for interior decoration.

The choice, of course, is yours, but fire safety experts recommend buying polyurethane foam insulation. It is slightly more expensive than expanded polystyrene, because in this case the price is an indicator of quality.

When buying building materials, you need to choose elements of facade decor from dense foam brands. The higher the density of the facade element, the longer it will last.

How much is it?

The cost of the material depends on the density: the higher the density, the higher the price of the product. The cost of simple panels ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles per 1 m³. The price for finished decorative elements of the facade is from 3000 to 7000 rubles per 1 m³.

For the installation of polymer products you will need:

• polyurethane foam;
• glue gun;
• umbrella dowels up to 15-20 cm long;
• reinforcing mesh;
• acrylic putty;
• facade primer;
• mineral facade plaster;
• facade paint.

Installation of polymer blocks

Decorative finishing of the facade of a house begins with leveling the underlying surfaces, namely walls, window sills, jambs and cornices. Leveling is done with facade plaster using beacons.

In 48 hours after the plaster is dry, decorative polymer blocks can be attached. This should be done on a dry sunny day.

To prevent the slabs from sliding along the glue, it is necessary to temporarily attach wooden strips with self-tapping screws to the bottom of the surfaces to be glued (something like a formwork). The algorithm is as follows:

Using a glue gun, apply polyurethane foam along the inner perimeter of the decorative element of the facade so that after pressing the block to the underlying surface, the glue does not squeeze out.

We press the block against the wall (cornice, jamb, window sill) and leave it for 3 days.

We glue the following blocks of the bottom row. Fill the gaps between the blocks with polyurethane foam.

3 days after the glue has set, we attach the blocks with additional dowels. 5 dowels for each element. We hammer them in the center and in the corners, 5-10 cm from the edges.

After that, we remove the wooden planks and glue the rest of the blocks (row by row, from bottom to top).

After 3 days, we additionally fix them with dowels.

Then we dry the resulting decor for 2 days.

After that, we reinforce the elements of the facade decor with a metal or synthetic mesh, primer and dry again.

After 3 days, we will plaster the polymer blocks and paint them.

This completes the finishing of the facade of the house with foam plastic.

Since time immemorial architecture has been a part of culture, its masterpieces fascinate and inspire us with beauty, grandeur of forms and details. The facade of a house is like clothing, and today it can tell a lot about the status and tastes of its owners, because the first impression of any building is created depending on how it looks from the outside.

The architectural relief decoration, which has a very long history, plays an important role in the formation of the facade. Exquisite building decorations have been used for centuries, since the days of ancient civilizations. If centuries ago architects decorated only palaces, castles and museums, now, thanks to new materials such as expanded polystyrene, rich decoration has become more affordable.

Today, expanded polystyrene (EPS) shapes the design of many building projects. In the 1950s, this material was recognized as the main insulating material, and later it became a powerful tool in the creation of durable design elements. Its benefits are undeniable!

1. The characteristics of this lightweight building material make it reusable.
2. The relatively low cost of decorative styrofoam products can significantly reduce financial costs.
3. The production time for the decor from this light, air-filled plastic is much shorter than the production time for elements from concrete, plaster and stone.
4. The light weight of the parts makes it easy to ship to site.
5. The wide range of colors in the design allows the use of styrofoam architectural decorations for the decoration of a wide variety of buildings.
6. Decorative elements covered with a waterproofing protective layer have excellent weather resistance.
7. The decor can be flexible, it is not affected by ultraviolet rays and moisture, it does not shrink.
8. Facade profiles and elements are perfectly combined with textured plaster and clinker tiles, they are easy to install and safe to work with.

The latest polymer elements are becoming an integral part of many buildings, both residential and public. They are fixed on the facade with special glue, larger and heavier forms can be additionally fixed.

Individual styrofoam modules in the design solution can be combined according to style, project specifics and personal taste. At the same time, modern facade decorations are often exact copies of the original forms of the past, therefore they are successfully used in the restoration of old houses, architectural and historical monuments built in different centuries - old facade decorations destroyed and covered with cracks can be completely replaced with EPS elements of the same shape and sizes.

Common types of architectural elements made of expanded polystyrene

Decorative columns

Columns made of polymer materials are not part of architectural structures in modern construction, they are absolutely decorative. These elements can be rectangular and circular, and their sizes and styles are also different. Like classic columns, they have three parts - a base, a body and a capital. In some cases, metal supports are decorated with expanded polystyrene elements or hidden pipes are decorated.

Prices for various types of decorative columns

Decorative columns

Pilasters

A pilaster is an architectural element that is used in classical architecture to give the appearance of a support in the decorative articulation of walls. Externally, the pilaster is very similar to a column, but it is, in fact, a decorative ledge, its shape is not volumetric, but embossed. The pilaster parts are exactly the same as the column parts, they are all purchased separately.

Architectural profiles

Architectural profiles can be of different types and shapes, and they perform different functions.

Profile assignment	Appearance
Facade cornice is the main decorative element of the building facade. Depending on the location, this profile can be a cornice between floors and a cornice located under the roof. The size and shape of this profile is selected in strict, modular interdependence.
Horizontal decorative profiles, the function of which, unlike cornices, is dividing, they are used to outline or divide different levels of a building.
Window sill elements of external decoration, which are installed at the base of window openings.
Decorative profiles of various sizes and shapes, which are usually used for decoration at the edges and corners of door and window openings.
Profiles for imitation of "rustic siding" on the facade. Such rustication will beautifully complement the overall design solution. You can produce: - laying alternately rustic stones of various sizes, - laying the rustication horizontally, - laying at regular intervals.

Gables

The pediment is found in classical Greek temples, in Renaissance masterpieces and in neoclassical architecture. This element usually has the shape of a triangle surrounded by stucco on three sides. The field of the pediment is often decorated with sculptures.

Prices for finished facade cornices

Facade cornices

Arches

Arches are structures that, as a rule, have a semi-cylindrical shape; they are used as a decorative element above doors and windows, to decorate false windows, between two columns or columns.

These elements in architecture can be called cornerstones, they are installed at the top of an arch or vault. Today, such a stone, made of expanded polystyrene, is used to decorate gates, doors, windows, ceilings and much more. Castle stones are endless decorative possibilities. Their wide range of designs makes it easy to create an elegant and trendy home facade, both modern and classic. The stones are made of high quality polystyrene and are easy to install. The special quartz coating makes the part tough and very durable.

This architectural decor is used to decorate the corners of buildings, using it to visually reveal the reliability and strength of structures. Most often, these elements are made in the form of tiles, the edges of which are made with a slight bevel to prevent the accumulation of water and dirt in the grooves.

Balustrades

Balustrades surround structures of stairs, terraces, balconies and the like. They consist of a parapet supported by curly posts. They are also used to decorate buildings, creating a special impression of respectability and stability. Often, balustrades are used to visually support windows.

Prices for balustrade elements

Balustrades

It is a circular or oval ornamental design, often in the shape of an open flower. The Rosetta is part of the ornate facades.

Decorative stucco molding made of polyurethane foam

Decorative imitation wood

Wood-like decorative elements bring comfort and coziness, with their help you can easily recreate the ethnic style.

Features of the production of decor

The modern process of modeling polymer architectural decorations is quite different from what it was in ancient times, but the visual effect is not inferior to the aesthetics of more expensive predecessors. The raw material for the decor, which was traditionally made by hand from stone, cast from plaster and concrete, was chosen with a density of 25-35 kg per cubic meter, gas-filled and very light weight.

The part is formed on a programmed machine by thermal cutting. Therefore, absolutely any idea can be easily implemented. First, specialists model an architectural element in a computer program, and then it is cut on a machine, taking into account radial mates and the most accurate dimensions. The machines literally copy the designed model, after which a composition with protective properties is applied to the part. Often, the strength of architectural details during production is reinforced with a mesh that protects the element from any negative influences. Further, the decor is covered with a cement-glue layer (1-6 mm) with various fillers and reinforcing microfibers. It is this coating that protects the decor from UV, moisture, it resists low temperatures and gives vapor permeability.

Mounting

Before proceeding with the decor of the facades, they develop a project. To do this, a rough sketch is first created that reflects the real shape and size of the building. Then the search for an idea begins. Architectural details can be formed from various elements, they must have the appropriate proportions and be positioned so that the appearance of the house changes for the better. To do this, you can rely on an inner sense of harmony or study the proportions of the "Golden Section". The final design stage is a scaled drawing that can be produced on a computer or manually.

Installation includes three main steps: cutting, gluing and painting.

When ordering items, you need to calculate the number of meters or the number of pieces of the product, then you can independently calculate the price of the product. When measuring windows or doors, remember that the length of each edge must be ordered with a margin. All columns and pilasters are sold separately and glued when placed.

Before installation, profiles, cornices, moldings and other elements should be laid out in a dry place on a flat surface, away from heating appliances. Parts are not stacked tightly on top of each other. The maximum profile dimensions can be 200 cm long and 120 cm high. The experience and opinion of the masters indicate that the most acceptable choice of profile strips with a length of about 50 cm. Strips of this length are easier to install. Installation of curtain rods with a length of about 200 cm is more expensive due to the time required and the need for two people for installation.

The profiles are cut at angles in the range of 90-45 degrees. Tolerance + - 5 mm. Straight cuts can be made with a saw, or can be cut with a knife or circular saw.

Attention! Facade profiles and expanded polystyrene elements can only be used as decoration, they cannot bear any load on the structure.

Required tools:

• hacksaw,
• measuring instruments,
• miter box,
• putty knife,
• brush,
• pencil,
• sandpaper.

Step 1. Preparatory work

Before installing the elements, markings are carried out on the facade according to the project, using a level, tape measure and other devices. It is best to start installation at a temperature of 5-30 ° C.

Step 2. Cleaning

The surface is thoroughly cleaned of dirt and plaster, old paint is removed with solvents.

Step 3. Alignment

The surface is ideally leveled with mineral facade filler. Then the finishing layers are applied, all cracks and defects are eliminated.

Prices for popular types of putty

Putties

Step 4. Fixing the decor

Architectural elements are attached with glue, and sometimes a reinforcing mesh is used to enhance adhesion. Often, glue is recommended by decor manufacturers who know the features of their product. Typically, a high-performance adhesive for expanded polystyrene elements, with high adhesion, has a polymer base, it is designed for many weather cycles. Today, various types of glue of good quality have been created, they are simultaneously used in the construction of thermal insulation systems of buildings, for example, this is "Adesilex P9 Mapei".

The master must apply a composition of glue specially designed for installation to the back of the element with a notched trowel, after which the architectural detail is carefully pressed to the place of its attachment. For large elements, various fasteners are used during installation. We must not forget that large, protruding elements need to be protected by ebb tides.

Step 5. Docking elements

The outer edges of the profiles, if they are joined, are placed at a distance of 5 mm. After 12 hours, the gap left is filled with a solution that is used in insulation systems.

Attention! Silicone should not be used because the paint will not cover it.

The joints of the façade profiles with other elements of the façade, such as window sills, sills or wooden parts, are always filled with a flexible sealant. At the end of the installation, it is necessary to check the tightness of the joints of all combinations of elements; any gap should be carefully filled with a special compound. Irregularities are treated with sandpaper.

Video - Installation of facade decor - large cornices

Video - Facade decor - step-by-step installation instructions

Painting

After fixing all the elements, a primer is made, and then painting in the selected color using a roller or brush. First you need to protect the walls around the part to be painted. For this, masking tape is used, which can be easily removed after painting. Before work, the surface should be primed with diluted paint (approx. 10-20% water).

Then the dried surface is covered with paint a second time using the thick original composition. The operation can be repeated if necessary.

Some of the organic solvents are capable of dissolving the materials to which they are applied. Therefore, when choosing a paint for expanded polystyrene, you need to pay attention to its composition. If you are not sure how the paint will go, you can experiment on a small piece of the profile.

White facades are versatile, suitable for both modern and classic buildings. White gives the impression of purity and novelty. The second most popular facade color is all shades of yellow. The yellow façade has a warm, illuminated character and evokes positive emotions, it is ideal for single-storey houses, as warm, sunny tones go well with all the characteristic colors of the roof.

The facade is rightfully considered the "face" of the house. Therefore, it should look very beautiful and presentable. Its decor is made of different materials, but recently expanded polystyrene is gaining more and more popularity. The article will talk about the nuances, advantages and installation of foam parts.

Advantages of styrofoam decor

Expanded polystyrene is now held in high esteem by builders and designers. Decorating a residential building with this lightweight and practical material allows you to solve 2 problems at once: to warm the room and decorate it. In addition, the material ensures ease of installation and durability.

Elements for the facade made of expanded polystyrene are gradually replacing decorations made of plaster and concrete, which are bulky and heavy. After all, the presence of the latter on the building greatly increases the load on the foundation and load-bearing walls, which requires their additional strengthening.

If we compare the decor made of expanded polystyrene with similar details made of plaster and wood, then there is also an obvious advantage of the former - it is not afraid of high humidity. In addition, the material is not afraid of the effects of alkali, acid and mineral oils.

Expanded polystyrene is easily attached to the walls using plaster or cement mortar and mastic. If desired, the facade is easy to arrange yourself.

Attention! Having painted the stucco in the correct shade, you can favorably set off the color and texture of the walls of the house or play in contrast.

The material is completely odorless, mold fungi and putrefactive bacteria do not settle on it. Expanded polystyrene does not burn well, there are no harmful compounds in its composition. The decor can be installed both outside the building and from the inside. This is a great option for the restoration of old houses.

As a facade decoration, expanded polystyrene is suitable for use in regions with different climates. It does not react to either high or low temperatures. If you wish, you can order non-repeating shapes that will add originality to the house.

How to make styrofoam decor

The material that will be used as stucco molding on the facade of the building must have special qualities. Therefore, a special technology is used for its manufacture.

Manufacturers make a kind of any facing material from foam, for example, stone, wood, gypsum. Such imitation is visually difficult to distinguish from natural decor.

Advice. Styrofoam stones can be used in the corners of the house. The result is a very beautiful relief due to the protrusions of the decorative elements relative to the walls.

Varieties of decorating elements and rules for their installation

There are a lot of elements serving as facade decor, as you can see in the photo. Common names are:

To install the decor from expanded polystyrene with your own hands, you need to adhere to the following rules:

• Walls, window sills, jambs and cornices, that is, all surfaces on which expanded polystyrene will be attached will need to be carefully leveled. For this purpose, facade plaster is used.
• Next, you should wait until all treated surfaces are completely dry. This usually takes about 2 days.
• Marking is carried out using a level and a plumb line.
• Fix the polystyrene foam to the base. Mounting glue or foam is applied to the back side. The prepared element is pressed with force to the intended place. In this case, leave a gap of 2-3 mm between adjacent parts.

Advice. To avoid slipping of the decor on the glue, you can temporarily attach wooden planks on the underside.

• After 3 days, when the expanded polystyrene sticks well, the parts are additionally fixed with dowels.
• The joints are filled with a compound intended for sealing joints. Leave to dry for several days.
• At the end of the installation, decorative elements are primed and painted.

Styrofoam decor is ideal for ennobling the facade. From the financial point of view, this is not at all expensive, and the work of fixing the decor can easily be done by yourself.

Making decor for the facade: video