Material Spotlight: Equitone fibre cement façade

Here at MasterPLAN Outdoor Living, we aim to create timeless outdoor living projects that include three the primarily sophisticated materials: wood, metal and stone.  These materials not only provide a beautiful aesthetic to each project, but the materials themselves will stand the test of time.  This durability lends to the low-maintenance nature of our designs and the aesthetic completely complements the architecture of the home.  However, from time to time, a particularly modern home will hit our desks and homeowners that love all that is contemporary and sleek desire materials that reflect.  While wood, stone and metal still fall in line with an avant-garde style of home, we are always on the lookout for new or improved materials to incorporate into our projects that would work in such a scenario.  We have found that Equitone fibre cement veneer checks all the boxes when it comes to longevity with a modern twist.

Company-described as a material “by and for architects”, this veneer may look ultra-contemporary, but these façade panels have been in production since the 1950s.  While the style and application may have changed to fit the times, the process has remained the same.  Each Equitone panel has color incorporated throughout and is unique in that they show the raw texture of the fibre cement base material.  The makeup of this cement-composite material consists of cement, cellulose and mineral materials which are reinforced by a visible matrix.  This untreated texture gives the product its initial exceptional character, but the real interest comes when customized for application.

Being that this façade material has color throughout, it can offer complete design flexibility because it doesn’t show any difference in aggregate, no matter how it is cut.  Maximum panel size is approx. 4’ x 10’ and can be transformed into any shape or size, can be perforated, embossed and even printed.  This modern material is manufactured into 5 different styles, perfect to fit any treatment:

• Materia:  This is the rawest looking of all 5 styles.  Sort of reminiscent of a rough or worn cardboard, the surface looks untouched yet precisely rugged.  Encompassing the characteristics of cement, the textured surface also looks as if it were to feel velvety.  Honestly, it just begs to be touched to figure it out!  While only available in a mid-hue grey or brownish-khaki, its subtle texture will offer subtle shade variations throughout the day to give it vague dimension.
• Linea: This Equitone style is so novel and unique.  These panels offer a linear 3D texture that plays with light and shadow to give it added stark dimension.  As the sun moves throughout the day, the changing daylight angle shows a different shadow forecast, keeping its aesthetic interestingly alive!  This veneer comes in 3 colors: an off-white, mid-grey and dark grey.
• Tectiva:  This veneer has a very debonair look stemming from its sanded surface and naturally occurring material hues.  If this veneer were a textile, it would be a slim-fitting, sharp-cut suit with a skinny tie to finish…oo-la-la!  Available in 8 colors, this is where we start to see the color potential of the line.  Ranging in color from very light grey, brown-grey, blue-grey and pewter, an outdoor application can only be highlighted in sophistication when donned in this façade!
• Natura: While this Equitone style seems to be the most reserved out of the lot, it makes up for its clean and polished aesthetic with color!  Available in a jump of 26 shades ranging from off-white, browns and greys to shades of khaki, blue-grey and red!  However, if you’re looking to really stand out, the last style may be right up your alley…
• Pictura: This fibre cement veneer is ultra-matte with a sleek architectural finish.  This style can be color matched with thousands of options.  This is the most versatile style, as it can perforated or printed and be made to any color within your imagination.  If you find that your outdoor living space needs a particular built-in pop of color, this is your ticket to a true conversation starter!

No matter the style, the Equitone panels have a number of installation options to fit the clients needs.  From hidden support structures to riveting and backfix options, when properly installed, the life expectancy is at least 50 years!  For applications not subjected to the elements 24/7, the longevity grows.  On the same note, this material is resistant to extreme weather conditions and temperatures, perfect to withstand our crazy snow storms and intense mid-summer heat!  Lightweight, durable, resistant to fire, pests, insects, molds and fungi, this veneer is about as low-maintenance as you can get.

As we do our best to describe these highlighted materials as best we can, these Equitone veneer samples should surely be seen in person.  Be sure to ask your MasterPLAN designer to bring samples along when it is time to select final materials for your project!  We pride ourselves on presenting all options to our clients, this way we can see what fits their property, lifestyle and budget best!

Serving the Poconos, Lehigh Valley through the Main Line of Philadelphia and western New Jersey, MasterPLAN would love to sit down and chat about your motivation behind your own backyard transformation!  Together, we can explore this journey together and make the best decision for your family and your home.  When you are ready to uncover the true potential of your property to bring added joy to your loved ones, reach out to MasterPLAN!  We would love to hear from you and welcome you into the family.