Frequently Asked Questions
					 Does the process of installing decorative finishes create a mess? 
							
			
			
		
						
				We will not damage or leave a mess in your home. We take site protection very seriously and we will treat your home as if it is our own. Before we begin working we will protect your floors and mask off any area that is necessary. After your project is complete we will remove the masking and thoroughly clean the space.
					 What is it like to hire Grandecco? 
							
			
			
		
						
				When you contact us about your project we will respond to your initial message as soon as possible. We will answer any questions you have and we can schedule a time for us to come to your home or to discuss the details of your project. This meeting will be approximately thirty minutes, depending on the scale of your project. We can, of course, take more time if you are available and have more questions. Scheduling an estimate can be done online here. During our meeting, we will discuss what you are looking to do with your space, colors, timeline, and general expectations. We will bring samples to give you a better idea of how the finished product will look and feel. At the end of our meeting we will give you a detailed estimate for the work to be done. If you decide to move forward with the project, you will have the opportunity to place a deposit and schedule a time for us to do the work. Before we begin working, we will make a sample with the exact color, product, and process we will be using on your project. We will show you the sample on the first day of work to confirm everything looks as you expected.
The day before your project begins we will contact you to confirm that we are coming. On the first day, we will come to your home or business at our scheduled time. The first thing we will do is take pictures of your space so that when our work is complete, we can replace the furniture and artwork where it was originally. Next, we will move the furniture out of the way and cover it with plastic. Then we will cover the floors and tape any areas that are necessary to protect the surfaces in your home. On delicate surfaces such as paint and newly finished wood floors, we will use a low adhesive tape so we do not damage any existing finishes. Once everything is protected, we will prepare the walls or ceiling for our finish and apply the primer or base coat. After the first layer of the finish is complete, we will clean up the work area before leaving for the day. The first day usually takes the longest due to the amount of preparation. If your walls are in very rough shape, they may require more preparation to make them smooth enough for a decorative finish. Generally, high gloss/smooth finishes require more prep work than matte/textured finishes.
The following days we will continue the work, updating you with the progress along the way and cleaning up the space at the end of each day. When your project is complete, we will do a walkthrough together to confirm you are happy with the work. Then we will remove all the masking, clean the space, and move your furniture and artwork back into place.
					 Do decorative finishes require any kind of special care or cleaning?  
							
			
			
		
						
				Generally, no. In most cases decorative finishes can be gently wiped with a damp, clean, non-abrasive cloth – the same way an ordinarily painted wall would be cleaned. If you are unsure how to clean a particular area, please contact us and we will help you with the process.
					 How do I find out more information? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Please do not hesitate to reach out to us for any questions you have, even if you are not planning a project at this time. Contact us here, or call/text (631) 213-1987.
Venetian Plaster
					 What is Venetian plaster? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Authentic Venetian plaster is a decorative wall coating that has been used for centuries. It is composed of lime putty, marble dust, and pigments. “Venetian plaster” also refers to the method of application. The plaster is a dense paste that is spread into thin, consecutive layers using a stainless steel trowel.
					 How much does Venetian plaster cost? 
							
			
			
		
						
				The price of Venetian plaster ranges between $10 – $25 per square foot of wall or ceiling area. The cost depends on the type of finish, the amount of prep work required, and other factors.
					 What is so special about Venetian plaster? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Venetian plaster has a visual depth and luminosity unlike any other wall finish. It is luxurious and it creates a feeling of warmth that surrounds you. It is timeless, versatile, and durable. It is highly customizable to work with the existing look of any space.
In addition to its aesthetic value, Venetian plaster is biodegradable, mold resistant, and it contains zero VOCs. It also to helps regulate humidity by naturally releasing and absorbing moisture to and from the air.
					 How long does Venetian plaster last? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Venetian plaster is expected to last a lifetime. After it has cured the surface is very hard and durable. Occasional touch ups may be necessary if the plaster is located in an extremely high traffic area or if the walls are damaged.
					 How is Venetian plaster manufactured? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Limestone, also known as calcium carbonate, is heated in a large furnace to produce calcium oxide. This produces lime powder that is the basis for Venetian plaster.
Water is then added to the lime powder and the mixture is aged for a minimum of one year. The result of this process is hydrated slaked lime putty, also known as calcium hydroxide.
The lime putty is then mixed with marble powder to improve hardness and surface quality, as well as a small percentage of modifiers to improve its workability.
After the plaster is applied to the wall, the water evaporates off the surface and the plaster dries. Over time, the plaster absorbs carbon dioxide from the air and it hardens back into its original stone form.
					 How do you clean Venetian plaster? 
							
			
			
		
						
				We always apply a sealer or wax to protect the plaster, but sometimes accidents happen. If you need to clean a spot on your wall, be sure to use a clean white cloth (to prevent color bleeding from the cloth), a mild detergent, and warm water. Using light pressure, gently wipe the wall in circular motions until it is clean. If you are unsure how to clean a particular area, please contact us and we will help you with the process.
					 How long does it take to install Venetian plaster? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Typically 2-5 days for a small job. The exact amount of time depends on the scale of the project, the type of finish desired, and amount of preparation required.
					 Will I be able to see my color and finish before it is installed? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Yes. After we receive the plaster for your project from our supplier, we will use it to make a sample. We will show you the sample before we begin working so you will have the opportunity to approve the finish for installation.
					 Can Venetian plaster be tinted to any color? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Yes. The company from which I source my plaster will match the color of any swatch or physical sample. This includes colors from Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, Farrow & Ball, etc.
					 What is the process of installing Venetian plaster? 
							
			
			
		
						
				This varies depending on the specific product or type of finish but here is a general idea of the process:
- Floors, moldings, windows, etc. are masked so they are not damaged during the application.
- The walls (and/or ceiling) are inspected for imperfections, then patched and sanded as needed. In the case of extremely uneven walls or severe damage, a skim coat of the entire surface may be recommended.
- The surface is primed. The primer is specifically designed for the type of plaster being used.
- The plaster is applied using a trowel, one layer at a time. Each layer of plaster must be dry before the next layer is applied.
- Before the last layer of plaster has completely dried, it is burnished with a stiff trowel. This process compresses the surface, which makes it smooth and dense, giving the plaster its characteristic look.
- A natural sealer or wax is applied to protect the plaster from dirt, oils, and water.
- The masking is removed, the work area is cleaned, and the room is returned to how it was before we began working.
Limewash
					 What is limewash? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Limewash is a paint made of natural lime, water, and pigment. It features softly blended light and dark areas to create a naturally mottled effect. The look and composition of limewash is similar to matte Venetian plaster, but it is applied with a brush rather than a trowel.
					 Why limewash? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Limewash is an elegant finish that is visually similar to Venetian plaster but it is more economical to install. Also, it is non-toxic, contains zero VOCs, is mold resistant, and helps regulate humidity.
					 Can limewash be tinted to any color? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Limewash can be tinted to almost any color. Very deep or dark colors (such as a bright red or true black) are difficult to achieve because limewash is a naturally white base.
					 How do you clean limewash? 
							
			
			
		
						
				Limewash is porous so it is not the most washable finish available. Minor damage can be corrected by lightly sanding the area with fine sandpaper (400 grit is recommended). If you are in need of something that is truly washable, it can be finished with a transparent matte sealer.
We also offer faux limewash, which is more washable than unsealed limewash. Faux limewash is done with high-quality acrylic latex paint, applied in a way to make it look authentic.
					 How much does limewash cost? 
							
			
			
		
						
				The price of limewash ranges between $4 – $8 per square foot of wall or ceiling area. The cost depends on the type of finish, the amount of prep work required, and other factors.
