The Application Process For Rhino Shield of Chicagoland
Rhino Shield’s incredible coating and warranty are made possible by our meticulous and detailed application process. It’s second to no other coating application company in Chicagoland. We are experts at the many different exterior surfaces across the greater Chicagoland area.
Take a look at the application process steps below.
Step 1 - Thorough Inspection
A Rhino Shield expert will inspect the project site to evaluate it for coating. This review will highlight areas needing extra care, such as necessary wood or stucco repairs. Based on this analysis, a comprehensive production strategy will be created, outlining the projected finish time, workforce required, and any essential equipment, such as lifts, for the project’s effective completion.
Step 2 - Cleaning and Washing
Every project begins with an extensive cleaning, typically involving a pressure wash. The installation team is committed to preserving the appearance and texture of your surface. By ensuring the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust, oils, mildew spores, algae, and chalking, we guarantee the best possible adhesion for the Rhino Shield coating.
Step 3 - Patching and Repair
Based on the severity of wall damage, we undertake repairs or replacements of all affected areas. This process may involve replacing wood, patching, and repairing stucco. Our aim is to restore the surface to its original state, both for aesthetic purposes and to ensure a successful coating installation.
Step 4 - Scraping
For wooden homes, it’s essential to clear all loose paint and debris. The crew may sand and scrape off paint that can be easily removed. While chemical or mechanical stripping methods are available for paint removal, they’re not required in every case. The objective is to prepare a surface that can effectively bond with both the primer and ceramic finish coats.
Step 5 - Caulking
Caulking plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of a coating installation. Rhino Shield crews use a superior acrylic elastomeric caulk (as opposed to silicone caulk) to fill in small surface cracks, as well as vertical and horizontal seams near doors and windows, to minimize moisture entry. Any old or visibly damaged caulk is removed during this process. It’s important to note that we generally avoid caulking under siding laps to maintain proper ventilation.
Step 6 - Masking
The installation crew may mask, cover, or temporarily remove areas not intended for coating. Commonly removed items include light fixtures, signs, downspouts, window shutters, and mailboxes. Special care is taken to protect roofing, landscaping, lawns, decks, and any areas susceptible to windborne spray.
Step 7 - Priming
The following phase in the Rhino Shield installation involves priming. We conduct a comprehensive priming of the area (rather than spot priming) to seal the surface, enhance water resistance, and serve as a bonding agent for the ceramic finish coat. Initially white when applied, the primer-sealer may dry to a clear finish, depending on the Rhino Shield system used.
Step 8 - Finish Coat Application
The surface is now prepared for the ceramic finish coat, which is applied with a high mil thickness (100 square feet per gallon) for optimal wall protection. Certain areas, particularly those that are porous, might need the ceramic finish coat to be brushed or back rolled. This ceramic coat can be customized with a choice of over 1,500 colors.
Step 9 - Detail Touch-Up
Following the application of the finish coat, any areas with high detail or tight spaces will be touched up to ensure they look their best.
Step 10 - Clean Up
The Dealer installation team aims to restore each job site to its original state upon arrival. They will remove all masking and coverings, replace any fixtures, and clear away any remaining debris.
Step 11 - Final Inspection
After the project finishes, you’ll evaluate the Rhino Shield application alongside the crew chief for ultimate approval. At this moment, we identify any outstanding issues with the installation. Our job isn’t considered fully complete until you’re entirely satisfied with the Rhino Shield application.