Exterior coatings are often viewed as the final visual layer of a building. For concrete structures and rendered façades, however, the coating can also play an important role in substrate protection, durability and long-term appearance.

Micro-cracking, surface ageing, carbonation, dirt pick-up, mould and algae growth can all affect highly visible exterior surfaces. The challenge is to maintain the intended design finish while also addressing the technical demands placed on the façade over time.

Engineered protection

Elastocolor Pittura Zero is an elastomeric coating designed for concrete structures and rendered façades, including projects like bridges, apartments, public buildings and healthcare environments.

Based on acrylic resin in water dispersion, it forms a permanently elastic protective film over the substrate, making it suitable for façades affected by micro-cracking or small deformations.

For reinforced concrete elements, the coating also provides anti-carbonation protection, helping limit the gradual ingress of aggressive atmospheric agents. It's impermeable to water and external contaminants while remaining permeable to water vapour, supporting façade protection without trapping moisture within the substrate.

Resisting mould, algae and surface ageing

Biological growth is another consideration in exposed environments. Elastocolor Pittura Zero is formulated to resist mould and algae growth on coated surfaces and can be used on correctly cleaned and prepared walls previously affected by microorganisms. The formulation also helps reduce dirt pick-up and supports resistance to ageing, freezing conditions and de-icing salts.

Design flexibility without compromising performance

The coating is available in a wide range of colours through Mapei’s ColorMap automatic tinting system, allowing façade protection to be considered alongside the architectural finish.

From Italy to Panama, Norway to Hong Kong, there are hundreds of existing international case studies to inspire domestic projects.

Supporting transparency

For projects with sustainability or material transparency requirements, Elastocolor Pittura Zero is part of the Mapei Zero Line, with CO₂ emissions offset through certified carbon credits. It is also supported by EPD and HPD documentation, helping architects and designers access product information for sustainability-led projects.

Compliance and system performance

Elastocolor Pittura Zero complies with the principles of EN 1504-9 and EN 1504-2 for concrete surface protection systems, supporting projects where façade durability, crack-bridging performance, anti-carbonation protection and environmental documentation are required.