The Plasterers’ Union Local 8 has instituted a Green Products Initiative Program.  This program is intended to promote the use of environmentally responsible plaster materials and methods through education, marketing strategies, and Contractor Certification cards.

Education is the first phase of the Green Products Initiative.  It has been under the general perception that plastering is a lost or dying art.  The reality cannot be further from the truth.  The Plasterers’ Union Local 8 has been a national leader in education and training in our industry.  Apprentices at our training center not only learn the newest materials and methods but are still taught the old world skills that built some of America’s greatest landmarks.  Another misconception is that plastering takes too long and is difficult to renovate.  Again, this cannot be further from the truth.  Veneer plaster systems have been installed in commercial buildings for over 50 years.  They offer rapid completion times as compared to standard drywall finishing techniques plus are more abuse resistant.  Conventional plaster systems have stood the test of time and can be patched or skim coated.  Using this alternative, as opposed to demolishing and replacing with a standard drywall system, building owners will keep more of the original building fabric and use less landfill space.  A third misconception is that plastering systems have nothing new to offer.  Let’s take a look.  E.I.F.S. has been saving building owners energy costs for decades by placing the insulation on the outside of the building.  Traditional insulation systems have a void at the studs and lose their overall R-Value.  New closed cell urethane spray insulations provide a greater R-Value than traditional open cell insulation systems plus offer a seamless air barrier without emitting harmful VOCs and ozone depleting materials.  Earth plasters are one of the original sustainable building products and have one of the lowest carbon footprint of any interior finish product on the market.  More information will follow on these pages in the near future. 

Our marketing strategy is simple; use our plaster systems in your building or building design and enjoy the benefits for a lifetime.  We no longer live in a disposable society.  Every aspect of building design and its impact has been re-examined.  Sometimes, what is old is new again.  We are so sure that architects, general contractors, and building owners will realize the benefits of veneer plaster and Venetian plaster systems, that we are introducing a new market rate for their installation.  Get projects completed faster with less call-backs.  Enjoy the beauty and durability.  Call the Plasterers’ Union Local 8 at 215-852-0730 for more details.

Now that you have decided to incorporate a green plaster product, how do you know that you can rely on your plastering contractor to install your project as per plans and specifications?  How do you know that his/her workers are trained and qualified to install the proper materials and systems?  Just ask to see the card! 

All Certified Local 8 Contractors should present their Identification Card along with each bid package.  These ID Cards will assure the general contractors of the GBCA that they are receiving qualified bids from contractors that are in good standing with the Plasterers’ Union Local 8 and are qualified to install the systems that are under contract with Local 8.

As you can see, the Plasterers’ Union Local 8 Green Product Initiative can give you the systems to make your project green and stay that way. 

If you have any questions or concerns please contact Tom Kilkenny or Bill Taylor at 215-288-4280.