FAQ

We, at Paradigm Products, through the course of our efforts to promote the use of Swisspearl™ in rain-screen designs, have found that there are several typical questions that we receive from architects who are using our product for the first time.  In this section, we will attempt to answer, briefly, the most common questions that we have encountered in our efforts to educate the architectural community.

What is Swisspearl?

Swisspearl ™  is a "just-in time" manufactured fiber reinforced cementitious panel for rain-screen facades.

What is "rain-screen"?

A slightly more difficult concept to answer here briefly.  However, in summary, a rain-screen facade system is a type of facade that allows for the passive handling of humidity within the wall.   It allows for the evacuation of humidity from within the building as well as the passive handling of whatever little moisture that penetrates the facade wall.   It was a concept that was developed in response to the common issue known as "sick building syndrome" which is the result of a build-up of mildew and rot within a building due to trapped excess moisture.  The Swisspearl™ system is known as a "simple" or rear-ventilated rain-screen system.

Can I use this product in other ways? IE, as floors or countertops?

No.  Installation of Swisspearl™ must be done according to the requirements in our Design and Installation Manual.  For any further questions in this area please consult us.

Can we order a custom color for our panels?

That depends on the size of your proposed project.   There are no custom color options for projects under 5500 sq ft.  For projects from approximately 5500 sq. ft up to 11000 sq. ft.  there is a small additional charge.   And for projects of 11000 sq. ft and upwards there is a custom color option free of charge.  

I would like to use Swisspearl™ on my project. What is the “lead time” for the product?

The lead time that we generally find to be appropriate for deliveries is a minimum of 12-14 weeks from the date of submission of the initial order AND 50% deposit.   However a more accurate description would be a minimum of 8-10 weeks from the date of submission of the final cutlist.  The 4 week difference between the two times accounts for the minimum amount of time required to cut and cure the panels. Please be aware that this is a minimum length of time and that other factors (such as coordinating with other possible shipments, amount of time it takes to generate the final cutlist) may increase the lead time.  Please have your contractor contact us as early as possible so as to ensure that your delivery arrives in time for your needs.

I am a homeowner and would like to use your product on my house. Do you sell for residential applications and if so, how do I get some samples so I can make a decision?

First of all, thank you for your interest in our product.  Yes, we do sell our product for residential use.  However, we have recently implemented a minimum order requirement of 1000 sq ft or more so please bear that in mind.   If you would like to see some samples of the material, please have the architect on your project contact us to consult with us about the project.   Please do not contact us directly, as we prefer to work with the architect, as it allows us to ensure that the warrantable conditions and requirements of our Design & Installation Manual are adhered to.

Can the panels be attached directly to the wall through an epoxy or glue?

No, all fastening must be done according the requirements of the most current Design & Installation Manual.  And All fasteners must be supplied by the Swisspearl™ factory.

Can Swisspearl be used on the interior of projects?

Yes, as long as an airspace is maintained behind the panel, then it can be installed on interior applications.  Please consult with us in order to work out the details of interior applications.

What is the life expectancy of SWISSPEARL?

We expect the panels to last for at least 50 years.  The first 5 years the panels will have 100% warranty on the material  and 100% on labor and the second 5  years, 100% of the panels and a declining scale for the labor which begins at  50%   and ends at  10% .

What’s SWISSPEARL made of?

Air, Water, Limestone, Portland cement, Reinforcement fibers and Process fibers.

 

 That’s it.