I recently spent a great deal of time trying to determine where a polished plaster product (Armourcoat Perlata) falls into LEED. I thought I would share my findings here in hopes to clear up some confusion regarding this type of product.

It is not a true plaster, yet it is a three-step process. Our spec writer suggested it adhere to the VOC requirements of paint in LEED, I suggested it was a specialty coating, the mnaufacturer has cleared up the issue below. Direct from the manufacturer:

"From a recent council and review meeting with Planing Rule Development for Southcoast AQMD, the Armourcoat Perlata Decorative Specialty Finish Coatings were reviewed and discussed with compliance inspectors and staff. From this review, based on our product datasheets for Perlata , it falls under the Japan/Faux Finishing Coatings. This is based on the fact that Perlata it is a three part system with the middle part, Perlata being the faux specialty coating finish. The basecoat and clear top coats for the system would be categorized as either a non-flat or flat coating depending on the gloss level."