Introduction
In May 2023, the National Construction Code (NCC) introduced stricter weatherproofing and waterproofing requirements, pushing the building industry to meet higher standards for safety, functionality, and durability. Over the past year, architects have increasingly grappled with these changes, seeking solutions that ensure compliance while maintaining their creative vision.
The challenge is clear: How do you ensure compliance without compromising your creative vision? For decades, the default solution has been paint—a functional but uninspiring approach that often limits design possibilities.
At ECOTONE, we believe compliance and creativity can coexist. Our long-life coatings do more than protect. They empower architects to reimagine concrete facades with endless design possibilities. Whether preserving the raw beauty of concrete or transforming it into premium architectural finishes, our ECOTONE coatings make compliance part of the creative process.
The traditional, uninspiring paint jobs
For too long, weatherproofing has been treated as a technical checkbox—a requirement met with uninspired, utilitarian solutions like paint. These flat, predictable finishes often limit the creative potential of architects, leaving facades functional but forgettable.
Not to mention, there are several drawbacks architects must consider:
- Limited Creative Freedom
Paint acts as a blanket, concealing the raw appeal of materials like concrete or timber. This forces architects to compromise their vision, sacrificing unique designs for functionality. - Short-Term Durability
Weather conditions in Australia, from harsh sunlight to heavy rain, quickly wear down painted surfaces. Faded facades, cracks, and peeling become common, leading to costly maintenance cycles and diminished aesthetics. - Missed Opportunities
Architects aiming for modern, minimalist facades or bold, textural finishes are constrained by paint’s lack of versatility. Instead of celebrating materials, paint forces designs into uniformity.
To learn more about the benefits of stains vs paint, read our blog on the Enduring Appeal of Stains over Paint: A thoughtful comparison.
At ECOTONE, we believe compliance shouldn’t limit creativity. Instead, weatherproofing can become a design tool, opening doors to bold, innovative facades that inspire while protecting.
Preserving Raw Concrete
For many architects, raw concrete is an intentional design choice—a material that conveys strength, texture, and industrial elegance. However, exposure to harsh weather, pollutants, and UV damage can cause premature aging, leading to discolouration, water damage, and surface degradation.
With ECOTONE’s advanced long-life coatings, architects can preserve the authentic character of concrete while ensuring compliance with NCC weatherproofing and waterproofing standards. Unlike paint, our coatings work with concrete’s natural porosity, creating a breathable, protective barrier that enhances its durability without altering its character.
- Maintain the raw aesthetic – Our clear protective coatings shield concrete without altering its texture or appearance.
- Long-term durability – Prevents cracking, staining, and erosion, reducing the need for costly repairs.
- Moisture & UV protection – Stops water ingress and fading, keeping facades looking fresh for years.
- Compliance without compromise – Fully breathable coatings ensure buildings meet NCC standards while maintaining their original design intent.
With ECOTONE, raw concrete stays timeless—without the risk of early deterioration.
Transforming Concrete: A new look without structural change
Concrete doesn’t have to remain raw—it can be completely reimagined. Whether it’s blending with other materials inside or outside of the building or making a bold architectural statement, ECOTONE turns concrete into a design tool rather than just a structural element.
- Seamlessly match existing internal or external finishes – Concrete can be adapted to blend with other materials on the building.
- Mimic high-end finishes – Achieve the look of natural stone, timber, brick, or metal without the added cost, maintenance and weight.
- Create monolithic materiality – Ensure internal and external surfaces flow seamlessly with uniform colour and texture.
- Compliance without compromise – Meet your design intent while remaining NCC compliant.
By leveraging ECOTONE’s coatings, architects can redefine a building’s finish—without the hassle.
How we deliver the WOW experience
At ECOTONE, we don’t just apply coatings. We collaborate with architects to bring their designs to life. Every ECOTONE project is powered by our Customer Experience Design (CXD) process, ensuring your vision comes to life with precision and purpose:
- Consultation & Vision Boards – We review samples, images, and architectural plans to understand your aesthetic and technical requirements.
- Sample Creation – We develop bespoke coatings and finishes for your approval.
- Review & Approval – We refine the samples until they meet your design intent.
- Application – Our expert applicator team applies coatings with precision for flawless results.
- Review & Support – We conduct post-application checks and ongoing support to ensure long-term performance.
Through CXD, your project isn’t just weatherproof- it’s a bold architectural statement.
Watch our CXD process explained.
To understand our CXD process in more detail, read this blog on CXD – Our key to bringing creative freedom to architecture.
Conclusion
Weatherproofing doesn’t have to limit your creativity—it can elevate it. With ECOTONE, architects can design boldly, create fearlessly, and protect confidently. Architects can preserve the raw beauty of concrete, transform facades with bespoke finishes, and comply seamlessly with NCC standards.
Have a project in mind? Let’s redefine what’s possible.
