Natural, graceful and versatile, ROCKCOTE Marrakesh is a traditional lime plaster that allows the artisan to create a wide range of decorative and functional finishes.Marrakesh is the ideal product to deliver a smooth, lustrous look with an unrivalled elegant appearance for full interiors, feature walls and columns.

Marrakesh is also known for its ability to deliver seamless finishes, where the smooth curve of one element flows into another, evoking a sense of ease and continuity.

Create a graceful, seamless finish

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What is Marrakesh?ROCKCOTE Marrakesh is a fine-grained lime plaster that can be used interior and exterior including areas of high humidity such as bathrooms and ceilings.It has similar characteristics to the tadelakt lime plasters of Morocco that have been used to coat walls for thousands of years. ROCKCOTE Marrakesh draws on these traditions, with the addition of just enough modern technology to perform exceptionally on contemporary buildings.

A trowelled plaster product, Marrakesh is applied by hand, by a skilled artisan. It is a completely natural, non-toxic material, with no volatile organic compounds, making it ideal for projects where a naturally beautiful finish is sought.

Marrakesh can be worked to a smooth, polished look but many different styles of finish including a more rustic aesthetics can be achieved by using different tools and finishing techniques.

Marrakesh as a decorative finishDecorative finishes are for ornamental and aesthetic purposes such as interior walls, feature walls, fireplace surrounds and columns.Marrakesh offers a wide range of looks as a decorative finish – from a textured rustic feel to a lustrous polished finish.

It can add appeal as a feature finish for sculpted bedheads, handcrafted dado rails, fireplace surrounds, columns and entry areas. The plaster formulation gives artisans the freedom to tailor edges to personal preference - from soft, rounded corners to the full bullnose natural look.

Marrakesh is the ideal product to deliver a smooth, flat, concrete look for the interior or exterior of contemporary homes or commercial properties, adding a little more warmth than standard concrete due to its natural patina.

Use Interior and exterior

Base Lime

Package contents Dry, bagged product

Total film build 2-4mm

Finish/grain Fine

Colour Natural white

Finishes Rustic, Smooth or Lustre

Undulations Level Finish, Lightly Undulating

SubstratesExternal: all masonry substratesInternal: suitable for most substratesRefer to ROCKCOTE Systems Guide

Applied with Plastering trowel

Finished with Plastering trowel, Japanese trowel or Marrakesh polishing stone

Technical Information

Popular uses for Marrakesh as a decorative finish:

› fireplace surrounds

› stairwells

› reception areas and desks

› feature walls

› columns

› full interiors

› exterior features

Marrakesh can be used to create a wide range of decorative finishes from a stylish polished

finish to a textured concrete look.

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Concrete look interior-exterior Marrakesh wall

Marrakesh concrete look fireplace surround Marrakesh polished stairwell (black section) Marrakesh leather look reception desk

DECORATIVE FINISHES

For bench tops and splashbacksWith similar characteristics to marble, a Marrakesh bench top or splashback can be a stunning addition to an indoor or outdoor kitchen, barbecue area, bar or restaurant.The character and versatility of Marrakesh make it particularly suitable for homes or restaurants where a polished concrete, rustic natural or marble finish is sought.

Marrakesh is not suitable for bench tops where the performance of hard stone such as granite is expected. Marrakesh can mark when knives are used directly on the surface. Its pervious nature means the finish will absorb the colours and nature of the materials and ingredients used on the surface.

Protecting your bench top or splashback › Do not chop food directly on the surface. Always use a cutting board.

› Oils, juices or acidic substances such as wine, fruit juice and tomato sauce can stain the surface so prevent these items coming into direct contact. Wipe up spills immediately.

› Always place a plate under oil or juice containers to catch drips.

› Treat the surface like a fine marble or wood surface: use coasters under hot and cold drinks regardless of whether you are drinking from glasses, bottles or cans.

› Do not place frozen items such as ice blocks directly on the surface.

Sealing Marrakesh for bench tops and splashbacksFor bench tops or splashbacks, after the application of Black Soap, Marrakesh is often sealed naturally with Carnauba Wax to lessen the effects of stains.

To alleviate the issues outlined above, and for a more durable surface, other sealers may be used. Contact ROCKCOTE for guidance on the best option for your project.

Surfaces should be left to cure for a minimum of 28 days. During this period, the surface should be treated very carefully and not used in any way to prevent damage, marks and chips.

With the right care and protection, a Marrakesh bench top will last for many years. However, it is important to follow ROCKCOTE’s Marrakesh Care and Maintenance Guide (see page 10) to ensure you get the best from your surface over a long period of time.

Marrakesh as a functional finishMarrakesh is a stunning addition to functional areas such as bathrooms, kitchens. The application of Marrakesh for functional areas requires a very high standard or workmanship and should only be carried out by an Artisan who has extensive experience in applying Marrakesh for similar applications.Bench tops, splashbacks, and bathroom and shower walls are all under constant scrutiny. It is therefore important to understand the application techniques, appearance characteristics and maintenance requirements for Marrakesh prior to embarking on any project that uses this product in functional areas.

ROCKCOTE recommends significant consultation between the property owner and the Artisan undertaking the work to ascertain whether a suitable finish can be achieved for that particular project.

It is important to note that this product is very similar to a marble finish and should be treated as such.

Due to the nature of this product and depending on the products used to seal the surface, when the surface comes into contact with water, shadows will appear in the same way that they do when water runs over natural stone. These shadows disappear when the surface dries.

Being a natural product, fine hairline cracks may appear over time depending on the substrate, conditions and placement of the product. These are a natural feature and no cause for concern.

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FUNCTIONAL FINISHESFUNCTIONAL FINISHES

When the surface comes into contact with water, shadows will appear in the same way they do

when water runs over natural stone. These shadows disappear

when the surface dries.

Marrakesh bathroom, natural colour, Brisbane QLD Marrakesh concrete look bar, Etsu Izakaya restaurant, QLD

Colour and MarrakeshThe Natural Materials by ROCKCOTE Colour Range consists of specially selected earthy hues, grey tones and beiges, created with powdered oxides.However the options for colouring Marrakesh extend far beyond this colour range and colours can be created for specific projects by the ROCKCOTE colour team or your Artisan.

Colour selection and tinting: › Alkali-resistant oxides must be used to ensure the life of the colour. These are available for purchase from ROCKCOTE or our distributors.

› The method of tinting natural materials with powdered oxides differs to the process for tinting paints which generally uses liquid oxides, so an exact match with paint formulations is not possible

› While Marrakesh can be tinted to a wide variety of colours, it is neither possible nor desirable to achieve an exact colour match due to the uniqueness and variations in a natural mineral product. For this reason, and to take into consideration drying times, allow 2-7 working days to achieve a colour match

› Being lime based, it is natural for the colour of Marrakesh to develop a patina as it ages. This means that lighter and darker colours will appear, giving a slightly weathered look. Darker colours will also fade faster. For this reason, it is recommended that only light colours be used for any external applications.

ROCKCOTE recommends that all Artisans create their own colour and finish samples for each project to ensure customer expectations are understood and agreed upon prior to application. Final colours can vary depending on a number of factors on site and on the skills and abilities of the Artisan mixing and applying the product.

Splitstone effectCapture the essence of stone with Splitstone, a theatrical, tactile finish featuring handcrafted “veins” woven throughout. Created with ROCKCOTE Marrakesh, Splitstone displays areas of coarse texture alongside areas that are smooth to the touch. Tinted Giorgio Graesan pearlescent glazes can be used to bring out the effect of the veins, or work with the natural white of Marrakesh for a sophisticated, rustic look.

For bathrooms and shower wallsMarrakesh can be used to create a stunning seamless bathroom where the curve of one element flows into another.Being a plaster, it can be shaped by hand, allowing the Artisan to create a range of softer effects not achievable with tiles. The plaster formulation also removes the need for grout.

Is the bathroom suitable for a Marrakesh finish?The key to producing a lasting, functional Marrakesh finish in a bathroom is to ask this question at the outset. It is the responsibility of the designer and Artisan to determine if this is the case. The following elements are critical to achieving a water resistant finish:

› adequate airflow

› sufficient fall (drainage) and;

› the presence of sunlight.

Small, dark bathrooms with minimal natural light and poor airflow are likely to harbour the growth of mould.

Marrakesh is suitable for splashbacks and shower walls in wet areas but not recommended for areas where water pools such as floors, shower floors, bath tubs or hand basins as their successful application requires an exceptional level of skill and experience.

With the right care and protection, Marrakesh will last many years. However, it is important to follow ROCKCOTE’s Marrakesh Care and Maintenance Guide (see page 10) to ensure you get the best from your surface over a long period of time.

Achieving a water resistant finishAchieving a traditional tadelakt or a water resistant lime plaster finish does not so much rely on the product as it does an application process.

The relationship between the Artisan, the product and the tools of application are crucial to achieving a long-lasting, water resistant finish. The Artisan must have an affinity with Marrakesh as a natural product; an understanding of how it works; application techniques and tools for different situations; and how Marrakesh behaves under varying circumstances.

The application of Marrakesh is a multi-step process that takes time and care. Critical elements to achieving a water resistant finish with ROCKCOTE Marrakesh are:

› Closing the product up during initial application

› Compressing and polishing the surface

› Correct application process of Black Soap

› Allowing the surface a full 28 days to cure

Australian standard waterproofing in accordance with the requirements of your state or territory needs to be completed and certified prior to the use of any ROCKCOTE products in a wet area.

Be aware that, similar to natural stones, darker shadows appear on Marrakesh when it is wet and will disappear as the surface dries.

Design hints: Ideal for feature walls or entrance areas in homes, features and full interiors for shop and restaurant fit-outs.

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FUNCTIONAL FINISHES

Marrakesh Splitstone effect in a bathroom. Note Splitstone effect is suitable for bathroom walls but cannot be used on shower walls due to the open nature of the finish.

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh Frequently Asked QuestionsWhere can Marrakesh be used?Bathrooms and shower walls, exterior feature walls, bars and restaurants, bench tops and splashbacks, interior and exterior kitchens and barbecue areas.

Can Marrakesh be used in wet areas?Wet areas are defined as areas within a building, supplied with water from a water supply. They include bathrooms, showers, laundries and toilets. Marrakesh is suitable for splashbacks and shower walls in wet areas but not recommended for areas where water pools such as floors, shower floors, bath tubs or hand basins as their successful application requires an exceptional level of skill and experience.

Are there restrictions to where it can be used exterior?Marrakesh is not suitable for the exterior of single skin masonry or lightweight cladding systems.

What are the substrate requirements?Not all substrates are suitable for Marrakesh. Refer to the ROCKCOTE Systems Guide for further information. All substrates must be dimensionally stable and properly prepared as per ROCKCOTE’s specifications.

Can Marrakesh be used on a floor?ROCKCOTE does not recommend the use of Marrakesh for floors or frequently submerged areas.

Is Marrakesh suitable for commercial environments?Yes it is suitable for bars, reception areas, feature walls etc. but not for commercial food preparation areas.

What skills are required to apply Marrakesh?Working with traditional natural materials requires more knowledge and skill than most conventional products. ROCKCOTE recommends that Marrakesh be applied by an Artisan who has extensive experience in applying Marrakesh for similar applications to your particular project.

For best results, ROCKCOTE Marrakesh should be applied as part of a complete specified system taking into account the substrate and finish required. Contact ROCKCOTE for the most correct system for your project.

What colours are available?See the Natural Materials by ROCKCOTE Colour Range on our website www.rockcote.com.au.

How is the product sealed?The process of sealing Marrakesh is both a science and an art. The Artisan applies a Black Olive Soap solution to the already compressed and polished surface. The high alkalinity of the uncured lime plaster breaks down the soap releasing natural waxes that are then worked into the surface with a polishing stone to form a lustrous, water repellent finish.

What is Black Soap?Black Soap is a natural African soap used in the application and maintenance of ROCKCOTE Marrakesh and tadelakt plaster finishes. Black Soap is a natural product based on olive pulp. It has been used for centuries as a skin cleanser and moisturiser and won’t harm the environment. ROCKCOTE Black Soap is available for purchase from your Artisan or ROCKCOTE.

How is Black Soap applied by the Artisan?Black Soap diluted with water is sprayed onto the surface and embedded using a trowel or polishing stone.

Can I use the surface immediately?No. Marrakesh must be left to cure for a minimum of 28 days.

Can I hang pictures or fixtures from the completed wall?After the surface is cured, pre-drill any holes into the Marrakesh before mounting picture hooks. Do not hammer nails or try to screw directly into the surface. Any fixtures must be attached to the underlying framework substrate and not the Marrakesh.

Will personal care products such as shampoos damage Marrakesh?Most commercial shampoos, conditioners etc. should be safe to use providing you clean your shower recess on a regular basis with Black Soap, according to the instructions provided in the Care & Maintenance section of this document.

Marrakesh should be cleaned weekly with Black Soap to help prevent the build-up of soap scum on the surface.

How is Marrakesh cleaned?Black Soap is the only product that should be used to clean Marrakesh. See page 11 for details.

Is a warranty available?ROCKCOTE Marrakesh comes with a statutory warranty and is fit for the purposes described in this document.

Where does your lime come from?Marrakesh is made from local Australian raw materials.

How hard does it set?Marrakesh and other lime plasters are number 3 on the Moh’s scale of hardness once completely hardened under ideal conditions.

Can it be repaired?Yes. It is important any rectification or repair work is completed by the Artisan who applied the Marrakesh. They’ll be able to advise the best options and make any repairs if necessary.

Where can I find an Artisan?Contact ROCKCOTE on 1300 736 668 or your local distributor for Artisans in your area. Look for the artisan logo.

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Marrakesh Care and Maintenance GuideMarrakesh is an entirely natural lime-based plaster, so giving it the right care is important. Keeping Marrakesh clean is easy and with some straightforward maintenance, Marrakesh can be kept in great condition for many years.

How to clean Marrakesh For walls and feature wallsAn occasional light dusting with a soft cloth should be adequate for walls and feature walls. Any liquid spills should be wiped away immediately with a damp sponge.

The surface should also be cleaned annually with the same Black Soap solution originally used to seal the surface (see box at right for instructions).

For shower recessesMarrakesh can be easily cleaned using the same Black Soap solution originally used to seal the surface. For shower recesses, cleaning needs to be carried out regularly, at least once a week. This will help to maintain the water resistant features of the product and ensures a film build that does not allow a build-up of soap scum.

The Black Soap is applied by making your black soap solution, in a spray atomiser bottle. It can be applied when the shower is wet or dry. Spray a light mist onto the wall surface and rub gently with a soft sponge.

Note: The Black Soap is a natural product and can also be used for cleaning your skin and hair.

For best results, squeegee your shower walls to remove excess water following each use.

It is recommended that containers containing oils and lotions do not come into direct contact with the surface due to the risk of leakage. If contact does occur, wipe away with a damp soft cloth immediately.

Care must be taken when using commercial cleaners on other surfaces to stop them from coming into contact with the Marrakesh.

For bench tops and splashbacksBench tops and splashbacks should be cleaned once a week with Black Soap solution. For day-to-day cleaning, use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water only.

Do not allow containers of oil or lotions to come into direct contact with the surface due to the risk of leakage. If contact does occur, wipe away with a damp, soft cloth immediately.

Dealing with unexpected problemsIf you have an unexpected problem and your Marrakesh needs retouching, it is important any rectification or repair work is completed by the Artisan who applied the Marrakesh. They’ll be able to advise the best options and make repairs if necessary.

Cracking: Fine hairline cracks are a natural feature of the product. However if wider cracks occur, please contact your Artisan to inspect. Do not attempt to fix yourself.

Mould: While lime does not harbour the growth of mould, there are several factors that can contribute to mould forming on the surface such as lack of sunlight, poor ventilation, persistent dampness and not allowing the lime to naturally kill off potential mould spores by failing to remove residue that forms. If mould does occur, please contact the Artisan who completed the project. Do not attempt to use commercial bleaches or cleaners.

What to use › Black Soap

› A non-abrasive soft cloth or sponge

What not to use › Bleach

› Mould removers

› Any other store-bought chemical cleaners

› Vinegar of any kind including Apple Cider Vinegar

› Lemon juice or any other citric cleaner

› Scourers or other harsh applicators

› High pressure sprays

Excessive rubbing even with a soft cloth should be avoided.

Preparing Black Soap solutionTo mix the Black Soap solution, add 1 teaspoon (approximately 5 grams) of Black Soap to 1 litre of clean water. Allow Black soap to disperse in the water overnight before use.

Apply using a spray bottle/atomiser. The solution should keep for many months.

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Concrete look Marrakesh bathroom by Artisan John Geltch

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phone: 1300 736 668head office: 18 Machinery Road, Yandina, QLD 4561email: sales@rockcote.com.auweb: www.rockcote.com.au QHO-MBR024-V006