Educational facilities require a specific type of durability. Walls in schools are subjected to constant wear and tear, making a smooth, impact-resistant finish essential for long-term maintenance. For a new two-story school in Naga City, Engr. Danny Labordo of St. Bernadine Construction and Enterprises implemented an integrated finishing system from Buildrite to ensure the structure would be both aesthetically pleasing and structurally protected.

The project utilized a strategic combination of cement-based and paste-based solutions to balance precision with speed.

The Integrated Finishing Approach:
• Surface Perfection with TOFIL 801: TOFIL 801 Skim Coat SF (Smooth Finish) was used as the primary leveling agent. This cementitious powder is engineered to fill pinholes and correct "waves" in the plaster, resulting in a marble-smooth surface. Its high bond strength ensures that the finish will not flake off even with the high activity levels typical of a school environment.
• Sealing the Surface with TOFIL 803: Once the skim coat was cured, TOFIL 803 Primer and Sealer was applied. This is a critical step that many overlook. The sealer penetrates the skim coat to equalize the surface's porosity. This prevents the "alkali attack" that causes paint to discolor and ensures the final paint coat adheres perfectly and looks uniform.
• Efficiency with Paste-Type Skim Coat: To meet tight construction deadlines, the team utilized Paste-Type Skim Coat on specific sections. Unlike powder versions, paste-type skim coats come pre-mixed and ready to use, significantly speeding up the application process and reducing labor time while providing an ultra-fine finish.

Why this system is ideal for public and school buildings:
• Enhanced Durability: The combination of TOFIL 801 and 803 creates a hard, water-resistant "skin" over the concrete that resists scratching and impact.
• Paint Economy: By sealing the wall with TOFIL 803, the contractor reduced the amount of expensive topcoat paint needed, as the wall no longer "soaks up" the paint like a sponge.
• Low Maintenance: The smooth finish makes it much harder for dirt and dust to cling to the walls, making the school easier to clean and keep hygienic.

By utilizing this comprehensive system, St. Bernadine Construction and Enterprises delivered a high-quality educational environment that is built to withstand the test of time and heavy student traffic.