Abstract: A method of preparing a mold surface for forming a pattern on a molded article includes masking the mold surface, sandblasting the exposed surface of the mold, cleaning the mold surface and then depositing a metal layer on the mold surface to provide a metal coated mold surface having areas of altered surface texture corresponding to the pattern. The mold is then used to bond a resin coating to a masonry unit to provide a decorative surface pattern to the exterior molded surface of the resulting composite masonry unit.

Abstract: A method of coating a surface of an article block includes utilizing a mold that has its interior surface electrolessly coated with a metal such as nickel where the mold is made from mild steel and further includes depositing a resinous composition in the coated metal mold and then inserting a surface of the article and then subsequently curing the composition by exposing the mold to heat; the exterior surface of the mold is oxidized and darkened to increase the capacity for the mold to absorb radiant heat; a method of preparing the mold is provided where the mold is electrolessly coated with the metal while the exterior surface thereof is masked to prevent the deposition of the coating metal on the exterior surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to filled polymeric wall facing units provided with at least one mortar tie-in member (e.g., a metal mesh lathing material) embedded in and protruding from the backing surface of these units. The tie-in member permits the unit to be mortared onto a base wall structure made of, e.g., masonry materials, wall board or steel panels. Particular wall facing units are panels and corner units. The present invention also relates to wall systems having corner facing units of the present invention.

Abstract: Resinous coatings of an ethylenically-unsaturated polyester are employed to form masonry blocks and tiles which exhibit resistance to fading and loss of color consistency in exterior applications. Ceramic coated quartz granules and sand particles precoated with an unsaturated organofunctional silane provide depth and softness of color and texture which when combined with a polymerizable polyester resin produce decorative fade resistant articles that also exhibit resistance to staining and moisture. The sand, granule and polyester compositions of the invention can also be formed as cast articles without masonry unit backing.