Different types of plaster required for construction projects

Plaster is a versatile building material that has been used for centuries in construction and home decor. Plaster offers endless possibilities for creating smooth walls and intricate decorative elements. Different types of plaster are suitable for different building projects.

What are the different kinds of plaster?

Lime Plaster

Lime plaster, also known as traditional plaster, is made from lime, sand and water. It is an environmentally friendly and breathable option that allows moisture to pass through walls, preventing dampness and mold growth. Lime plaster maintains the authentic character of the structure and is long-lasting, making it ideal for historic buildings and restoration projects.

Gypsum Plaster

Gypsum plaster is a quick-setting plaster made from the soft sulfate mineral gypsum. It has a fast drying time and is now widely used on interior walls and ceilings in modern construction to provide a smooth, even surface for painting or wallpapering.

Cement Plaster

Cement plaster is a mixture of cement, sand and water. It offers very high strength and durability, can withstand harsh weather conditions, and is resistant to cracking. Cement plaster is often used outdoors in high traffic areas.

Venetian Plaster

Originating in Italy, Venetian plaster is a decorative plaster that creates a luxurious and sophisticated finish. It is made from lime putty and marble dust for a smooth, shiny surface with a marble-like appearance. It is applied in thin layers to allow light to penetrate and create depth and movement. Venetian plaster is perfect for feature walls, fireplaces and feature ceilings.

Acoustic Plaster

As the name suggests, acoustic plaster is designed to absorb sound and reduce room noise. It is made from a mixture of plaster, perlite and other acoustic materials. Acoustic plaster is often used on ceilings and walls in recording studios and home theaters to improve the acoustics of the space.

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What are the 6 stages of plaster?

Preparation

Surface Preparation before plastering Process. This means cleaning this zone, filling in cracks or holes to even it out and applying an adhesive so the plaster will stick well to the surface.

Scratch Coat

The prepared surface is then coated with the first coat of plaster which is known as the scratch coat. This coat is rough and provides a base for subsequent coats. Wait for it to dry completely before moving on to the next stage.

Brown Coat

After the scratch coat is fully cured, a second coating (brown coat) is applied over the scratch coat. This layer is smoother and helps eliminate imperfections.

Finish coat

A final layer of plaster (finish coat) is applied to achieve a smooth and polished surface. This coat creates a decorative effect by coloring or texturizing and eliminates imperfections.

Curing

After applying the finish coat, the plaster needs time to fully cure, a process that can take several days depending on the type of plaster and the construction environment.

Decorating

Once the plaster is dry, you can start decorating. This quite literally can mean anything you are that could relate to interior finishes (painting, wallpaper, decorative finish) different types of decor are chosen according to the aesthetics and purpose of a room.

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What is the best material for plaster?

Choosing the most suitable material for plastering depends on the specific requirements of the project. Kemox recommends that you consider several aspects such as durability, aesthetics, acoustics, and environmental friendliness. If you’re in a wet or high-traffic area, cement plaster will be an excellent choice for its strength. Lime plaster is also durable and can stand the test of time, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. If you want to create a sophisticated finish, Venetian plaster is the way to go. Its marble-like appearance adds a touch of elegance to a space. If you’re more concerned about the sound of your room, acoustical plaster will create a more comfortable and peaceful environment. Of course, lime plaster is an eco-friendly option for those who are concerned about the environmental impact of their project. It is made from natural materials and has a lower carbon footprint than other types of stucco.

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