How To Reduce Plaster Spalling

Creating a subpar finish is a plaster contractor’s worst nightmare. Bad finishes lead to angry customers and bad reviews.? One of the most common problems that can occur in plaster finishes is spalling.? Spalling not only disrupts the finish but also compromises the integrity of the plaster.? Fortunately, spalling is preventable when you have the right admixtures.

What is Plaster Spalling?

Plaster spalling is the result of a weakness in the plaster surface.? Over time, a thin layer of the weakened plaster can flake off.? Spalling has two main causes.? The first cause is improper troweling techniques.? If the plaster is troweled when bleed water is present on the surface, it can push the water back into the surface of the plaster.? This increases the water-cement ratio of the surface, making it weaker.? The second cause of plaster spalling is a rapid drying of the surface.? If the surface of the plaster dries out too quickly, it forms a “crust” on top of the wet plaster below.? This forms a weak layer just below the surface, which can result in spalling.??

How Can You Prevent Spalling?

Restoring plaster after spalling occurs is costly and time-consuming.? It is much easier and more cost-effective to reduce the risk of spalling in the first place - especially with Fritz-Pak’s pool plaster additives. Our Plaster Supreme improves the water retention of the plaster mix, which can help reduce bleed water.? Our Plaster Delay Set slows down plaster setting time, which helps keep the surface from drying out too quickly on those hot days at the job site. When paired together, these admixtures can help you get the most beautiful plaster finish that will last for a long time.

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