Your Most Burning Questions Regarding Plaster Products
Surface plaster is one of the very fundamental and transformative techniques in inside finishing. It entails applying a even coat of paste to create a final surface that is ready for painting or can be left as a beautiful textured finish in its own right. The main purpose of surface plastering is to conceal imperfections in the base brickwork or drywall, to provide a uniform plane, and to add a layer of durability. Without this essential step, walls would appear unfinished and unrefined.
The history of finishing surfaces with plaster is very old. From the elaborate murals of Pompeii to the graceful whitewash rooms of Greek homes, plaster has long been the canvas for human living spaces. Traditional ways used substances readily available in the nearby environment, such as mud, limestone, sand, and animal hair. These earthy mixes produced porous and durable walls that could endure for centuries. Modern wall plastering still honors these principles but often uses manufactured gypsum compounds for convenience and uniformity.
We have several different kinds of surface plaster. Basecoat or adhesive DIY Plaster is a heavy-duty base layer used for highly absorbent surfaces like masonry or block. It gives a strong grip for the next coats. This plaster typically has aggregates to provide durability. Topcoat or skimming plaster is the final smooth coat that creates the flawless finish for decorating. It is smooth-grained and applies readily to a very smooth-thin finish. Additionally, there are specialist products like acoustic or insulating types that serve specific roles.
The process of plastering a wall is a specialized craft that follows a sequence of steps. Initially, the wall must be properly prepared. This means making sure it is stable, clean, and clear of any weak particles. For highly thirsty surfaces, a special solution or a light mist of water is used to control the suction. The plaster is then mixed to a smooth consistency and laid with a metal trowel. The craftsman works efficiently, coating a small area at a time.
The first layer is called the pricking-up coat. It is applied at a thickness of about 10mm and then scored with a comb to create a key for the next coat. Once this has firmed sufficiently, the second coat, or skimming coat, is applied. This is spread more thinly and is worked several times to get a completely flat and even finish. A skilled tradesperson can make this look easy, but it requires a great deal of experience and a good eye for flatness.
Apart from simple smooth walls, plaster can be used to create a variety of decorative finishes. Artex-type finishes were previously very popular, created with special tools or combs. Polished plasterwork, or Marmorino, is a luxury method that uses multiple layers of lime putty polished to a high-gloss, stone-like finish. Tadelakt is a water-resistant lime plaster from Marrakech that is smoothed with river pebbles and sealed with soap soap to produce a joint-free surface for bathroom rooms.
Nowadays, many homeowners encounter plaster in the form of fixing holes or preparing walls for decorating. For minor patches, a tub of filler can be adequate. But, for bigger sections or a complete wall, the services of a professional plasterer are usually advisable. A perfectly finished wall is the base of a beautiful interior. It feels substantial and properly made, adding light uniformly and providing a sense of quality that is tangible. In a world of quick makeovers, a beautifully plastered surface remains a testament to patience and traditional craftsmanship.
