Plaster and Plastering Supplies

What Are Plasters?

Plasters are what give walls strong insulation with a smooth finish. While concrete and cement are typically more visible outside, this material gives walls a better finish. That's because their composition has a different makeup, even though they contain a percentage of concrete and cement. 

The unique compositions of these products provide a different texture than normal concrete or cement. It is usually smoother and more polished-looking. But it also goes beyond aesthetics. These products are moisture-resistant, fire-resistant, long-lasting, and durable. 

This building material is popular for use in walls and ceilings, but it's also common for covering decorative pieces and art. This makes the material a very common addition to homes with ornate details or gardens with artistic pieces. 

Best Uses

Plasters are essential building supplies that any contractor or homeowner can use for large-scale projects. That's because it protects walls from both the outside environment and indoor wear and tear. There are several situations where it's best to use this material over concrete, cement, or drywall. Here are just a few:

• Provide a higher-end look (can be smooth and glossy or provide a stucco-like texture).
• Achieve more noise reduction than drywall.
• Easier installation on curved walls or ceilings.
• Decorate a space with detailing.

Types of Plasters

There isn't just one kind of this building material. Depending on the composition, plasters can be more or less useful for certain projects. For example, some may be better suited to wet environments than others. Some give off the smoothest finish, making them perfect for decorations. Others are better suited for walls. 

It's also important to understand what materials a project requires and understand how a product can meet these requirements. This diligence will ensure that the material is well suited to the task ahead. For a brief overview of the various plasters, these are some of the most common products. 

Casting Plaster

Casting plaster is also commonly referred to as plaster of Paris. That's because it's one of the most recognised types of casting plaster. But it doesn't need to be this particular type to create the necessary casts. 

Casting plaster creates moulds that can add elegant details to any home or garden. After creating a mould, the casting material can also be used to fill it. Other products that solidify from liquids over time can also be used such as resin. 

Concrete Plaster

Concrete plaster is most popular for its versatility. Giving a finished concrete look to any walls or ceilings, this product can be smoothed seamlessly or given texture. It will also make surfaces more moisture resistant. 

This concrete product is excellent for lawn decorations. This is because its beautiful finish is excellent for ornaments and sculptures. But it can still stand up to the elements outside. 

Cement Plaster

Also known as gypsum, cement plaster is similar to the concrete version. But with the cement version, there will be impurities in the cement that make the texture a little rougher. Similar to a stucco look, this cement alternative is ideal for outside walls. However, high-quality gypsum products are used inside for their superior finish. 

Plaster Render

With more cement in its ingredient list, plaster render is almost exclusively used on exterior walls. That's because it's the most durable against the element outdoors. It can hide ugly brickwork or just give a building or home an updated look. 

The render plaster will also protect the other layers outside a building. For example, it reduces a building's exterior exposure to potentially degrading elements. This means it can keep a building in better shape for longer periods.

Installation Tips

Applying plasters is a big job. Getting it right the first time is essential to avoid future work. There are some basic installation tips that everyone should know before working with these products. Those include:

• Ensure a wall or ceiling is ready for application. Sanding, cleaning, applying a primer, etc.
• Keep tools clean or wet throughout the process to avoid a dried-out product.
• Always add the product to water rather than water to the product.
• The space should be kept cool throughout the installation.

Depending on the space, this type of project can take a lot of time and patience. But having the necessary tools and products can make the process much easier. 

When to Replaster Walls and Ceilings

Plasters are long-lasting and very durable. However, different environmental factors can cause damage to the product. Whenever plasters begin to crack, stain, lose pieces, crumble, or flake, it may be time for reapplication. 

The damage may not always be as bad as it looks. Because of this, repairs are usually the best option before a full reapplication of a new batch. But when reapplication does occur, it's best to use the same number of coats and similar materials. Thankfully, reapplication is not necessary for a very long time after installation. 

If you need assistance to find the right plasters for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.