Introduction
In the construction industry, plastering is not simply aesthetic, but an integral part of strengthening and protecting the build, plastering is encasing a wall or ceiling with a clean, smooth, sealed surface to protect it against moisture, cracking and environmental decay.
Table of Contents
While plastering can allow the building to last longer, it also provides a smooth, flat surface to add paint, tile, and wallpaper in the future.
Plastering requires that the work be done properly, to ensure the current life of these walls or ceilings as well as provide a surface to be painted or have tile or wallpaper installed on it.
In this guide, we are going to break down everything you need to know about plastering, from what it is, to the process, type, benefits, and expert tips.
What is Plastering in Construction?
Plastering in construction means applying a paste-like mixture of sand, cement, and water (which can include lime or gypsum or a variety of additives) to the outside and inside of surfaces.
After application, this mixture cures and solidifies on the surface to hide imperfections coming from the substrate and to mitigate moisture intrusion, allowing for a flat, durable finish.
It serves multiple purposes:
- Levels uneven bricks and concrete substrates
- Provides a bonding layer for finish paint and wallpaper
- Protects walls and ceilings from excess water seepage and environmental deterioration
Plaster has been an important part of a building for centuries with both protective and decorative purposes.
Purpose of Plastering In Construction
Plastering your walls is not only for aesthetic looks, here are some reasons it is necessary:
1. Smooth Finish for Further Work
Rough masonry and concrete surfaces are often uneven. However, if plastered over, they will create an even surface suitable for painting, tiling, or decorating if desired.
2. Moisture and Weather Protection
Having plastered surfaces will seal against rain, humidity, and general wear, preventing moisture, mold, damp spots, and erosion.
3. Improves the Surface
A good plaster coat will improve wall durability and resist minor impacts and abrasions.
4. Cosmetic Improvement
With plain finishes as well as decorative plaster patterns, plaster can dramatically improve the aesthetic quality of the construction for both interior and exterior surfaces.
5. Thermal and Acoustic Insulation
Some plasters can limit the transfer of heat between surfaces, while others can also limit sound transfer and provide improved comfort in the internal environments.
6. Prevents Dust
Brick or concrete that has not been plastered tends to create dust from its unsealed surface. By plastering, it not only seals the surface, making it more hygienic, but also makes surfaces easier to clean.
Different Types of Plaster Used in Construction
There are many plastering types used for the intended purpose, base material, and site environment, which are relevant in their selection.
1. Cement Plaster
Materials used: Cement, sand, water
Intended uses: Most interior and exterior walls
Characteristics: Durable, moisture-resistant, strong
Comments: Addage Cement Plaster is the best ready mix cement plaster for one or two coats of plaster are required to achieve a finished surface.
2. Lime Plaster
Materials used: Lime, sand, water
Intended uses: restoration projects; areas prone to moisture
Characteristics: Breathable, ontogenicity resistant, flexible
Comments: extremely useful in heritage construction.
3. Gypsum Plaster
Materials Used: 1. Gypsum powder and water
Best Suited For: Internal walls and ceilings
Properties: Lightweight, dries quickly, smooth finish
Notes: Common in today’s homes.
4. Mud Plaster
Materials: Clay + organic matter (straw or animal dung)
Best Suited For: Eco-friendly and traditional homes.
Properties: Sustainable and has good thermal insulation properties.
Notes: Low-cost, environmentally friendly.
5. Stucco Plaster
Materials: Cement, lime, sand, and water.
Best Suited For: Decorative external work.
Properties: Weather-resisting, very hard, long-lasting.
Notes: Common for textures or ornamental textures.
Step-by-Step Guide to Plastering Work for Construction
In order to achieve a good lasting finish, care needs to be taken, and plastering work is configured in steps.
1. Surface Preparation
Removing dust, grease, and debris from the wall.
Moisten the surface in order not to remove moisture from the plaster.
Fill in any large holes or gaps using mortar.
2. Mixing Plaster
The right ratio of cement to sand is 1:4 or 1:6.
Thoroughly mix the sand and cement before adding water to make a paste.
Mix water into sand and cement paste until smooth and lump-free.
Additives such as addage cement plaster and Redispersible Polymer Powder can be used to increase the performance properties of the plaster mix to improve adhesion and flexibility.
3. First Coat (Scratch Coat)
Apply base coat at varying thickness of approx. 10 – 12 mm.
Scratch the surface with a scratching tool to form keys so the second coat will grip more effectively.
4. Second Coat (Floating coat)
Smoothly apply a 6-8 mm coat of plaster.
Happy building everyone!
Use a wooden float to level the surface.
5. Finishing Coat
Apply one final coat for a smooth, finished surface.
Add texture or decoration based on the design requirements.
6. Curing
Follow by keeping the plaster damp for 7 – 10 days.
Keeping plaster damp provides curing which extends its life and prevents cracking.
Benefits of Plastering in Construction
Strength and Protection
Plaster provides long-lasting protection from the weather, moisture, and wear. Plastered walls improve durability, which supports the extended performance of a building.
Crack Prevention
It lowers the risk of the common hazards of shrinkage cracks and degrading surface.
Clean Aesthetic
Plaster provides a neat, professional finish to interior and exterior work.
Moisture Barrier
Plastering can provide an effective barrier to moisture incursion.
Fire Resistance
Some plasters, such as gypsum plaster, are naturally fire-retardant.
Little Maintenance
Plastered surfaces are easy to clean, repaint, and repair.
Sustainable Options
Sustainable plasters, such as mud and lime, can contribute to green construction objectives.
Considerations for Producing High-Quality Plastering Work
Below are considerations for producing high-quality plastering work:
Material Quality
Always use good-quality cement, sand, and other materials, including additives such as Redispersible Polymer Powder that can enhance bonding and flexibility.
Mix Ratios
Correct mix ratios for different plaster types.
Surface Preparation
Surface preparation is critical; the wall must be clean, and the wall must be damp to ensure the plaster bonds correctly.
Weather Conditions
When plastering, it is always best to avoid extremely hot and extremely wet weather to reduce the potential for cracking.
Adequate Curing
Do not skip curing; it is critical for plaster strength.
Skilled Workers
Better finishes and fewer mistakes happen more with trained plasterers.
Conclusion
Plastering Work in construction serves as a foundation for everything we do with building. The role of plastering extends beyond being a protective finish against the weather; it also provides a clean aesthetic for interior design.
Result of plastering can be mud, readymade addage cement plaster, or traditional lime; plastering can all leave a quality, durable, serviceable finish by following a simple process, considering a quality assurance check.
Modern materials such as Redispersible Polymer Powder mean that plastering has never been used so efficiently, easily, and effectively.
Compared to when plaster-based homes were commonplace, the modern plastering environments are flexible in both time and performance compared to older products.
A well-executed plastering environment will not only improve the look of a building but also provide real value for money in the real estate market.
Sagar Telrandhe is a Construction Engineer with a B.Tech in Construction Engineering & Management. Passionate about infrastructure development, project planning, and sustainable construction, he specializes in modern construction techniques, project execution, and quality management, contributing to efficient and innovative building.