Plastering: Types, materials, advantages and How can plastering materials be calculated ?

A detailed knowledge of plastering proportions is necessary to create beautifully finished buildings with beautiful walls and smooth ceilings and to achieve perfection.Plastering is a process that begins with the proper mixture of cement, sand, lime and water.In addition to improving the beauty of a structure, plaster provides durability and protection to the surface. Thus, it is an important component of home construction projects.

  So, it is very important to know about plastering, materials required for plastering and how to calculate the amount of plaster during the construction of a house because the calculation of plastered material plays an important role in calculating the overall cost.

Plastering is a building material that, coats and protects interior walls and ceilings. Plaster comes in powdered form. It must be watered before application. Plaster is applied to the wall to help prepare the surface before painting and it gives the surface a smooth finish.The process of applying a thin cement mortar to cover the exposed surface and make it smooth and level. Plastering services are essential for the restoration, protection and repair of wall or ceiling surfaces. It enhances the aesthetic appeal of the wall and improves its quality and longevity.

Plaster is a durable building material.When plastering the walls, water runs off causing a chemical reaction that makes the walls stronger. In general, plaster can withstand dents and impacts. The lathe on which the plaster is placed can also affect the strength of the plaster.During construction, the walls show exposed brick and uneven surfaces. Application of plaster helps to smooth the walls and prevent water damage. You can easily use plaster on brick, stone or frame buildings. Plaster can be moulded, poured, cut, painted, stamped or stenciled. Plastering ceilings can help add some decorative touches to your space. Plaster also has the ability to absorb sound. The thicker the plaster layer, the greater the potential soundproofing. In addition, plaster is also needed for fire resistance.

It is the binding agent in the plaster mix. It provides strength and durability to the surface. Common types of cement used in the plastering process are Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC), white cement and Portland Slag Cement (PSC).

Sand provides bulk to the mix, gives more workability, and avoids cracking. Its quality is of primary importance for a good finish. Silica or quartz sand is often used for white or colored plaster applications.

In certain cases, the use of fibrous materials such as flax, sisal, jute, hemp, coconut fibres and manila, is required. These materials must be cleaned, dried and free from oil to ensure desired performance of plaster.

Water is the element necessary for mixing and hardening the plaster. Clean, drinking water should be used to prevent any effect on the quality of the plaster.

 Seawater or brackish water is not suitable for this purpose, as it can weaken the plaster.

Lime improves the plaster’s durability and ease of use of the mix. It lowers the possibility of cracking and strengthens the bond between the plaster and the surface.

There are several types of plaster and they serve different needs, environmental conditions, and aesthetic preferences. Here are some of the commonly used types:

Cement plastering involves making a mixture of cement, sand and water. It helps achieve smooth interior surfaces. Various types of cement can be used to make cement plaster, including Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC), etc. Cement plaster can have different finishes such as smooth cast, rough cast, sand-faced, textured, etc. It is important to note that an additional coating of gypsum plaster may be required over the cement plaster.

Gypsum plastering, also known as plaster of paris, is a popular choice for interior surfaces. Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral that, when mixed with water, forms a smooth paste that dries quickly and provides a clean, polished appearance. This type of plastering is valued for its fire-resistant properties and is often used in spaces where hygiene and cleanliness are priorities.

Mud plaster represents the most cost-effective plastering option, consisting of well-balanced proportions of clay and sand. The clay used should be free from impurities such as grass, roots, organic matter, or stone pebbles. To strengthen the mixture, chopped straw, hay, or hemp is added at a rate of 30 kg/m3of earth content. Mud plaster primarily finds use in rural areas and temporary construction projects.

Lime, sand and water are mixed in a ratio of 1:1 along with a small amount of cement to make lime plaster. This mixture is set when it comes in contact with air in the atmosphere. Lime plaster is used to give a unique and rustic finish to homes. This is another eco-friendly alternative to reduce carbon emissions caused by cement in cement plaster.

Waterproof plaster, often made with a combination of cement and waterproofing compounds, is designed to resist water penetration. This type of plaster is commonly used in areas disclosed to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and exterior walls. It helps prevent dampness, mold, and water damage, ensuring the longevity of the structure.

Stucco plaster is made up of lime, sand and water. Moder stucco plaster, however, is made with Portland cement. Plaster stucco is a form of ornamental plaster known for its superior finishing capabilities. Typically, you should apply three coats of such plaster for a total thickness of around 25 mm. Note that the previous coat must finish drying completely before you apply the next coat. The first layer of stucco plaster is referred to as the scratch coat.

Care must be taken in the calculation of the plaster material to reduce wastage and also to make a consistent and efficient mix of plaster.So, to calculate the quantity of plaster and the quantity of materials required for the construction of a house, some steps should be taken into consideration. Here are some of them:

Try to choose the best cement-sand ratio for the plaster. The optimum ratio of cement to sand varies depending on the type of plaster, but it is generally 1:4 for ceilings, i.e. one part cement to four parts sand and 1:6 for walls (one part cement to six parts sand).

To determine the cement required for the plaster, multiply the volume of plaster by the ratio of cement to sand.

To find the required amount of sand, multiply the plaster volume by the sand ratio.

Your chosen thickness should be multiplied by your total surface area to calculate the amount of plaster or the volume of plaster required.

First, measure the length of the walls and ceiling to be plastered. That measurement is in square meters; Therefore, to find each area of the surface in square meters, multiply its height and length.

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