Calculations and recommendations for the thickness of the plaster layer

Plaster thickness plays a major role in producing a finish that is glossy, strong, and long-lasting. The right plaster thickness can make all the difference in the outcome, whether you’re working on exterior surfaces or interior walls. Not only is proper thickness visually pleasing, but it also guarantees good adhesion, insulation, and long-term resistance to cracking in the plaster.

But it’s not always easy to gauge the proper thickness of plaster. It depends on a number of variables, such as the kind of surface, the substance being used, and the plaster’s intended use. You run the risk of an uneven and brittle finish if you go too thin. If it’s too thick, you could have problems with weight, drying times, and wasteful material expenses.

We’ll dissect the important factors to take into account when determining the appropriate thickness of plaster layer in this guide. You can achieve a professional-quality finish and make sure your walls are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound by adhering to these recommendations.

How to calculate the thickness of plaster

It’s critical to ascertain the anticipated material consumption and cost before beginning the repair. The finishing coating’s maximum thickness is not regulated by current construction standards; instead, the minimum thickness is dictated by the characteristics of a particular building mixture and the degree of wall irregularity.

The majority of plaster manufacturers list the approximate plaster consumption per square meter of surface area. It is, however, preferable to measure the curvature beforehand to avoid having to purchase multiple bags later. There are numerous approaches to accomplish this. A laser level and the rule are now more frequently used than plumb lines, which were once widely used.

The following is the order of events:

1. The laser level is placed as close to the wall as possible, the working side of the device should be turned parallel to its surface.
2. Sets the vertical plane projection mode.
3. The distance from the laser line on the floor to the wall is measured with a ruler approximately every half meter and the data is recorded in a notebook.
4. Further, the measurements are repeated with a mixture up the same half a meter. In order to raise the laser line, the master applies a rule to the wall.
5. As a result, the finisher finds the most convex section of the wall. It is designated as the zero level.

It is now possible to calculate the average thickness of plaster. It is calculated by dividing the total volume of the shortfall to the zero plane by the wall’s area, plus the minimum finishing layer that is allowed.

When a reinforcing mesh is needed

In some cases, during plastering work, builders install a special reinforcing mesh of metal or plastic wire. By analogy with reinforced concrete structures, it is designed to resist tensile loads that can occur with temperature changes and the transfer of deformations of the load-bearing wall to the outer finishing layer. The mesh helps to increase adhesion, i.e. e. improves adhesion of materials, prevents cracking and delaying. In addition, the use of reinforcement minimizes the consequences of possible violations of technology, such as non-compliance with temperature and humidity conditions. For finishing up to 50 mm thick, the use of mesh is optional and directly depends on the client"s requirements and the allocated budget. If this indicator is exceeded, most professionals prefer to install it, despite the fact that this requirement is not in the current SNiP 3.04.01–87.

For a smooth and long-lasting finish when plastering walls, the plaster layer’s thickness must be precisely calculated. This post will walk you through the essential calculations and useful advice for figuring out the ideal plaster thickness, so your walls are well-maintained, visually appealing, and free of cracks and uneven surfaces. Whether you’re painting an exterior or interior wall, these tips will help you consistently produce work of a professional caliber.

SNiP standards

• cement-based mortar – up to 20 mm;
• gypsum-based mortar – up to 15 mm.

When multiple layers are applied:

• splash (brushing) of stone surfaces – up to 5 mm;
• splash (brushing) of wooden surfaces – up to 9 mm;
• primer with cement mortar – up to 5 mm;
• primer with lime or lime-gypsum mortar – up to 7 mm;
• covering layer of ordinary plaster – up to 2 mm;
• covering layer of decorative plaster – up to 7 mm.

The fact that a multi-layer coating requires each layer to be applied only after the preceding one has solidified should be considered when estimating how long the task will take.

Recommendations of manufacturers

Building mix manufacturers test their products extensively and have a well-developed quality control system in place. As professionals, they include a set of guidelines that provide general clarifications on finishing mixture concepts with their product.

The following are the most well-known material brands:

▶ Rotband (Knauf) Rotband. Gypsum plaster enhanced with premium polymer additives and plasticizers. The suggested finishing thickness range is 5 mm at the minimum and 50 mm at the maximum. The mixture consumption is 8.5 kg per m^2 of wall area for every 10 mm.

▶ Knauf Gummi Band. Cement-lime plaster that is resistant to cracking and freezing. 12 kg/m2 of material are used, and the final thickness is 1 cm. The finishing layer should have the same minimum and maximum dimensions as Knauf Rotband.

CT 24 Ceresit. An additional cement-based mixture that is perfect for plastering a home’s exterior walls. The recommended layer thickness for aerated concrete walls, according to the manufacturer, is between 3 and 30 mm. Use between 10 mm and 14 kg/m2.

TT40 Veber Vetonit. universal composition based on cement. Application of 5–40 mm and consumption of 17 kg/m2 are advised.

Ecosloy Unis. Plaster made of gypsum from Unis. The manufacturer suggests a finishing thickness of 5 to 50 mm, with concave wall sections potentially requiring an increase to 70 mm. Utilization: 10–11 kg/m^2.

▶ Teplon University. mixture with a modified gypsum basis. As for Unis Ecosloy, thickness values \u200b\u200bare are the same. Consumption of mixture: 9 kg/m2.

The Starateli. composition based on gypsum. Allowable range for thickness: 5 to 100 mm. 9 kg per m2 of wall surface is the amount needed for a 1 cm layer.

▶ Osnovit PC21 M. high-grade plaster made of cement. able to have a layer between 2 and 30 mm overlaid on it. 13 kg/m2 of consumption at a 1 cm thickness.

Knowing the appropriate plaster layer thickness is essential for plastering projects because it affects durability and appearance. The type of plaster being used and the particular requirements of the surface should guide your choice of thickness. If it’s too thin, there’s a chance of cracks and inadequate coverage; if it’s too thick, there may be extra material costs and possible adhesion and drying problems.

It is crucial to consider elements such as surface condition, surrounding circumstances, and desired finish. Maintaining a smooth and even finish over time can be achieved by adhering to the recommended guidelines for plaster thickness. In the long run, careful planning and execution will save you time and effort, so take your time.

Remind yourself constantly that accuracy in plaster thickness can have a big impact on the final result, regardless of the size of the project. Your walls will look better and have more integrity if you take your time choosing the right finish and adhere to best practices.

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