A satisfying do-it-yourself project that can dramatically improve the look of your house is plastering window slopes. A polished and professional appearance is achieved by well-plastered slopes on windows, whether you’re finishing a new build or renovating an older home. Smooth, long-lasting slopes that go well with your interior decor can be achieved with a little perseverance and the correct supplies.
In addition to saving money, doing this task yourself will give you the satisfaction of creating something by hand. Even novices can find the process manageable with clear instructions and a step-by-step approach, although it may initially seem intimidating if you’re new to plastering.
We’ll walk you through every step of plastering window slopes in this guide, from surface preparation to final touches. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the know-how and self-assurance to take on this project and enhance the appearance of your windows.
| Step | Instruction |
| 1 | Prepare the surface by cleaning and dampening the window slopes. |
| 2 | Apply a primer to the surface for better adhesion. |
| 3 | Mix the plaster according to the manufacturer"s instructions. |
| 4 | Apply the first layer of plaster evenly across the slopes using a trowel. |
| 5 | Let the first layer dry slightly, then smooth it out. |
| 6 | Apply a second layer if needed for a smoother finish. |
| 7 | Once the plaster is dry, sand the surface for a clean finish. |
| 8 | Prime and paint the slopes if desired. |
Which slopes are better: plastic or plaster?
New technologies and building materials are gradually replacing plaster. PVC-made slopes (also known as sandwich panels) are its primary rival in the lower price range. It will be easier to compare the key benefits and drawbacks of both materials in order to make an informed decision in a given situation.
Benefits of plaster:
- Plastering is the most economical way to finish window slopes.
- The material is characterized by high strength and resistance to mechanical damage.
- Additional protection against moisture can be easily obtained by painting slopes with oil paint.
- Serves as an excellent basis for lining with a decorative stone or external textured layer.
- Has a long service life. Chips and scratches are easy to smear, restoring the previous type of finish.
Drawbacks of plaster:
- In terms of its thermal insulation qualities, such a decoration is noticeably inferior to polyurethane foam, which are embedded in the installation of plastic windows.
- Wet finishing work require more time.
- There are quite a lot of garbage, dust and dirt. To prevent the solution from sticking to the floor, it is necessary to lay a film in advance.
- Compositions on a cement binder shrink, so after some time it may be necessary to seal the cracks. Gypsum plaster is sensitive to moisture.
PVC benefits
- No wet processes. Installation of plastic slopes takes several hours.
- A wide range of panels and corners of different colors for slope decoration on sale.
- Plastic is resistant to moisture, not afraid of fungus.
- They are part of the plastic window system. Look most natural and harmonious with them in a pair.
- Easy to maintain. Sometimes it is enough to simply wash them with a soap solution.
Cons of PVC:
- Mechanically damaged slope elements cannot be restored.
- The material is less environmentally friendly in comparison with traditional plaster solutions. Plastic does not support natural air and moisture exchange.
What to plaster with
A long-lasting plaster made of cement or lime is needed for exterior slopes. These binders provide greater temperature stability and high air humidity resistance in solutions.
I use gypsum mixtures for interior work; this is a sensible way to save costs and time. Gypsum plasters are another reason I like them: once applied, they can be polished or rubbed, leaving a smooth surface and eliminating the need for putty.
Work technology
I’ll now show you how to plaster slopes on windows correctly and quickly. You’ll require the following instrument:
- building level and 90º square;
- perforated painter"s corner;
- trowel, narrow and wide spatulas
- plaster float with mesh;
- container for preparing the solution;
- acrylic primer + roller or paint brushes;
Order of work:
- Determine the degree of unevenness of the wall. The more significant it is, the thicker the layer of plaster will need to be laid. This will affect the consumption of material.
- If the window sill is already installed, it is covered with film, cardboard or several layers of paper. To protect the window sash, it is also necessary to cover it with a film using masking tape.
- The slopes are cleaned of old finishing, as well as dust and dirt. The surface must be clean and smooth.
Important: Oil paint residues can cause fresh plaster to peel off quickly by virtually eliminating the adhesion between the wall and the plaster.
Important: A fiberglass plaster mesh must be installed if the plaster layer is thicker than 30 mm.
Making plaster window slopes by hand is a useful and satisfying project that can improve the appearance and energy efficiency of your windows. This tutorial will take you step-by-step through the entire process, from plaster application to surface preparation to producing a polished, smooth finish. You will be able to give your windows a polished appearance that lasts with a few simple tools and some perseverance.
How to make a “dawn corner” on slopes
Unfolded slopes are those that form the so-called "angle dawn" when they are at an angle greater than 90 degrees with respect to the window. This traditional style of window opening lets in more light into the space.
Every slope in the room has the same "dawn angle" on the top and sides of the window. Add 10 to 15 degrees to the right angle. Excessively large curves appear absurd in contemporary design, and they are frequently unachievable.
Plastering at the "angle of dawn" uses a slightly different technology than what is described above.
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The distance from the window frame to the wall is measured on three sides of the window (distance L in Fig.1).
Doing your own plastering of window slopes is a satisfying project that will improve the look of your house and save costs. Results that look professional can be achieved even by a novice by following the detailed instructions.
A long-lasting and beautiful result can be achieved by taking the time to meticulously prepare the surfaces, apply the plaster layers evenly, and finish with accuracy. The secret is to proceed with patience and pay close attention to every detail.
Recall that the finishing touches, like painting and smoothing, can greatly alter how the window slopes appear overall. You can confidently take on this task and feel the satisfaction of a job well done if you have the right tools and techniques.
