Pebble plaster is a worthy option for wall decoration ?

More people are becoming aware of pebble plaster as a chic and long-lasting option for wall décor. This kind of plaster gives walls, both inside and outside, a distinctive touch because of its textured finish. Its appearance as natural stone can improve any space’s aesthetic appeal by giving walls a unique, classic appearance.

The adaptability of pebble plaster is one of its main benefits. It works well on a variety of surfaces and complements both modern and rustic architectural designs. Renovations can benefit from the texture’s dual benefits of adding depth and concealing small wall imperfections.

Pebble plaster has an attractive appearance, but it’s also very durable. It is a great choice for outdoor walls because it can tolerate severe weather. It also needs little upkeep, which is a plus for time-pressed homeowners everywhere.

Pebble plaster is definitely something you should look into if you’re looking for a wall finish that blends style, functionality, and durability. It strikes a wonderful mix between design and utility, making it a viable choice for anyone looking to update their wall décor.

Pros of Pebble Plaster Cons of Pebble Plaster
Durable and long-lasting finish More expensive than other plaster types
Unique and textured appearance Can be challenging to apply evenly
Resistant to weather and moisture Requires regular maintenance
Low maintenance after installation Limited color options compared to other finishes
Enhances aesthetic appeal Heavier, may need stronger wall support

Description

The tiny stones, which range in size from 1 to 5 mm, are what give this kind of ornamental plaster its name. The most common materials used are bits of granite, marble, or artificial stone inclusions. The coating’s texture is created by the stone granules.

The solution’s composition includes synthetic binders for increased strength. Mineral (cement), silicate, or acrylic can be used as the material’s base.

Pebble plaster can be an excellent material for interior work, even though it is most commonly used for finishing facades.

Benefits and drawbacks

When selecting this kind of coating for wall finishing, there are several benefits.

  • Moisture resistance. Can be used in the kitchen or bathroom, because it perfectly resists water jets.
  • The plaster is odorless and environmentally friendly, can be used in rooms where children live.
    The mixture is resistant to fungus and mold.
  • Vapor permeability. Walls covered with this material are able to "breathe", which creates a healthy microclimate inside the room.
  • Resistant to difficult weather conditions and sudden temperature changes.
  • If the application rules are followed, the surface looks very impressive, has no seams.
  • Such a coating does not crack, tolerates mechanical stress well and can last a long time without restoration.
  • If the technology is followed, the finishing can be done by hand.
  • The material is relatively inexpensive and economically consumed.

But because of the relief surface, the coating eventually gathers dust, which is particularly apparent when applied to a building’s exterior finishing.

Types of pebble plaster

  • Marble/granite. This type of pebble coating can have a cement or polymer base. It allows vapor to pass through well and is resistant to moisture. The material can be tinted. When adding pigment to the solution, it should be thoroughly mixed so that the surface is evenly colored. For interior decoration, the plaster can be additionally coated with varnish, which will improve its strength and moisture resistance.
  • Mosaic. Combines stone chips of different colors and sizes. When coated, it creates an interesting mosaic effect. Often used on facades because it is resistant to weather conditions, sunlight and mechanical impacts. Such plaster is not tinted because it itself creates a unique pattern.
  • Bark beetle. To create this structure, a mixture with fewer granules is needed. They are the ones that form the relief: at the final stage of finishing, when grouting the plaster with a plastic trowel, horizontal or vertical grooves are obtained.

Pebble plaster is a great option for wall decoration because it is long-lasting and has a naturally textured finish that gives any room character. This adaptable material is a wise choice for both indoor and outdoor applications because it not only improves the visual appeal but also offers a durable, low-maintenance surface.

Photos of interiors and facade walls

The range of interior design possibilities that can be realized with pebble decorative plaster is seen below. There are multiple facade design examples in the picture as well.

Application technology

The walls must first be prepped before the solution is applied. To ensure the longest possible lifespan for the coating, the work surface must be thoroughly cleaned, any cracks and major flaws sealed. Subsequently, the wall needs to be primed using a primer appropriate for the chosen kind of solution, and allowed to dry.

The plaster mixture’s preparation. If the pebble plaster is bought dry, it is important to mix the mixture as homogeneously as possible because dry lumps are not acceptable. For mixing, use a construction mixer or a drill with an adaptor. Keep in mind that the material solidifies rapidly, so you won’t have much time to work after preparing; therefore, every move you make needs to be well-planned and deliberate.

Chipped polymer coatings (acrylic, silicone) are available pre-made. Apply a large amount of paint (tint) beforehand if needed.

Putting in plaster. You can now move on to the finishing phase. Prepare ahead of time by gathering the following tools: a medium and narrow spatula, and a metal trowel.

  1. Use a spatula to apply the finished plaster from the bucket to the trowel. The longer the trowel, the neater the finished surface will look. However, if you are a beginner, it is better to practice on a medium-sized tool.
  2. Tilt the tool at an angle to the wall and begin application, moving the trowel from bottom to top. The less solution remains on it, the smaller the angle of inclination should be, at the end keep it almost parallel to the surface. Repeat the steps until you cover the entire surface. Do not leave gaps, smooth out the bumps.
  3. Excess mixture collected from the wall should not be reapplied, it is thrown back into the bucket with plaster. The fact is that only the liquid part of the solution, without pebbles, is collected on the trowel, and in those areas that you will cover with this solution, the relief may be disturbed.
  4. Use a narrow spatula near window openings, and take a wider tool for leveling.

The material is applied in an even layer the thickness of the grain. Drying time is 12-24 hours.

Plaster application can be done mechanically. In this instance, a cartridge gun’s tank is filled with the solution, which is then forced onto the wall. Time is greatly saved with this method. When using the gun, cover up with work clothes to protect your respiratory system.

Maintain the tool’s distance from the wall at around 50 centimeters. Make sure the solution stays away from windows and doors; it is preferable to cover them with masking tape and film. A trowel can be used to level the plaster after it has been applied.

Consumption per 1 m2

The size of the fraction (grain) has a significant impact on how much of the mixture is consumed. It turns out that the coating layer is thicker on larger pebbles. The following values can be your main focus:

  • Fine chips 1-1.5 mm = 1.5-2 kg / m2.
  • Medium chips 2-2.5-3 mm = 3-3.5 kg / m2.

Here are a few manufacturers as examples.

  • Bolars. White plaster based on granite chips, can be tinted. When using this solution, a relief in the form of small pebbles is obtained. Marble chips are already used in the composition of Bolars Crystal. Pebbles have a diameter of 1.5 or 2 mm. This solution is often used in interior decoration.
  • Knauf Diamant. Mineral plaster for creating granular relief for interior and exterior finishing. To achieve the "fur coat" effect, a solution with grains of 3 mm in diameter is used, for "bark beetle" the diameter of the pebbles is 2.5 mm. Dries quickly, does not tolerate delays in work.

If you want to add some texture and individuality to your walls, pebble plaster is a great option. It’s strong, and the organic stone components can give any area a cozy, earthy feel. It is also a flexible option for a range of projects because it functions well both indoors and outdoors.

The results are frequently worth the extra effort, even though applying it might take a little longer than with ordinary plaster. The unique finish can add a unique touch of character to your house that other wall treatments might not be able to.

Pebble plaster may be your best bet if you’re searching for a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution. For those who want their wall décor to leave a lasting impression, it’s a respectable choice.

Video on the topic

Decorative plaster structural. Pebble

Decorative pebble plaster. How to work with it.

Description and application of silicate silicone decorative plaster Ceresit CT 174 "pebble" fact

Decorative acrylic plaster "pebble" CERESIT CT 60

What type of plaster do you prefer to use in your projects?
Share to friends
Andrey Ivanov

An experienced builder with more than 15 years of experience. I specialize in plastering and decorative finishing. I started my career as an ordinary worker, gradually accumulating knowledge and skills in various finishing techniques. Now I share my experience to help beginners master the craft and avoid common mistakes.

Rate author
Kaskad-M.com
Add a comment