Reinforcing mesh for facade plaster walls

For facade plaster to remain strong and long-lasting, reinforcement mesh is essential. Whether you’re building something new or remodeling an existing exterior, using the appropriate mesh can help avoid common problems like uneven surfaces and cracking.

When properly installed, the mesh strengthens the plaster, increasing its resistance to external stressors like moisture, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical impacts. It keeps the layers of plaster firmly in place and functions as your facade’s backbone.

A smooth and stable finish can only be attained by being aware of the different kinds of reinforcing mesh that are available and how to install them correctly. This post examines the choices and rules you should be aware of when utilizing mesh in facade plastering projects.

Types of reinforcing mesh for plaster.

Metal mesh and polyurethane mesh are the two types of plaster mesh available on the market today. Every one of them has unique qualities and applications. and is further separated into multiple categories:

Masonry mesh, also known as painting mesh, is a type of plastic (polymer) with five by five millimeter cells that is used to finish brick walls both inside and outside of buildings. It works well when plastering with gypsum mortar in the absence of cement.

Universal small is a polyurethane material with a side cell measurement of six by six millimeters. It is used in conjunction with finishing and plastering mixtures to create a 20 mm woven mesh that is appropriate for interior decoration of buildings.

Universal medium mesh, which is typically used for interior building construction, has rectangular cells measuring 14 by 15 millimeters.

Universal large mesh with cells that measure 22 and 35 millimeters on each side is useful for plastering facade walls and is suitable for finishing large spaces like warehouses or production workshops because it can withstand loads and temperature fluctuations.

Fiberglass is the best material to use with cement mixtures because it is made of fiberglass that has been pre-treated using a special method; its cells are five by five millimeters; it can "work" anywhere and can withstand both high and low temperatures as well as exposure to precipitation and chemicals.

Plurima, which is a biaxially oriented structure with sides that measure five by six millimeters and is made of polypropylene; it is not affected by chemical compounds; lightweight; suitable for both outdoor and indoor use.

Armaflex is a polypropylene product with reinforced connections and cells measuring 12 by 15 millimeters. Its ultra-high strength makes it possible to use this product to create thick mortar layers, and it can be used to form a facade plaster reinforcing layer.

Syntoflex mesh is made of polypropylene and comes in two cell sizes: 12 by 14 and 22 by 35 millimeters. It is unique in that it is lightweight and has inert qualities that make it resistant to the chemical effects of different substances. It can be used for a variety of purposes both inside and outside of buildings, and plastering external walls is a great use for it.

Steel mesh is made of rods joined at their intersections by soldering; it comes in a variety of cell options and is appropriate for heavy loads where a thick layer needs to be formed.

One of the most widely used forms of reinforcing mesh on the Russian market is galvanized mesh, which is composed of galvanized metal rods and comes in a variety of cell sizes. It is extremely durable and is used for facades and interiors.

Fastening the mesh.

The reinforcing mesh for plastering walls is attached to the wall or ceiling in a variety of ways, depending on the type of mesh and plaster composition:

• The mortar itself can act as a fastener:
• self-tapping screws or screws can be used.

The manner in which the mixture is applied also influences the particular decision. Therefore, the mesh for plastering walls can be affixed to the initial layer of plaster if the covering method is employed.

It is most convenient to use a splash after it has been fixed to the wall and filled with plaster mixture. In this instance, it is important to pay close attention to how well the solution sticks to the surface being finished.

It is thought that pre-attaching the reinforced mesh for plastering to a dry wall with screws, self-tapping screws, and other tools is the best approach. Subsequently, the mixture is applied evenly across the entire surface that needs to be finished.

When a mesh is used for plastering walls?

Experts suggest considering a number of critical factors before utilizing a reinforcing mesh.

1. First, understand how thick the mortar layer is supposed to be on a specific surface of the wall or ceiling. This is important, since the thickness of the construction mesh depends on this factor. To do this, take the following measurements: find the most protruding point on the wall or ceiling. Use one of the levels – laser or construction. Then look for the "lowest" place. Determine how thick the plaster layer needs to be.
2. When the mortar layer is no more than twenty millimeters, and there are no rustications or significant protrusions on the ceiling or wall, reinforcement can not be used – the mixture can hold on its own.
3. With a layer thickness of twenty to thirty millimeters, reinforcement will be needed. Without it, the coating can peel off over time, cracks may appear. A polymer mesh or fiberglass will do. It will prevent cracks from forming on the finished surface of the dried mixture.
4. A layer of more than thirty millimeters requires the use of a metal material. This will help to avoid peeling of the plaster under its own weight.
5. If measurements have shown that to level the surface it is necessary to apply a solution layer of fifty millimeters or more, it is better to choose another: instead of plaster, use, for example, plasterboard or suspended ceilings, or other materials. They will allow you to hide significant depressions, protrusions.
   Is a mesh needed when plastering aerated concrete? In order for the mixture to adhere well to foam blocks, it is better to use it.

Installation work.

The installation process is divided into several steps.

The area that needs to be plastered is first cleaned and primed with a unique substance. This is required to guarantee that the solution adheres well to the wall or ceiling.

Subsequently, to facilitate handling, the chain-link mesh used for plastering walls is divided into sheets. It is important to keep in mind that solid sheets should be used as reinforcement along wall joints and ceiling rustications. When the edge is on the wall next to it or there is a ten to fifteen millimeter bend in the wall, it is good. The corners are strengthened as a result. Getting the plaster at the right angle is crucial.

Every variety of plaster construction mesh has a unique technology. For instance, the initial layer is reinforced with fiberglass material. After slightly pressing it in, the following layer is put on. Plaster fiberglass mesh is inserted into the plaster layer.

Some experts recommend using screws and self-tapping screws instead of other fasteners to ensure that the fiberglass mesh beneath the plaster stays in place. Initially, sixteen holes are marked per square meter on the surface.

The chosen locations for the dowels or screws are then drilled with holes. in order for their heads to slightly protrude above the ceiling or wall. The plaster mixture is spread in its first layer. The heads are covered in mesh. Put on a plaster covering.

One crucial thing to remember is that it is best to cover the entire area with the mixture, but it should be applied in various directions, starting in the middle. In parallel, a wide spatula is used to press the canvas’s edges at the corners. Additionally, smoothing is done with the second spatula.

It is advised to drill holes before fasteners are inserted when plastering the ceiling. Next, use mounting tape to adhere the plaster reinforcement to the ceiling. This choice makes sense if a lightweight material is employed. Next, metal plaster markers are positioned. It is applied with the mixture. Making sure it is fixed on the ceiling surface and fills the cells is crucial.

For facade plaster walls, reinforcing mesh is necessary because it increases the plaster’s strength, lowers the chance of cracks, and guarantees a longer-lasting finish. The mesh adds extra support by distributing tension evenly across the surface, especially in areas that are subject to weather exposure or stress. A durable and aesthetically pleasing exterior can be achieved with this easy-to-use yet efficient solution.

Metal mesh.

As previously mentioned, metal mesh is utilized for wall plastering when a mortar layer of thirty millimeters or greater is required. Selecting galvanized with ten by ten or twelve by twelve millimeter cells is preferable.

Another appropriate option is an expanded metal mesh with cells measuring 10 by 25 millimeters. Experts advise degreasing metal reinforcement before beginning any work on it.

Then, using scissors, cut it into individual pieces, keeping in mind where you want to place them on the wall or ceiling surface.

Then, drill holes for the fasteners using a hammer drill. It is advised that you choose a distance of between 25 and 30 centimeters. Therefore, each "square" should have roughly sixteen holes.

The next step is to use screws, dowels, or self-tapping screws (if finishing a plasterboard surface) to fasten the metal mesh for plaster reinforcement. Mounting tape is also used to secure the material. There should be a ten millimeter overlap between each piece. Drill extra fastener holes if needed to ensure that the reinforcement stays fixed to the ceiling.

Next, they placed beacons for construction. Utilizing the cell, apply the first layer of solution. The solution must be carefully paved through the cells. Then, spread it evenly across the whole area. After the layer has dried, move on to the next.

Choose metal.

When surface drops exceed four centimeters, metal professionals are advised to select a grid for plaster. Strong metal will aid in maintaining the thick layer of solution that needs to be applied in this case.

If the mixture includes cement, which contains the alkali, then steel materials are the only choice. In actuality, metal is less susceptible to alkali than plastic.

Metal reinforcement is also necessary when using clay as a solution. Material that works well with 50 by 50 millimeter cells.

There are various uses for a mesh for the facade’s plaster walls. It is made from thicker wire and has a larger cell for screeds. In plastering, the cells are typically 30 by 30 millimeters in size, but the wire can be as thick as 1.5 millimeters.

Another point: roll material is used for facade work. Sectional material is typically used indoors.

The question of price.

In Russia, reinforcement mesh can be purchased for as little as thirty rubles per square meter these days. The type, composition, and manufacturer all affect the exact cost per square meter. It is available in many stores that sell finishing materials.

The cost of all plastering work on walls or ceilings includes the installation of plastic mesh for walls and other types, which can be ordered from specialized companies. These services start at 400 rubles per square meter.

Do it yourself.

• the plaster will adhere firmly to the surface;
• the surface of the plaster layer will not bulge;
• the plaster will not peel off from the wall or ceiling;
• the service life of the plaster will increase;
• the quality of the decorative finish will improve;

Selecting the appropriate reinforcing mesh is necessary to create facade plaster walls that are strong and long-lasting. Particularly when applied under difficult circumstances, it improves the plaster layer’s overall stability and helps prevent cracks.

Take into account variables such as mesh type, thickness, and size according to the particular requirements of your project. To get the most out of your mesh, whether it’s made of plastic, metal, or fiberglass, installation must be done correctly.

You can safeguard your facade from common problems like cracking and make sure it stays aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound for many years to come by investing in high-quality mesh and making sure it is applied correctly.