Structural plaster for interior work

Structural plaster is a game-changer when it comes to giving interior walls a smooth, long-lasting finish. Structural plaster, in contrast to ordinary plaster, is intended to provide more than just a smooth surface. It is an excellent option for areas that experience a lot of wear and tear because it offers extra strength and resilience.

The capacity of structural plaster to increase the general stability of your walls is one of its most notable qualities. By filling in tiny holes and fissures, it can create a surface that is more level and sturdy. Because of this, it’s especially helpful in older structures where the walls may have moved or settled over time.

Its adaptability is an additional advantage. Structural plaster has many uses; it can be decorative or used to strengthen the substrate beneath paint or other finishes. It is also well-known for its insulating qualities, which support the maintenance of warm and energy-efficient interior spaces.

All things considered, structural plaster is a sensible and efficient option for improving the functionality and aesthetics of interior walls. This material provides a good answer, whether you’re trying to restore a historic house or just want to make sure your contemporary walls are as sturdy as possible.

Why do we need a structure for decor.

A multi-component building compound used for decorative wall finishing is called structural plaster. By this term, each manufacturer refers to the structure according to its own understanding.

While some assess the quality of the original composition, others gauge the success of the solution based on the texture that emerges on the wall. In reference to the latter, they assert that this type of plaster is a heterogeneous mixture made up of fractions with various quality attributes. Among them are:

  • cross-section of the inclusion (mm);
  • source material of the fraction;
  • granule shape;
  • origin of components.

Others place greater value on the composition’s exterior display on the wall, regardless of its internal organization. Once applied to the surface, the same structural plaster for interior work can take on any shape. Everything is dependent on the outcome.

From an aesthetic perspective, this method is intriguing because it lets you model the connection in a different way by letting you create and make new choices every time. As a result, the solution is clear: the structure makes it possible to produce a distinctive design. True masters use this actively, but they are few in number due to the high cost of the necessary supplies.

Options and types of finishing coating.

There are numerous ways in which structural decorative plasters vary from one another:

  1. source materials;
  2. color;
  3. viscosity;
  4. obedience of the solution;
  5. resistance of the finished coating;
  6. application thickness;
  7. curing speed.

These are typically ready-to-apply compounds that come in plastic packaging. For interior construction, structural plaster can be created using synthetic materials or minerals.

Important note: compositions containing polymer compositions are best suited for plaster applications in bathrooms. They will maximize the coating’s durability if they are used.

The composition will have unique properties based on the components that make it up. For instance, the mixture will allow the walls to "breathe" more easily the more mineral compounds it contains. It passes steam quite well, but to enhance its technical qualities, it frequently needs more painting or coating application.

Polymer plasters featuring unique constituents that vary in their filling composition. They resist moisture better and stop mold and fungus from growing.

There are three methods to get the mixture’s color:

  • during the production process;
  • before application;
  • after application.

The first is far easier to use because, unlike the latter, it doesn’t need special preparation. Typically, it’s made as a white paste that is painted once structure and full hardening have been provided.

The same, which is painted before application, entails varying the amount of color added to the building mixture—between 1 and 5 percent—based on the manufacturer’s specifications.

Tools and their forms.

Most of the time, mechanical application is not used for the application of decorative or structural plasters. Floats, spatulas, and trowels are used in the manual process. Large and medium spatulas are employed.

In order to prevent breaking the technology, they need to have a polished, smooth surface. Either plastic or metal may be used. When mechanics are permitted, which is not often, the composition is applied using a spray gun.

Before starting work, the solution is prepared and mixed. It needs to be done with a power tool because of its dense structure. You can use a powerful electric drill with a Whisk nozzle or a construction mixer.

Tools made by hand can be used occasionally. All materials are used to create texture, including brushes, plastic bottles, and any other item that can be used to leave a surface trace or distinctive imprint. You don’t have to limit yourself to makeshift supplies; you can build the structure yourself.

Technology: preparation and execution of work.

Since this is merely an aesthetic layer, the walls need to be level and free of drips and cracks before applying the coating. The removal of minor imperfections like raised ridges, scratches, and depressions is limited to the use of a thin-layer version of the mixture.

Priming the walls is necessary. This is required to ensure that the structural plaster is applied uniformly and doesn’t come off. The quality of the primer’s material base is taken into consideration when choosing it.

Applying the mixture to any wall:

  1. concrete;
  2. wooden;
  3. fiberboard, chipboard, MDF;
  4. plastic;
  5. gypsum;
  6. sand-marl;
  7. lime.

Crucial point: The base must not in any way alter the plaster’s appearance through its shape for it to serve its purely decorative purpose. Consequently, the surface preparation stage needs to be given careful consideration.

Adhesion-improving primers are used for hard bases, and deep penetration primers for loose bases. One layer of the solution is applied in tiny amounts to the prepared wall. Prior to this, the mixture is well-mixed until it has a uniform consistency because storage may cause compactions or liquid peeling.

Less than one to 1.5 square meters should be the treated area. This is because the acrylic base that is typically used to make them dries quickly, causing the solution to lose its plasticity. Since some of the options have already acquired technical hardness, they can be painted or waxed after an hour.

In the event that the plaster loses its plasticity, diluting it is permissible if it is water-based. However, the liquid must be blended into the main mixture until it is smooth.

Following application, DIY structural plaster is leveled using a spatula before using the chosen tool to create textures. Then take a step back. Apply the mixture in the same manner as you proceed to the next section. Thus, the processes carry on until the chosen object’s processing is entirely completed.

Await the surface’s technical hardness after structuring the entire area. Depending on the kind of combination used, the break time can range from one to twelve hours. The final step is to reveal the final shape by painting, polishing, waxing, or decorating the structural plaster.

Techniques for forming a structure.

The work’s most fascinating and labor-intensive phase. You must move as fast and effectively as you can to structure the solution while the mixture is still processing because it will be challenging to undo any mistakes that are made. Depending on the desired pattern, the structure can be obtained using any of the subsequent tools:

  • large or small spatula;
  • trowel;
  • special rollers;
  • a brush with large hard bristles;
  • wooden or plastic graters;
  • handy items.

Important note: Before making significant decisions, it’s crucial to practice applying the structure to the mixture. Errors can be prevented in this way, and a skilled hand will produce the same pattern across the whole surface.

The relief that emerges will line up with the tool’s surface trajectory. You can create waves, slick lines, or distinct parallel lines based only on your creativity and ability. It is crucial to plan ahead and consider the type of structure you need to achieve as well as the pattern you want.

Utilizing a trowel or graters, you can apply the "stick-off" method. In this instance, light peaks or waves will form and be directed toward the separation point. It is advised to remove the attached tool either at an angle, smoothly or sharply, or perpendicular to the wall being treated.

A spatula can be used to create chopping translational movements, smooth lines, or chaotic multidirectional patterns. Brushes can be scrolled on the spot to form concentric circles.

Surface drawings and volumetric paintings based on the stucco principle are the best examples of this kind of art. This kind of work is laborious and demands complete focus on the outcome; the artist’s skill is greatly appreciated in this case.

Manufacturers and brands.

Numerous options for both domestic and foreign production are available in the market. The Alpina structural plaster is among its most notable examples. It is created as a prefabricated white composition that needs to be painted after being applied.

One of those options that works best (and will save you time) is Alpina brand structural plaster applied with a spray gun. Facades use it because it can easily withstand fluctuations in the atmosphere.

Dufa’s Modellierputz structural modeling plaster is an additional choice. Its texture is pasty and granular, derived from a latex dispersion with mineral chips added. It can be tinted prior to application, which sets it apart from the previous version.

Because structural plaster has both practical and aesthetic advantages, it is essential for interior design projects. Along with providing a smooth, appealing finish that can improve a room’s overall appearance, it also reinforces walls and ceilings, assisting in the preservation of their durability and shape. This kind of plaster is adaptable, supporting a range of design philosophies and permitting artistic freedom in interior design. Structural plaster is a useful option that blends strength and beauty, whether you’re trying to hide flaws or give your area a new, polished look.

Pricing policy of organizations.

The compositions are not available for purchase or ordering everywhere due to their high price. The consumption, which mostly varies based on the application’s thickness, will determine the cost per square meter. Additionally unstable is the craftsmen’s payment per square meter of the treated surface. The least expensive structural plaster per square meter will be achieved with the simplest application method as opposed to the artistic style. If money is tight, your only option is to create structural plaster by hand.

Aspect Description
Definition Structural plaster is a type of plaster used to reinforce and support walls internally.
Purpose It provides strength and durability to walls, helping them withstand pressure and wear.
Materials Usually made from a mix of gypsum, lime, and other aggregates.
Application Applied over a base layer to create a solid, even surface on walls.
Benefits Improves wall strength, can help with thermal insulation, and offers a smooth finish.
Common Uses Often used in both residential and commercial buildings for load-bearing walls.
Maintenance Generally low maintenance, but should be checked for cracks or damage regularly.

More than just a surface treatment, structural plaster is an essential component of long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing interior design. When done right, it gives your walls more strength and resilience in addition to improving their appearance. Structural plaster is capable of handling any task, including uneven surfaces and the addition of texture.

It’s important to select the proper structural plaster type for your project. Different formulations, ranging from basic smoothing to more decorative effects, are made for different purposes. It’s critical to comprehend your unique needs and choose a plaster that satisfies them while staying within your spending limit and timeline.

Although applying structural plaster takes some skill, do-it-yourselfers can certainly master it with the right tools and methods. A long-lasting, polished finish can be achieved by adhering to best practices for application, curing, and preparation.

To sum up, structural plaster is a useful and adaptable material that can be used to improve the appearance and longevity of interior walls. Your space’s appearance and functionality can be enhanced with remarkable results that come from thoughtful application and selection.

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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.

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