Varnish for decorative plaster – brilliant design and protection of the walls of the house

Applying varnish to decorative plaster does more than just give your walls a polished appearance; it also prolongs their lifespan. Varnish can change the look and feel of your room, whether you want to add a glossy shine or shield your walls from normal wear and tear. It highlights the colors and textures of the plaster, giving your walls a smooth, completed look.

However, varnishing has advantages that go beyond appearance. Your ornamental plaster is shielded from moisture, dirt, and damage by a high-quality varnish. This safeguard is particularly crucial in spaces like bathrooms and kitchens where walls are subjected to greater humidity levels and possible stains. Applying varnish to your walls will ensure that they endure over time in addition to improving their aesthetic appeal.

It’s important to select the appropriate varnish for your decorative plaster. There are various varieties, ranging from high gloss to matte, and each has a distinct effect. Choosing the ideal varnish will be made easier if you are aware of the unique requirements of your area and the aesthetic you hope to accomplish. You can preserve the beauty and vibrancy of your walls for many years by making the right choice.

Why do you need to varnish plaster

The surface of decorative plaster, not covered with varnish, wax or paint, is a rough texture with numerous pores. It scatters incident light and breathes, absorbing vapors, odors and finely dispersed substances contained in the air through its pores. The open surface of the plaster is subject to abrasion and scratches. Thin relief protrusions can chip off under mechanical action. Wall varnish creates a strong transparent protective film that fits the protrusions of the texture, protecting the plaster coating from external influences and giving the surface a matte or mirror shine. The plaster solution already contains additives that increase the resistance of the coating to the effects of the UFL. However, additional protection will not be superfluous. Lessing material, protecting from exposure to ultraviolet radiation, contributes to a prolonged preservation of the brightness and juiciness of the color color of the decorative coating. The bactericidal substances contained in it become the first impassable antiseptic barrier for fungal and molds.

Advantages, disadvantages and beneficial properties

The following are the benefits of lacquer:

  • increases the strength of the plaster coating and resistance to scratching, abrasion, impacts;
  • fixes the color of the finish, preventing fading or a change in quality due to the rays of the sun or other reasons;
  • makes it possible to wash and clean the walls with detergents;
  • relatively highly high;
  • Easily evenly falls on flat and relief surfaces;
  • easily removed by solvents;
  • Water -based compounds are environmentally friendly, harmless.

Cons:

  • the total cost of the finish is increasing;
  • It is not easy to repair the damaged area unnoticed.

Using brushes, you can wash and clean the walls after applying plaster varnish. is a stand-alone ornamental tool that can be tinted, embellished with glitter, mother of pearl, or metal dust.

What varnish to cover decorative plaster with

Paint and varnish types are separated based on their intended use, base material, and the decorative effect they produce when applied. Of course, you can apply any composition to get a varnish coating, but materials that release toxic fumes when heated are not appropriate for use on decorative plaster in interior spaces. Understanding the varnish’s composition and the settings in which it will be applied will help you make an informed decision.

Acrylic varnish

Acrylic resins, or more specifically, their aqueous dispersion, form the foundation of this kind of varnish mixture. a transparent, milky-colored water-based liquid with a consistent composition and stabilizing agents added. The quick-drying varnish composition dries to a strong, transparent, non-yellowing film when applied to the plaster. Two weeks is the full strength gain period.

The mixture can be used in residential buildings despite being odorless and poisonous. One- and two-component versions with high-gloss and matte decorative effects are offered.

Benefits

  • does not burn;
  • has no odor;
  • does not turn yellow over time;
  • is easy to tint;
  • is environmentally friendly;
  • is easy to apply.

Polyurethane varnish

Alkyd-urethane resins serve as the composition’s foundation, and aliphatic hydrocarbons are unique additives. Although it is designed to cover wooden components, plasters can also benefit from its protective layer. Forms a very strong, highly elastic, and moisture-resistant film quickly after hardening.

Its chemical composition can be one-component (water-based) or two-component (polymers + hardener). Indoors, a water-based composition is utilized.

Benefits consist of:

  • high film strength;
  • high elasticity;
  • resistance to aggressive environments (cleaned with household chemicals);
  • good adhesion;
  • does not allow water to pass through, but allows walls to "breathe";
  • there is no smell when applied and dried.

Drawbacks:

  • afraid of alcohol and substances containing alcohol (stains remain after contact);
  • high price.

Facade materials

Exterior conditions are not appropriate for varnish compositions that dissolve in water. For facade work, varnish materials on organic solvents are used:

  • urethane group mixtures (highly decorative, expensive);
  • oil (inexpensive, not very resistant to mechanical impacts);
  • alkyd (more common, moisture-resistant, highly durable, dries in up to 3 days);
  • nitro varnishes (quick-drying, cheap, not waterproof enough);
  • bitumen (waterproof, not decorative);
  • shellacs (natural, expensive, highly decorative);
  • epoxy (durable, waterproof, environmentally friendly after drying, resistant to harmful chemicals),
  • silicone (diluted with toluene or xylene up to 7% by weight, applied at a temperature of +20 ° C).

Special decorative materials

Additionally offered ready-made:

  • craquelure (for cracking and artificial aging of plastered surfaces);
  • gold and silver (the color is formed due to a special pigment);
  • mother-of-pearl (gives a beautiful pearly shimmer);
  • with a holographic effect.

How to prepare a surface for glazing compoundsm

Plaster needs time to dry fully before glazing. It is cleaned of any dust and lumps that remained after processing. Prior priming is not necessary for staining. Nevertheless, it is feasible to apply two coats of primer with the same base as the varnish to the plaster for improved adhesion and to use less costly materials. Specialized compounds are used to remove any previous varnish coating from the plaster coating. In order to improve adhesion, surfaces coated with alkyd and water-dispersed paints are cleaned and sanded (the dust that results is then removed).

Tool for applying glaze

Use the following to apply a varnish mixture to decorative plaster:

  • rollers with rounded edges (the best tool for acrylic mixture);
  • paint brushes;
  • sponge;
  • spray gun;
  • masking tape to protect nearby structures and wall sections;
  • pieces of fabric.

After work, the glazing tool is thoroughly cleaned with water to prevent it from hardening.

Application technology

Varnish compositions are unpredictable, necessitating strict adherence to guidelines when glazing.

Conditions for application:

  • The air temperature for applying acrylic varnish for decorative plaster is limited to the range from +10 ° C to +35 ° C, humidity – 80%.
  • For polyurethane varnish, the air temperature is from +18 ° C to +25 ° C, the optimal humidity is 55-60%.
  • The place of painting works is covered from drafts and exposure to sunlight.
  • The temperature of the varnish composition from +13 ° C.

Read also: Textured plaster – relief wall decoration that attracts the eye

It is advised to periodically shake the varnish material container while working to slow down the varnish material’s hardening inside the container. The same procedure is followed to prevent glitter and metallic powder from settling. Applying layers of a multi-layer coating happens every two to three hours.

Prior to work, two-component mixtures are lightly stirred with a hardener. To get rid of air bubbles, wait fifteen minutes. When working, adhere to the instructions. Dilution with water is permitted if the water-soluble composition has thickened (the volume is specified in the instructions).

Polyurethane varnishes are tinted immediately prior to painting.

Without stopping, the varnish is applied to the wall’s surface. After drying, the joints created during a break will be apparent. The order of work is preplanned to prevent their formation. If there is a lot of ground to cover, collaborate or use a spray gun to apply the varnish.

When applying with a roller or brush – take a foam roller with rounded edges, before applying, roll the roller with varnish on any flat surface, apply with multidirectional movements.

  • When applying with a sponge – apply the composition to the entire area with circular movements. With the help of a sponge, it is also possible to obtain decorative effects when applying varnish not on the entire surface, but only in places with tamping movements.
  • Mechanical application — ​​application is carried out with a spray gun. The consistency is selected individually depending on the equipment and the manufacturer, be sure to make test paintings before working on large areas.
  • When applying manually, the corners are treated with a thin brush.

    There are no gaps in the thin layer of varnish material that is applied.

    Painting with varnish

    Certain types of colors work well with different paint and varnish types.

    These colors are not appropriate for facade work if they contain organic pigments. To ensure that the dye is fully dissolved, the varnish color is added gradually to the container containing the varnish material, stirring the mixture after each addition of color. To verify if the material is the right shade, a test painting is created. With a small reserve, the amount of varnish composition needed to cover the entire wall is instantly tinted.

    The number and thickness of varnish layers applied determine the saturation of the shade during tinting and varnishing. When varnish dries on flat surfaces, adjacent varnish stripes that are not shaded will show up as overlap. Consequently, working with tinted varnish material is more challenging.

    Experts advise against using LKS on organic solvents right away for novices. Water-soluble materials are easier to tint and apply, and they dry more quickly, so it is preferable to practice glazing on them.

    Varnish compositions are enhanced by mother-of-pearl, metal dust, and glitters in addition to color. Everything is easier here; just combine. During work, these compositions are frequently mixed and diluted with water. Paints and varnishes used for decoration are considered finishing coats.

    Recipe for making varnish for decorative plaster

    Independently preparing decorative varnish from scratch is challenging. Improving the water-based material that was purchased is simpler. The video demonstrates how to create a glittery decorative composition for decorative plaster using your hands.

    It is not always appropriate for the decorative coating to have an excessively glossy surface because it looks unnatural. Shiny surfaces don’t belong where the eyes need to rest. A straightforward method of reducing the gloss is to dilute the varnish composition 1:1 with water. One-tenth or one-third of the varnish’s weight is typically used as the water proportion.

    Read also: How to paint decorative plaster with your own hands, step-by-step technology

    One liter of glaze mixture requires one halliter of glitter to produce a shimmering effect.

    Glaze glaze varnish:

    • take 60 g of water-dispersible acrylic varnish;
    • add 20 ml of water to the container;
    • add 1 g of glitter;
    • stir.

    Glazing composition using adhesive wallpaper:

    • 2 parts of wallpaper glue diluted in water are mixed with 1 part of acrylic varnish;
    • The resulting mixture is tinted in the desired color.

    The mixture containing wallpaper glue has a putty-like consistency. Using a rubber spatula with crush (to fill the crevices) on the cut, apply it to the textured coating.

    For instance, paint the entire surface in a light color first if a two-color bark beetle coating is required (the main tone being light, the passages being dark). Azure decorative plaster has a deep color. applied for tearing using a rubber spatula. Consequently, the relief’s tops are lighter than the depressions.

    A decorative plaster varnish is the ideal way to protect and enhance the walls in your house. It adds a gorgeous glossy finish that highlights the texture of the plaster and acts as a strong defense against deterioration. This keeps your walls vibrant and new-looking for years to come, and it also makes cleaning and upkeep easier. Varnishing your decorative plaster is a great way to blend style and functionality, whether your goal is a sleek, contemporary appearance or a timeless, classic finish.

    Advantages over wax

    Wax is an additional glazing composition for ornamental plaster. For Venetian plaster, for instance, wax compositions create a long-lasting film that protects the plaster finish. There are variations between these two types of coatings, even though they are applied to the wall in the same manner as varnishes.

    • With uneven distribution of the layer, transparent varnish does not form dark spots, like wax;
    • Wax film is less durable;
    • Wax film can only be removed by grinding, while varnish is washed off with a solvent;
    • Varnish coating is more durable but more expensive.

    Care for a treated surface

    Dust settles on varnished walls, which is the main issue. For dust removal, a vacuum cleaner can be used. It’s also acceptable to clean wet using a sponge and soap solution. The varnishing agent’s instructions specify how to prepare walls for cleaning.

    Producers of LKS offer items for maintaining varnished surfaces, such as:

    • 1-2 times a week, use clinker concentrators;
    • Removers for removing heavy dirt;
    • To renew the varnish, 3-4 times a year, use polishes;
    • Restorers on polyurethane dispersion (not more than once every six months).
    Varnish Type Description
    Glossy Gives walls a shiny finish, enhancing colors and patterns of the plaster.
    Matte Offers a smooth finish without shine, ideal for a more subtle look.
    Satin Combines soft shine with a smooth finish, balancing elegance and practicality.
    Water-based Eco-friendly option, quick drying with low odor.
    Oil-based Durable and resistant, but with a longer drying time and stronger smell.

    Refinishing decorative plaster is an easy yet effective way to improve the longevity and appearance of your walls. In addition to adding a lovely sheen and highlighting the depth of color and texture, varnish acts as a barrier against stains, wear, and moisture. It is a sensible option for any home because of these two advantages.

    Varnish keeps dirt and dust from getting into the plaster by sealing it, which makes it simpler to clean and maintain. This is particularly helpful in moist or high-traffic areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. The life of your decorative plaster can be prolonged and maintained looking brand-new for many years with a well-applied varnish.

    Whatever your design objectives, there is a varnish option that can achieve a smooth, glossy finish or a more subdued satin effect. You can perfectly match your interior style with the final look of your walls thanks to the variety of finishes available. In the end, varnishing your decorative plaster is a wise investment that will enhance the longevity and aesthetic appeal of the walls in your house.

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    Elena Sokolova

    Architect and interior designer with a deep interest in traditional and modern methods of wall finishing. On the site I share tips on choosing materials and techniques that help create a cozy and stylish space.

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