What is better for wall decoration: decorative plaster or liquid wallpaper?

Decorative plaster and liquid wallpaper are two well-liked wall finishing options that compliment both style and functionality. Every one of them has distinct qualities, which can make choosing a little difficult.

Decorative plaster is renowned for producing textured, artistic surfaces and for being extremely durable. With a range of patterns and effects, it can turn plain walls into striking features. However, liquid wallpaper offers a softer, more understated finish that combines the plastering application’s ease of use with the wallpaper’s appearance.

Because each material has advantages and disadvantages, the best option will rely on your personal requirements and aesthetic preferences. Making an informed decision that complements your space and style can be facilitated by being aware of the main differences.

Brief description of materials and their types

Due to their many similarities, the two finishing materials under consideration are occasionally mistakenly regarded as one and the same. This would be the case if there weren’t notable variations in their composition, which show up in various ways even during the production of dry mixes (henceforth abbreviated as SS), impact dough mixing and application technology, and endow the finished product with unique qualities. Utilization-related finish maintenance also differs.

The ancient Harappans, Sumerians, and Assyrians employed decorative plaster as a traditional building material. Three ingredients make up the dough: water, a mineral binder, and a filler (either mineral or with organic matter added). More artificial materials, such as polymers, modifying additives, granules and fibers, and decorative elements, are used in modern plaster mixtures.

Originally, people used basic mineral binders like gypsum, clay, or lime to finish mixtures. Getting them doesn’t require any extra work. Modern plasters also contain liquid glass, synthetic resins, and cements (of which there are numerous varieties).

The categorization of decorative plasters is based on the type of binder used.

• acrylic;
• silicate (liquid glass);
• mineral;
• silicone.

The inventory of fillers has grown. A variety of synthetic fibers, granules, flocks, metal dust, shavings, mother-of-pearl, stone chips, and glitter are mixed with sand, sawdust, and wool. Fillers are available in various shapes and sizes. They are employed to produce the texture and structure of the coating in addition to its main mass. For instance, large sand grains are used in bark beetle plasters, and the fibers aid in the formation of especially pronounced relief forms by rolling the grains to create a pattern.

Additives are unique in that they provide extra properties to the solution. They improve workability, resistance to the damaging effects of frost, and resistance to outside mechanical or natural forces. Additives can be synthetic or natural.

Plasters for decoration are:

In essence, the binders are "capricious" when it comes to the ways that the decorative solution is prepared, applied, and hardened. Plasterers even employ a few "whims" to produce novel decorative effects, like interior craquelure. Of course, in the end, cracks are an unacceptable flaw. As such, it is imperative that the terms be met.

The modern material known as liquid wallpaper originated in France. Because the new finish resembles plaster dough, people refer to it as silk, liquid, or Danish plaster. SS and water are combined to create the working mass, which is then applied using a trowel, spatula, or float when plastering. It solidifies like plaster and creates a monolithic, or seamless, layer. It’s sold dry or ready-made, just like plaster composition.

The composition’s binding elements, which include a significant amount of fibrous inclusions and the lack of sand, are the primary differences. Quartz sand is included as a decorative element in certain mixtures. Additives, both decorative and modificative, are also included in the composition.

Water-based glue (such as CMC, PVA, latex, and other water-dispersed adhesive materials) is the primary astringent. There is no chemical crystallization of water-soluble binder particles during the glue’s drying process. When dissolved in water, sticky particles cling to one another; the closer and more powerful the bond, the less water there is between them. Adhesives soluble in water don’t release any toxic gases.

Fibers, whether synthetic or natural, make up the majority of the filler in liquid wallpaper. The masses of liquid wallpaper are classified according to the type of fiber used.

• cellulose (popularly called sawdust), recycled wood waste is used for filler;
• cotton (also called paper);
• silk (which gave rise to the name “silk plaster”), mostly artificial viscose fibers mixed with natural threads of cut silk;
• combined.

The coating’s surface is embellished with decorative elements. While some are sold separately, others are included in mixtures made by manufacturers. Glitter and threads underneath and within the adhesive are visible from the exterior due to the adhesive film’s transparency. Modifiers, or additives that adjust the mass’s characteristics, are also included in the composition, albeit in smaller amounts.

General advantages and disadvantages

Both materials are comparable in that regard.

• the dough is prepared from a dry mixture and water;
• the entire mass contained in one package must be closed;
• the composition can be prepared by hand;
• ready-made compositions are available for sale (in buckets);
• requires preparation, as well as priming the walls;
• applied to the base with strokes using plastering tools;
• requires positive temperatures during application;
• can be varnished or painted.

Maybe all of these parallels exist. Let’s examine the benefits shared by the materials under comparison:

• formation of monolithic seamless coatings;
• ability to hide small irregularities;
• the ability to create unique patterns and shapes, scope for creative imagination;
• the ability to create decor of any style;
• eco-friendliness;
• fire safety;
• strong adhesion to the base;
• versatility of use (can be applied to bases made of different materials);
• even out the microclimate of the room, allowing the walls to "breathe";
• serve as additional sound insulation, save heat;
• serve for a long time;
• protect walls from external factors.

• quite an expensive "pleasure";
• the base must be carefully prepared;
• long breaks during application lead to the appearance of visual "joints";
• finishing quality depends on compliance with the technology at all stages of the coating creation process (compare with plastic panels, paper wallpaper, the quality of which depends only on the installation or gluing process).

It’s important to consider the advantages of each decorative plaster and liquid wallpaper carefully before choosing one for your walls. Decorative plaster is the perfect option for individuals looking for a more artistic and long-lasting solution because it provides a textured, long-lasting finish that gives character and depth to any space. However, liquid wallpaper offers a softer, more flexible alternative that is simpler to apply and can be easily updated or fixed. In the end, the decision is based on your taste in design, your financial situation, and the particular requirements of the area you’re working with.

What is the difference between liquid wallpaper and decorative plaster

All of the shared benefits "vote" for both materials simultaneously, leaving open the question of which is superior in a given situation: decorative plaster or liquid wallpaper. As a result, we weigh the advantages and disadvantages regarding their distinctions.

Variations in composition impact parameters like:

• price;
• availability of components;
• conditions of mixing, application, hardening;
• properties of the final product;
• place of application according to its conditions (interiors only, outdoor or universal use, attitude to dampness).

Variations in the methods of application and preparation are evident in:

1. labor intensity of the process;
2. speed of creating a finish;
3. the need to master the technique of work, experience and skill.

Variations in performance attributes impact:

• the possibility and level of complexity of cleaning;
• the ability to preserve the original appearance (color, surface condition);
• repairability;
• safety;
• durability.

Which will be more important to choose between, liquid wallpaper or decorative plaster? In the same other conditions, let’s compare the two materials according to their individual positions.

Liquid wallpaper

Due to its "novelty," this material is no longer unavailable. Manufacturers offer a wide variety of dry mixtures with varying degrees of decorativeness and color. You can also purchase ornamental accents like glitter, metal shavings, and mother of pearl.

• Preparation of the dough is reduced to a very simple procedure – kneading (by hand!) and ripening (in sealed packaging!). No mixer required, but overall cooking time is longer. True, waiting for maturation will not require you to be constantly present during the test, and therefore you can do other things during this time.
• Mixing and applying to the wall does not require as many tools as when plastering.
• No experience or knowledge of numerous plastering techniques required. Even children learn quickly.
• The mass weighs less than plaster mortar. Work is less tiring.
• The entire finishing process (from scratch to key) takes less time.
• The finished dough can be stored for up to 4-5 days in the room.
• Dried residues can be used at any time (from plaster compositions only clay ones are used in this way).
• The finish dries quickly and gains strength. Maximum term – 3 days.
• Does not need additional painting and varnishing.
• Personal protective equipment is almost not required. The composition does not irritate the skin, is easily washed off.
• Due to its light weight, it is suitable for gluing to weak bases.
• The shelf life of the dry mixture is longer (several years).
• They retain heat better.
• Create a special soft comfortable atmosphere.

• applicable only indoors;
• are afraid of getting wet, therefore the scope of application is narrowed (among plasters there are also "dry lovers" – gypsum compositions);
• compared to decorative plaster in terms of variety, the breadth of the area of ​​​​the obtained effects, liquid wallpaper is still inferior;
• less resistant to abrasion, more loved by "paws-scratches";

Decorative plaster

The plaster exhibits more "capricious" behavior and has a more complex composition, but:

• After the solution hardens, a highly durable coating is obtained.
• You can mix the solution mechanically (with a mixer, in a mortar mixer). The process is accelerated.
• It is possible to achieve effects that cannot be created with the help of ZO.
• Many compositions with different qualities have been developed, among which it is easier to choose the right one for each of the rooms.

• violation of the proportions of the composition greatly affects the strength properties of the finished coating;
• a certain order of mixing must be followed;
• preparation of the solution is a dusty and "dirty" job;
• at least minimal experience is required to perform the work. Some types of techniques are only possible for professionals;
• applied solutions are sensitive to drafts, humidity and other curing conditions;
• mineral plasters are sensitive to precipitation and vibration;
• most solutions are not safe for the skin.

Comparison of technical and operational characteristics

These criteria should be used to determine which is better: liquid wallpaper or decorative plaster.

Decorative plaster

Plaster coatings’ exceptional strength contributes to wall protection and finish integrity maintenance. It’s simpler to use plaster. enables washing with soap and water for cleaning. It is simpler to remove stains. Gypsum is unique among the masses that can be used to create extremely thin reliefs. It becomes stronger almost instantly and hardens rapidly. Cement-based solutions can be applied to a variety of issues, such as shielding the base from moisture and water infiltration. Showers and restrooms are common places to find cement mortars. Moroccan plaster is one of the many intriguing compositions you can use for areas that come into contact with water.

Liquid wallpaper

Less resilient to wear and more vulnerable to impacts from machines. Still, they are more repairable and provide superior wall insulation.

What will last longer

In terms of service life, there is also a distinction. Wallpaper does not last as long as a plaster finish applied correctly. Thus, wallpaper composition is made to last for ten years. Plaster finishes, however, can "show off" on walls for over 20 years.

What is easier to apply

The actual application of liquid wallpaper dough is a simple procedure. The tool is moved in multiple directions as the mass is applied to the prepared wall and leveled. Silk plaster does not require laborious tasks like grouting, ironing, grinding, etc.

Putting in ornamental plaster

What is easier to repair

Liquid wallpaper repair differs from painted or varnished wallpaper repair in that it is easier to use, lighter, and produces less waste. Water is used to saturate the wallpaper coating, and then the mass can be easily removed with a spatula. Reusing the removed mass is possible. The area surrounding the area that needs to be repaired is moistened before the "patch" is applied. The line separating the new dough from the old dough will become softer as a result. The empty space is covered with a "patch," the top of which is measured against the surrounding mass.

It is not that simple to remove the old plaster coating. Certain compositions will need to be removed, like silicone. You will need to redo every step required for plastering in order after removal. It will take more than one day to fix local issues. Certain ornamental plasters are irreparable. For such, even experts recommend total removal.

What is cheaper liquid wallpaper or decorative plaster

When comparing the prices of the two finishes, liquid wallpaper is typically less expensive. Work involving decorative plastering takes a lot of time and labor, and the artisans are paid a lot for their services. There are situations when you need to redo the coating entirely due to unclean hired labor. This is far more costly because you will need to replace all the materials in addition to having the defective finish removed.

Applying for wallpaper mass is simple and does not require a lot of education. It is simple to remove and reapply the applied mass.

Criteria	Decorative Plaster	Liquid Wallpaper
Durability	Highly durable, can last for years without significant wear.	Less durable, may require more frequent touch-ups.
Application	Requires professional skills for an even finish.	Easier to apply, suitable for DIY projects.
Texture and Design	Offers a wide range of textures and patterns.	Limited textures, but can create a soft, fabric-like finish.
Cost	Generally more expensive due to material and labor costs.	More affordable, especially for DIY enthusiasts.
Maintenance	Low maintenance, easy to clean.	Requires careful cleaning, sensitive to moisture.
Environmental Impact	Can include natural materials but often contains chemicals.	Typically eco-friendly, made from natural fibers.

Depending on your needs and tastes, you can decorate your walls with either decorative plaster or liquid wallpaper. Each option has special advantages that can improve the appearance and feel of your house. While liquid wallpaper offers a smooth, easy-to-apply, and easily updated appearance, decorative plaster offers a robust, elegant finish with a range of textures.

Decorative plaster might be a better option if you want to achieve a more classic, elegant look. It makes more refined finishes and elaborate designs possible. However, liquid wallpaper might be a better option if you’d rather something that’s simpler to work with and can alter over time. It comes in a variety of hues and patterns and is adaptable and forgiving.

The choice ultimately boils down to your personal preferences, your financial situation, and the particular needs of the space you’re decorating. Although they each have unique advantages, both materials have the ability to completely change your walls. Before making your decision, think about what matters most to you in terms of overall style, upkeep, and aesthetics.

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