• Fri, 28 Jan 2022
• Maya Construction 1 Inc.

What Is Plaster Made of? Everything You Need to Know About This Building Material

If you are planning to get into a new construction or remodeling project and don’t know what is plaster made of? Plaster is one of the best building materials and protective coating due to its powerful characteristics make it strong and resistant to external factors.

Most people tend to confuse plaster with other materials, so here are some of the critical factors, facts, pros, and cons that make plaster the best option for you. Keep reading below.

What Is Plaster Made of?

As mentioned, plaster is a common material in the construction industry. If you asked yourself, what is plaster made of? Plaster is a mixture of different elements such as lime, sand, clay,  gypsum, cement, and water that together create a hard past that coats ceilings, walls, and various surfaces.

Plasters are one of the oldest (19th century) construction materials that function as a protective agent and a decorative coating that seals together with the building materials.

Nonetheless,  it is a construction material; this one is not toxic. Considered a non-toxic agent because it contains Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate.

Besides, its contexture can be similar to the dust. This might cause some irritation on the eyes, skin,  throat, nose, or respiratory issues due to the inappropriate use without any protective equipment.

Plaster is pollution-free; it produces less dust on its surface, even when exposed for long periods.

Plastering surfaces is a common step to protect any interior or exterior surface. Besides, this material helps to create more durable areas resistant to humidity, mold, and mildew. One significant aspect of this material is that it is one of the used ancient elements in different architectural constructions. As a result, you will have that smooth surface.

People tend to confuse plaster with stucco, but they are different. Also, it is essential to mention that different types of plaster exist, created for different kinds of structures and with other characteristics.

Plaster Facts, Pros & Cons

Pros

Plaster is one of the most long-lasting products in the construction industry; actually, there is no specific time because longs indefinitely (with some maintenance). Besides, applying more than two layers is essential to achieve the duration. Lately, it has been better than drywall.

One of the pros of, is that it can prevent water filtration over the walls because it covers the brick masonry. The paste is so protective that even insects cannot enter the surface. You can paint over the plaster without any problem.

The exceptional advantage that this material has is that it’s fire-resistant. It is usually used in the ceiling to prevent fire spread.

-Remember, the plaster will just give you enough time to evacuate the building and prevent the spread of fire. It is not to stay on the building and try to extinct the fire-

Another great advantage of using it is the sound insulation. If you are trying to create a quiet room, you should opt for this material because it has excellent properties of not letting the exterior sound enter the room.

A splendid benefit is the plaster walls; they remark a solid design concept by the hand of a very good-looking.

Infinity designs are also an advantage that plaster provides you. Some of them are the following: cornices, architectural columns, decorative ceilings, etc. This material will be that friend where you can free your imagination with your designs, and they will come true.

Cons

Sadly, the plaster tends to crack after a long time, but you can fix it. The problem remains, if you let the crack grow, it can damage the entire wall. Repairing a big crack could be expensive. Also, as mentioned before, you can paint over it, but you will need many layers because plaster is porous.

As mentioned before, repairing a crack in plaster can be very expensive, so if you use it, be sure to know in which space you will install it.

Another recommendation, when using it, is to use it for interior walls and ceilings; you can use stucco for exteriors because it is more resistant to seasonal changes. When thinking about stucco vs. plaster, both work well on wall surfaces.

Facts

Another significant fact about it is that it is environmentally friendly. Suppose you want to get a safe and natural material. Plaster is often used for molding structures and architectural parts on some buildings due to its power to be developed into different positions.

“Is plaster strong?” this is one of the most frequent questions people ask. The walls become more robust due to the chemical reaction when water escapes the mixture. It is more resistant to knocks and dents in most cases.

This material is required for; retail spaces, where they can have that unique and very luxury architectonic design. Also, it is very demanded to use it in public buildings and institutions with long service life.

In conclusion, plaster is a very efficient holding material, though it is easier than any other technique. Remember that the main properties of plaster are durability, workability, thickness, and setting time.

Do You Need Help?

Now that you know what plaster is made of and its facts, pros, and cons, it is time to decide. If you want to get a solid and durable wall, plaster is one of the best products.

-Remember to use it wisely and know the spaces you are going to install it.-

Need a very luxurious space with a great image, but don’t want to spend too much? Call us, and we will make your ideas come to life!

If you need a masonry contractor in Orange County, NY, we can help you out. Also, we cover Putnam, Westchester, and Dutchess County.

We will be more than happy to help and assist you. Do not hesitate and Contact Us!