Plastering is a time-tested technique used in both residential and commercial construction. It is composed mainly of gypsum and lime and creates a durable, smooth surface.
Whether used for interior or exterior walls, plaster offers a range of advantages over other materials, making it a popular choice for many homeowners. Below, we discuss the key benefits of plastering walls.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Plastering walls offers numerous benefits, including durability, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency. Plaster is stronger than drywall, provides better soundproofing, and can be moulded into decorative designs.
Plaster is also resistant to mould and mildew, making it a practical choice for humid environments.
While it may have a higher initial cost, its long-term value, low maintenance, and enhanced insulation make it a cost-effective solution for both traditional and modern homes.
Plaster is versatile, easy to install, and adds a refined finish to any space.
Advantages Of Plastering Walls
1. Durability Of Plaster
One of the primary benefits of plaster is its durability. Plaster creates a hard, long-lasting surface that resists impacts better than drywall.
The chemical process involved in plastering strengthens the material as it dries, allowing it to withstand knocks, dents, and general wear over time. Its durability makes it a preferred choice for homes looking for a long-term solution to wall finishes.
In many cases, plastered walls remain intact for decades without the need for significant repairs. This long lifespan reduces maintenance costs compared to other wall finishes, making plaster a smart investment for homeowners.
2. Plaster Is Decorative And Practical
Plaster isn’t just about functionality—it’s also highly decorative. Unlike plain drywall, plaster allows for intricate moulding and detailed finishes, offering homeowners the flexibility to create unique designs that fit their style.
Plaster mouldings appeal to any room, aiming for a traditional or modern look. Homeowners can experiment with colours, textures, and patterns, transforming their space into a visually pleasing environment.
This customisability makes plaster a preferred choice for those looking to enhance the visual appeal of their home.
3. Aesthetic Appeal Of Plaster Walls
Plastering a wall can significantly improve the overall look of a room. Homeowners often mistakenly think that plaster lacks aesthetic value, but with today’s wide range of options, plaster can complement any home decor.
By choosing the right type of plaster, homeowners can achieve a stylish, polished finish that enhances the overall appearance of their space.
4. Plaster Offers Unique Artistry
Plaster provides a level of creativity that other materials do not. Unlike drywall, which provides a flat surface, plaster can be shaped into intricate designs. Skilled plasterers can mould the material into arches, cornices, and decorative details that reflect the homeowner’s taste.
Plaster is especially valued in historical restorations, like Victorian mansions. Its flexibility allows for detailed ornamental work, and its ability to adapt to irregular shapes makes it ideal for small or awkward spaces.
5. Efficient Installation Process
Another benefit of plaster is the efficiency of its installation process. While drywall installation can create a lot of dust and require significant clean-up, plastering is a cleaner method.
Wet plaster is applied directly over a “blue board,” drying without extensive sanding or dusting. This streamlined process saves time and effort compared to installing drywall.
Once applied, the plaster dries to a firm surface and is ready for painting or finishing touches. While DIY plastering can be challenging, hiring a professional ensures the job is done efficiently and effectively, with minimal disruption.
6. Versatility Of Plaster
Plaster is highly versatile and can be used in various construction and renovation projects. It works well with different materials, including stone, brick, timber, and frame constructions.
Whether used for walls or ceilings, plaster can be shaped, incised, cast, stamped, dyed, and stencilled, allowing endless design possibilities. Plaster ceilings, for example, often feature decorative cornices, adding elegance and character to a room.
These mouldings are placed between ceiling panels or transition points, creating a cohesive and visually appealing design.
7. Plaster Simplifies The Installation Process
Plastering is efficient and creates less mess than other installation methods. Dust is typically limited to the initial mixing of the plaster powder, and no further sanding is required once the plaster has been applied.
This makes the process less labour-intensive and cleaner than working with other wall materials, such as drywall. Plastering speeds up the installation process by eliminating the need for sanding.
While plastering may be more difficult to master for a DIY project, professional plasterers can quickly and effectively complete the task with minimal disruption to the home.
8. Plaster’s Strength And Energy Efficiency
Another reason plaster is often chosen over drywall is its strength. Plaster walls are much thicker and more durable than their drywall counterparts.
This added thickness provides better insulation, contributing to lower energy bills. In Australia’s climate, where temperature control is important, plaster helps create a more energy-efficient home.
Plaster walls typically measure 7/8 inches thick and offer better thermal insulation than drywall, which is usually much thinner. This increased thickness keeps homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer, resulting in long-term energy savings.
9. Soundproofing Properties
Plaster also outperforms drywall in soundproofing. Its density and thickness help reduce noise transmission between rooms, making plaster walls an excellent choice for sound insulation.
Plaster’s soundproofing properties make it a highly desirable material for homeowners, whether it’s reducing external noise or creating a quiet home environment.
Soundproofing can be further enhanced by adding specific insulation to plaster walls, making them ideal for spaces that require privacy or noise reduction.
10. Plaster’s Cost And Long-Term Value
While plaster may have a higher initial cost than drywall, its long-term value makes it a cost-effective choice. Its durability means fewer repairs over time, and its energy efficiency helps reduce utility bills.
Additionally, plastered walls’ aesthetic value can increase a home’s resale value, making them a worthwhile investment.
Plaster is widely available and comes in various options, allowing homeowners to choose a solution that fits their budget and style.
Despite the initial expense, plastering is often more economical in the long run due to its longevity and low maintenance needs.
11. Mould And Mildew Resistance
Plaster walls are naturally resistant to mould and mildew, an important feature in humid environments.
Plaster does not contain organic materials that support mould growth, making it an ideal choice for areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
While mould and mildew may affect the paint or dirt on the wall’s surface, the plaster remains intact.
Plaster walls can remain free from mould and mildew with proper ventilation and moisture control, ensuring a healthier living environment.
12.No Project Is Too Small For Plaster
One common misconception is that plastering is only suitable for large projects. Plaster can be applied to even the smallest areas, making it an excellent choice for minor renovations or remodelling jobs.
No matter the scale of the project, a skilled plasterer can create a smooth, professional finish that elevates the space.
Conclusion
Plastering offers several advantages over other wall finishes, including superior durability, aesthetic flexibility, and energy efficiency.
Although plaster may have a higher initial cost, its long-term benefits, such as reduced maintenance, soundproofing, and mould resistance, make it a wise investment for homeowners.
Plaster is a valuable and versatile material for interior and exterior walls, whether used in traditional homes or modern designs.
FAQs About Plastering
Is Plastering Walls A Cost-Effective Option Compared To Other Wall Coverings?
While initial costs may vary, plastering walls can be a cost-effective long-term investment due to their durability and minimal maintenance requirements, resulting in lower lifecycle costs.
How Does Plastering Contribute To A Smoother, More Uniform Wall Surface?
Plastering walls allow smooth and uniform surfaces that conceal imperfections and irregularities in the underlying substrate, resulting in a visually appealing finish.
Can Plastering Walls Help Increase Property Value?
Yes, plastering walls can enhance interior spaces’ aesthetic appeal and perceived quality, potentially increasing property value and attractiveness to prospective buyers or tenants.
Do Plastering Walls Offer Environmental Benefits?
Yes, plastering walls with eco-friendly plaster materials reduces the environmental impact compared to synthetic wall coverings, as plaster is a natural and recyclable material requiring less energy.
How Does Plastering Contribute To Historic Preservation And Restoration Projects?
Plastering walls using traditional techniques and materials helps preserve historical authenticity and integrity, ensuring that historical buildings retain their architectural character and cultural significance for future generations to appreciate.
