What is plaster, why is it needed and what types are there? These questions are of interest to every person who has decided to do not just ordinary repairs, but good, professionally performed repairs!

After the walls, partitions and roof have been erected, it’s time to start finishing work. The classic option for finishing walls is to cover them with plaster.

Despite the emergence of many new materials, plastering the ceiling and walls remains the most popular way of interior decoration. Its indisputable advantage is considered minimum thickness and durability of the coating, which is often important criterion in the requirements for the finishing method.

A building with high-quality plaster and paint always looks fresh and modern, and its varied textures allow you to recreate any style in the room.

What types of plaster are there? Let's try to figure it out in this article.

This type of work includes finishing the walls using ready-made plasterboard sheets - “dry” plaster, applying mixtures to the walls - “wet” or monolithic plaster.

Classification

Dry

Factory-made plasterboard sheets are used exclusively for cladding indoor walls. Dimensions and performance characteristics materials allow you to carry out work in a short time while obtaining a high-quality final result.

For installation, a galvanized profile is used, which is leveled and fixed to the walls using special brackets.

When placing the profile, take into account the dimensions of the sheets. The drywall is attached to the profile using self-tapping screws. The joints and fastenings are leveled using putty and then cleaned. For final leveling, abrasive meshes of different grain sizes are used.

Advantages:

• Speed ​​of work completion. The efficiency with which the result is achieved is associated with ease of installation and the absence of “wet” processes.
• Tolerance to the qualifications of the performer. The relative ease of installation and the quality of modern materials make it possible to avoid the cost of highly paid specialists.
• Possibility of constructing partitions and multi-level surfaces. The design of profiles and fastenings of plasterboard sheets provides for the installation of internal partitions without walls.

Flaws:

• Exposure to weather conditions.
• In some cases, insufficient strength.

Monolithic

Application work plaster mortar on walls for the purpose of leveling or imparting a certain color or texture is called monolithic plaster. The result of such work is a layer resistant to mechanical and atmospheric influences.

Main advantages:

• versatility
• durability
• minimum occupied space

Flaws:

• weighting of the structure
• extended time due to the need to dry each layer
• price

Varieties of wet plaster include ordinary plaster and decorative plaster.

Ordinary plaster is a smooth leveling layer. The main purpose is to prepare walls for further painting or wallpapering.

To give the walls a look that matches the overall design of the building, use a special type of monolithic decorative plaster.

The main types of decorative plaster are divided by composition plaster mixture and the appearance of the resulting facing coating.

The main element of the mixture is the binder.

1. Lime-based - a traditional time-tested material. The solution is prepared by mixing lime milk and coarse river sand. Ready-made dry mixtures on the market also contain synthetic fibers used for reinforcement.
2. On acrylic base are characterized by exceptional adhesion and elasticity, resistant to atmospheric influences. Compositions in this category are indispensable when applied to old paintwork.
3. On polymer cement based- These are non-flammable “breathing” plasters, modified by the addition of polymers that increase the mechanical properties of the plaster layer.
4. Based on silicone resins, they have increased resistance to mechanical and aggressive atmospheric influences and are not subject to rotting.

Colored decorative

The photo shows colored decorative plaster

Colored plasters contain an acrylic-based binder, quartz sand and dye. In most cases, they are presented in the form of ready-to-use plastic mixtures.

A smooth colored mixture is used when decorating door and window openings, internal surfaces of walls and ceilings with your own hands.

For building facades colored plaster used in combination with various technologies, giving a variety of effects. The most common and favorite were “bark beetle” and “pebble”.

Stone

Creating a stone “decoration” begins with marking stone rows on a prepared wall.

Using a marking cord, the location of the seams is indicated. The next step is to apply the selected type of plaster coating.

After the mixture has set, it is cut into stones. Having fixed the rule according to the marks, using a cycle, another plastic solution is removed to a depth of no more than a third of the layer thickness.

When preparing the solution, granite or marble chips are chosen as the main filler. The stone mixture is used to finish the structural elements of buildings - foundations, corners and columns.

Terrasite

Terrasite plaster mixture is used when cladding facades to imitate rock materials.

Taking into account its density and weight, the surface is prepared by applying relief. On a fresh preparatory layer, a wavy grid of shallow furrows is made. The lines are made using any suitable tool and placed horizontally in increments of 3-5 cm.

On concrete surfaces the relief pattern is created with a hammer and chisel, and a notch is made for better adhesion of the plaster layer to the base.

Cement, slaked lime and mica are used to prepare the solution. Add quartz sand and stone chips as filler.

Application is carried out on a pre-moistened wall. The work is carried out in two stages. The spray is applied first, after 15-20 minutes they begin to apply the main decorative layer. The next step is to process the terrazite plaster by scraping. The result is a smooth, sparkling surface.

The effect of crushed stone is obtained by driving special tools into the set covering: scarpel, dowel, chisel. The process is completed by sandblasting the coating.

Sgraffito is a type of plaster in which a relief coating with a pattern or pattern is obtained.

The manufacturing technology of such a decorative coating consists of applying several multi-colored layers and then removing their parts to obtain an ornament.

Each layer is applied followed by leveling and compacting with a trowel. The number of layers may vary. To impart improved strength characteristics, 5-6 layers are used.

Next, a drawing is applied to the plastered wall. This is done using a stencil and pigment powder or chalk poured into a gauze swab. After placing the picture, they begin to sample the solution. First, along the contour, then in the right places of the drawing, layer by layer is removed with a cutter or scraper.

Thus, sgraffito is a counter-relief, the skillful use of which guarantees an excellent addition to the design.

Venetian or liquid marble

Venetian plaster or liquid marble (price - from 1500 rubles per 25 kg)

Venetian plaster is a material that uses marble flour and an acrylic or lime-based binder.

The secret of production is to apply many thin layers with a unique texture.

This texture of the plaster gives extraordinary visual depth and glow when light is reflected at different depths of the coating.

The multi-layer process, which includes ironing and polishing technology for each layer, requires high qualifications and expensive materials. The result of labor-intensive work will be a 5-mm cladding layer with a mother-of-pearl effect, superior in environmental friendliness and aesthetics to any decorative coating.

How to choose plaster

It is logical to assume that with all the variety of methods and materials for plastering works, the consumer has a question - which plaster is better?

There can be no clear answer. This is explained by the fact that choosing the “right” plaster can only be determined by knowing the specific operating conditions and the method of carrying out the work.

The cost factor plays an important role in the choice. The latest fashion trends have brought with them latest materials, sometimes several times more expensive than their analogues, which are quite complete in every sense.

When creating an interior design, the issue of harmonious combination of styles and materials remains relevant. Agree, the “cool Venetian” that creates palace chic will not always be appropriate in a residential apartment. And, conversely, spacious halls and living rooms can look much more attractive when suitable finish walls

The answer to the question of which plaster to choose depends on the interior of the room and the effect you want to achieve.

Plastering technology

Compliance with the rules when preparing the surface and applying plaster is the key to durability and preservation of the appearance of the coating.

Instructions:

Necessary conditions for best adhesion are thorough cleaning of the wall from construction dust and dirt, as well as hydration. In cases where it is necessary to remove soot from the walls, use a 3% solution of hydrochloric acid.

For plastering wooden walls lime-gypsum mixtures are used. They are applied to reinforced shingles.

When finishing concrete panels, a preparatory layer of cement laitance is applied first. Such a liquid solution will give the surface the roughness necessary for better bonding of the base with the plaster layer.

Any plaster coating consists of several layers. The first layer serves as a leveling layer and is called a spray. The second layer is the primer, the last is the finishing coat. For ordinary plaster this is limited.

In decorative plaster there can be several finishing layers (up to 8); they are called covering. The total thickness of the layers should not exceed 20 mm. When correcting irregularities exceeding this number, cement mortars with a reinforcing mesh are used.

It should be noted that regardless of the type of plaster, the work must be performed in one step over the entire surface of the wall. Otherwise, coating defects may occur due to minor changes in color and texture.

The work is carried out from top to bottom using previously placed beacons. To apply the next layer, you must ensure that the previous one has hardened.

It is important to prevent cracks from appearing. This occurs when the layer dries quickly in conditions of high air temperature or when exposed to direct sunlight. In the hot season, they resort to periodically moistening the treated wall.

To apply the mixture to the slopes, use a trowel or spatula. Leveling is carried out using a small tool according to established rules. To work with large, flat walls, use a plaster ladle and a long trowel.

Bottom line

The types of plaster are so diverse that you can carry out repairs of any complexity and bring any idea to life! All we can do is wish you good luck and offer a video in this article.

Photo gallery

Due to the abundance of finishing materials on the market, it is very difficult to make a final choice. In some cases, the help of a specialist may be a vital necessity. Despite this, there is a separate category of materials that does not require unnecessary introduction. This is due to the product’s resistance to negative atmospheric influences and various mechanical damage. These materials include decorative plaster.

Advantages of decorative plaster

Having an attractive appearance and sufficient service life, decorative plaster is very popular. This material is presented in the form of a paste-like substance with inclusions that can give it strength and increase volume.

Decorative plaster quite successfully imitates various materials, among which are stone, wallpaper or some other covering. By using it you can create various visual effects and apply unusual designs, which ultimately allows you to solve design problems of any level of complexity.

These finishing materials can be coating or structural. In the first case, we are talking about using plaster for the purpose of further cladding. Structural plaster itself is finishing coat. By using it, the wall is given a finished look.

A huge advantage of decorative plaster is the fact that this material helps protect walls from mechanical damage and negative environmental influences, thereby increasing the maximum possible service life of the entire building.

Classification of different types

Decorative plaster is a very broad concept that combines many finishing materials. The most popular among them:

• stone chips;
• flock coating;
• Venetian plaster;
• structural plaster.

If we talk about the classification of this material according to the type of surface that is ultimately obtained, then there are the following types of plaster: flock, structural plaster, liquid wallpaper, Venetian plaster.

Flock coating. Presented in the form of colored crumbs, which are subsequently mixed with adhesive composition and applied to the wall surface. One of the main advantages of the material is a very wide range of colors.

Venetian plaster. Can easily imitate marble coating. Marble flour is used as the basis for production here.

To be extremely precise, this material is a paint made from artificial latexes, which has a kind of astringent base. Due to the specific consistency of this material, it can be used to create the effect of antiquity.

Structural plaster. It looks like a granular mass with granules. In addition, structural plaster contains wood fiber and small pebbles. The basis for this material can be a mineral, silicate or latex binder.

Regarding the classification of material by type decorative effect, then in this context we can talk about textured and decorative plaster. In the first case, we can talk about applying a pattern by creating a relief on the surface. Decorative plaster uses a play of shades.

Material composition

One of the main components of decorative plaster is a binder, which can be mineral, polymer, silicate or silicone.

Mineral plaster

This plaster contains lime. It is mixed with stone chips and colored clay. This product also contains small particles of minerals. The main advantage of mineral plaster is that over time the strength of the material will tend to increase.

In addition, this product is UV resistant and vapor permeable, so it can be used for exterior decoration.

Polymer plaster

Here we can talk about the presence of acrylic resins in the material, as a result of which its resistance to temperature changes and increased moisture significantly increases. Polymer plaster is applied to any surface and can easily imitate marble or leather.

Important! Due to low vapor permeability, the decision to use polymer plaster for finishing buildings from the outside is not advisable.

Silicate plaster

This material is characterized by high plasticity, resistance to contamination and good vapor permeability. Along with all the mentioned advantages, the color range of silicate plaster is significantly limited.

Silicone plaster

The basis of silicone plaster is silicone resins. This finishing material has many advantages, including resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations, a wide palette of colors, and high vapor permeability. If we talk about the shortcomings, they are limited to high price indicators.

Features of applying decorative plaster

The technology for carrying out the work is quite simple. The essence of one of the most important stages of the entire process is high-quality surface preparation. Depending on the methods of applying the material to the wall, you can achieve different design effects.

Photo: applying decorative plaster

Important! For exterior finishing, a rough lime-based structural material should be used. Such plaster can withstand prolonged exposure to moisture without consequences.

If we talk about the sequence of work, it is best to resolve this issue in this way:

1. Preparatory work.
2. Surface priming.
3. Applying the base layer.
4. Applying the finishing layer.
5. The final stage.

Photo: adding texture with a hard brush

The surface must be primed with a special composition recommended by the plaster manufacturers. It is important to ensure that there are no marks during application.

The main task of renovating a house is to create a comfortable, cozy and exclusive home. Thanks to modern materials, this can be done without the help of professionals. One of the best options is decorative plaster.

Application area:

• for exterior finishing (facade mixtures);
• For interior decoration;
• universal mixtures. Suitable for finishing residential and non-residential premises outside and inside.

Classification of decorative plasters by composition

• mineral. This is a dry mixture created on the basis of cement, which is diluted with water and used for exterior finishing. Among other types of decorative plasters, mineral mixtures are distinguished by their ease of application and ability to solve the problem of additional insulation of the building facade. To give water-repellent properties Polymer additives are introduced into the mixture. However, the service life of such material is short - 9-10 years, after which it becomes necessary to carry out work to update and restore the coating.

• acrylic. High elasticity of the material is achieved through the use of acrylic resins. The service life of such coating is 15-20 years. However, if basalt wool is used as insulation for the walls of the house, acrylic plaster is not recommended. Maximum manifestation of the properties of the mixture is possible when combined with a foam insulating layer.

• silicate. To date this is the most best option finishing, having high level strength, and rock service for about 20 years. The binding component is liquid potassium glass. This type of plaster has a grooved or evenly rough structure. Experts recommend applying silicate mixtures to surfaces containing lime.

• silicone. The main component of such mixtures is an aqueous dispersion of silicone resin. Considering the fact that in the production of silicone I use oil, silicon, and table salt, compositions based on them have all the advantages of mineral and polymer plasters and are among the best in the list of modern finishing materials. They are characterized by exceptionally high strength, water, dirt and dust repellent properties. The service life of the silicone mixture can reach 25 years, while the material does not absorb or accumulate harmful substances.

Decorative plasters also differ in the type of mineral filler, which creates the necessary surface relief. The filler can be quartz, granite or marble chips and mixtures based on them. The granules can range in size from 0.5 mm to 5 mm. Also plaster compositions They differ in the method of application, which determines whether the surface will be smooth or textured, matte or glossy. Which plaster is better is up to you to decide.

All compositions have a sufficient degree of vapor permeability - the ability to pass moisture and air in both directions. Acrylic compounds have the lowest vapor permeability, but at the same time they are the most weather-resistant materials. The highest rates are for silicone and silicate mixtures.

Types of decorative plasters

• textured (structural). Today this is the most common type of finishing materials, which is sold in the form ready mixture or powder (diluted with water). The mixture is based on astringents; the fillers are flax or cotton fibers, crumbs of natural or artificial materials etc. Textured mixtures allow you to imitate masonry and wild stone, bas-relief with a textured or three-dimensional pattern, and tree bark. The most extensive group of materials are relief coatings applied using different techniques and materials (pastes, varnishes, paper, etc.). Such plaster not only gives the surfaces a special attractiveness, but also perfectly hides unevenness and other defects in the walls.

• smooth. With its help you can achieve the effect of silk drapery, light sea ​​foam, ripples on the water, “pearl” shell, etc. This texture is achieved through the use of varnishes and paints, and the play of light. Smooth plasters also include artistic painting and traditional plain wall decoration.
• Venetian. With its help, you can apply a coating that will successfully imitate marble and other stone textures. The composition is applied to the wall in spots in several layers. In this case, the surface acquires a shimmering, luminous surface. To enhance this effect, add to the finishing layer beeswax. Venetian plaster looks unsurpassed in interiors made in classic style.

• stone chips. The mixture contains small pebbles, as well as adhesive and binding materials. Stone chips can be of different colors and shades. Apply the composition in an even layer using a spatula. The most common types of stone chips are marble, granite and quartz. They have excellent appearance and are able to withstand bad weather. Experts recommend using decorative plasters in the decoration of offices in large areas, but in cottages and houses it is better to decorate with them small areas or used to accentuate individual interior elements (arches, ledges, openings, niches, racks, etc.) Moreover, stone chips are most appropriately used in non-residential premises(hallways, bathrooms, hallways, etc.). In exterior decoration, it can be used both to decorate the entire building and to emphasize individual architectural elements.
• flock covering. This is one of the latest achievements of our time. The finishing is applied to the surface in three layers: first a layer of glue, then colored flakes - flocks or chips, and then a varnish coating that performs protective function. If desired, you can mix flocks of different colors.

The undeniable advantages of decorative plasters include:

• Possibility of application to almost any external or internal surface of a building - concrete, brick, wood, metal, etc.
• High resistance to mechanical stress.
• Ability to hide surface defects.
• Highly waterproof and impact resistant aggressive environments– can be washed with any detergents, with the exception of solvent-based formulations;
• Durability.
• Affordable price.

Decorative plaster firmly occupies a leading position in the market of finishing materials, thanks to its strength, reliability, unpretentiousness during operation and the aesthetics of the coating.

Next, we will introduce readers in detail to various types this material, we will give advice on where, when and what mixture is best to use, how to choose the right texture for interior design, we will offer several interesting ways of applying the composition, and we will analyze reviews of decorative plaster.

Types of decorative plasters

Decorative plaster consists of a binder, fillers (grains of stone, sand, etc.), additives that improve properties: adhesive, antiseptic, bactericidal, hydrophobic. Based on the binder, decorative plaster can be classified into:

• Mineral - cement or cement-lime base, suitable for outdoor and interior work, has high vapor-permeable properties, lime compositions are more plastic compared to cement ones.
• Polymer - based on acrylic resin, is not afraid of humidity, temperature deltas, does not fade under the influence of UV rays, is applicable for facades and rooms, thanks to additives you can create complex textures of leather, velvet, etc. Acrylic decorative plaster is not recommended for use for external work in combination with loose insulation.
• Silicate - based on liquid glass, has low elasticity, which allows the solution to be applied to surfaces made of cellular concrete. Moisture-resistant, tolerates mechanical stress well, does not contribute to the formation of fungi and mold, does not accumulate dirt, and does not swell. It is recommended to apply to walls finished with rough plaster with the addition of lime.
• Silicone - consists of silicone resins and fine filler: marble dust or fine sandstone. Suitable for facade and interior work. Durable, has an antistatic effect, does not accumulate dust.

Table of characteristics of decorative plaster

Good to know: For small rooms, for example, in the hallway, it is better to opt for a calm, fine-grained texture, without volumetric relief.

Decorative plaster, photo in the hallway, a combination of different textures helps correct the geometry of the room

According to their decorative properties, artistic plasters can be divided into several large groups:

• Venetian is the most refined of all representatives; it can be used to make coatings like marble, polished stone, silk, velvet, leather, and crinkled fabric. The finely dispersed composition is plastic; thanks to various techniques, a smooth surface and three-dimensional pattern are obtained. Venetian decorative plaster imitating marble, silk, etc. is covered with protective wax or a special varnish, which gives it the shine of a well-polished surface.

Decorative plasters for interior decoration, photo of Venetian coating in Moroccan style

• Textured decorative plaster is made on the basis of synthetic resins combined with fillers: flax fibers, cotton, glitter, metal inclusions, crumbs of natural and artificial materials, which create an interesting pattern. You can create bas-reliefs, drawings, apply textures different instruments- under natural stone, wood. This is the largest group, differing both in composition and in decorative capabilities.

Textured plaster made using a stencil, with an original dry brush coating

• Pebble decorative plaster – binder, filled with stone chips. Usually sold in finished form, the mixture is heterogeneous, inclusions can have several shades. It has a decorative mosaic effect, shagreen to the touch. It is used for finishing plinths and facades of buildings; indoors it is recommended to use it accentuated, in small areas, since the material is cold. The perfect solution for bathrooms and corridors, as well as for office spaces.

Pebble decorative plaster is used for exterior work much more often than for interior work, where it is used fragmentarily to highlight interior elements.

• Decorative structural plaster is a plastic, heterogeneous mass; it can be any base: mineral cement-lime, synthetic latex, filler – grains of stone, shells and sand of different fractions. It is modeled thanks to inclusions; it is enough to apply an even layer and, after drying, walk over it with a trowel.

Photo of decorative plaster for interior work, travertine texture - imitates concrete blocks

• Flock coating is a new word in finishing, it is applied in three stages: the base is glue, then flock particles are glued, which are protected on top with varnish. You can lay out any designs or ornaments with multi-colored chips.

We offer a master class on how to properly apply decorative plaster; the video will help you master some techniques for relief finishing.

Good to know: In bathrooms and swimming pools, it is recommended to use moisture-resistant decorative plaster, which should be additionally coated with protection. For balconies, loggias, bathrooms and corridors, mixtures for external use that are resistant to difficult operating conditions are relevant.

Photo of decorative plaster in the hallway, practical solution in combination with wallpaper, the lower part of the finish is easy to care for and remove dirt

How to make decorative plaster - lessons on applying popular textures

The most popular and easiest way to apply decorative plaster is the bark beetle structure, which is formed due to the granules found in the mixture. Compositions with grains up to 1 mm are used inside the house, from 1 to 3 mm are preferable on the street or in large areas.

Bark beetle relief applied with a solution containing coarse inclusions

A solution is applied to the putty, sanded and primed wall; its thickness should be equal to the size of the inclusions. Level, after 20-30 minutes treat with a smooth trowel. The tool is moved depending on the selected texture: rain - diagonally, oak bark - up/down, travertine - in a circular motion.

Decorative plaster, photo of the bark beetle structure applied using different methods

Another simple option for applying decorative plaster is fur coat. Cement-sand mortar is used for the facades; any mineral plaster is used inside the house. External work is best done by spraying: mechanically, with a spray gun, or manually - through a mesh, spraying with a long-bristled brush. It is recommended to use fine-grained decorative plasters indoors for fur coats. The layer is evenly applied to the wall and after drying, a roller with a fine coat is passed over it; the fibers pull the solution along with them, forming a characteristic pattern.

Finishing a fur coat or lamb - simple, inexpensive, practical

The rock pattern is borrowed from application technology Venetian plaster. Here the solution is applied with a trowel, using sharp, chaotic strokes, first pressing the tool firmly and easing the pressure towards the end. Venetian plaster is applied in 3 or more layers, each sanded and rubbed with a trowel. The rock texture is usually applied with white decorative plaster in 2 layers, the first is the base, and the second is the texture strokes. Sharp edges are smoothed over with a damp brush. Decorated with paints. 2 shades look beautiful, a basic one, and an additional one - by washing or applying patina, this way the depth of the decor is achieved.

Decorative plaster, photo in the corridor, large relief is balanced by a pastel shade

On textured decorative plaster, patterns can be applied using a variety of rollers, a brush with stiff bristles, stencils and stamps. We will talk about the techniques in more detail in the next chapter, using photo examples.

The role of decorative plaster in the interior

Decorative plaster in the interior is a real hit of modern renovations. The variety of compositions and methods of decoration allows you to choose the right texture and color for almost any stylistic decision, from historical classics to industrial styles and high-tech design. Decorative plaster goes well with wood, natural and artificial stone, with brick, modern plastic and 3D panels, wallpaper. A competent combination of several materials allows you to create an exclusive, noble interior that will remain relevant for many years.

Decorative plaster for interior work, photo of fashionable craquelure texture - torn surface

Loft

IN modern interior loft, popular among young people and progressive individuals, decorative concrete-like plaster is in demand; it fits perfectly into the overall ensemble industrial style, adding zest to it. To refine the coating, it is coated with varnish on top.

Decorative plaster, photo of concrete coating, interior in loft style

Cement-sand decorative mixtures can be safely used in bathrooms and swimming pools; it is important to give them the right finish - water-repellent impregnation.

Decorative plaster, photo in the bathroom interior, concrete-like coating, additionally decorated with agglomerate

Classic

Venetian plaster comes from Italy, which can safely be called the progenitor of classical styles. Over the years, it has not lost its popularity. For historical classic design The Venetian technique is appropriate, imitating stone, often marble, glowing from within, emphasizing the nobility and high cost of the decoration.

Decorative plaster in the interior, Venetian texture imitating natural malachite

For the artsy French styles(rococo and baroque) decorative plaster with silk effect is suitable, glossy surface reflects expensive furniture, makes the room visually larger, emphasizing the luxury and pomp of the decor.

Decorating a classic bedroom with Venetian plaster

If moldings are used to separate the walls - imitation frames, then plasters with a drapery effect look very nice inside. For an accent wall, artistic painting done using the Venetian technique is often used.

Decorative plaster with painting

For calmer interiors in a classic style - decorative plaster with the effect of aged walls; it is also very relevant for some Mediterranean trends.

Decorating walls with Venetian plaster

Ethnic styles

For creating ethnic styles decorative plaster is most often used under natural materials. So, to create a Mediterranean style, decorative plaster with an aging effect is suitable. Typically, this is a mineral coating coated with paint using a special technique: the first opaque layer is applied - the base, followed by a thinner layer on top, which is washed away with a damp rag.

Living room in antique style with wall decoration with plaster

The rustic style is characterized by a decorative wood finish. The application technology is quite simple, but requires skills. First apply in large strokes base layer, is leveled with a spatula, and covered with a thin layer of darker liquid plaster on top with a brush. After drying, the texture of the wood is drawn with a special stamp.

Plaster with wood texture for wall decoration

For the African direction, the use of decorative plaster that imitates reptile skin is relevant. The surface is finished with a base layer of a textured mixture, about 3 mm thick, then a relief is made with a rubber roller with a pattern. At the finish it is decorated with paints, pearlescent additives are often used, golden patina, metallic effect.

Decorative plaster imitating leather, decorated with paints and patina

Modern directions

For modern styles decorative plaster – inexhaustible possibilities and boundless horizons of imagination. These include flock and fibrous textures for modern design, and sparkles for romantic design. There are usually two decoration options:

• Using modern mixtures with already added inclusions, all that remains is to apply the solution in any way you like.
• Application of ordinary white decorative plaster followed by decoration with paints to achieve the desired effect.

Good to know: Volumetric textures: waves, large rock, large stone masonry, bark beetle and coarse-grained traventine are recommended for exterior decoration, in large rooms, or for finishing minor areas as accents.

Decorative plaster, photo of Venetian coating in the bedroom

Finishing the façade “mosaic” with a mixture of different colors

For exterior decoration, especially for plinths, sometimes even fragmentarily indoors, decorative plaster to look like stone, brick or rubble is very relevant. To make such a drawing, it is enough to apply a layer using the rock technique, with strokes. You can make a “masonry” pattern using a polyurethane stamp, which is pressed into the surface of a slightly dried mortar. Or draw the grooves manually with a chisel or thin spatula. To make the texture look natural, sharp edges are slightly smoothed with a brush dipped in water.

Decorative plaster to look like brick, this type of finishing can be easily done with your own hands

Interesting textures are obtained if the still-dry layer of decorative plaster is treated with a sea sponge, slightly pressing and slightly turning it in a circular motion. A brush with stiff bristles allows you to paint:

• grooves (vertical and horizontal);
• waves if driven in a zigzag pattern;
• fabric - drawing lines with bristles vertically, then horizontally, and to give naturalness light strokes in both directions alternately.

The craquelure effect is achieved thanks to a special technology. First, a smooth base coat is applied, which will show through the ragged edges. It is coated with a special varnish that will ensure the formation of cracks. A final thin layer is applied to the varnish desired color. The fresh coating is intensively blown by fans, resulting in cracks.

Craquelure, with different degrees of airflow you can achieve a small or large pattern

Rollers, various stencils, stamps - all these are unlimited possibilities in the field of modeling decorative plaster. Don’t be afraid to show your creativity; perhaps you can invent your own exclusive texture. Watch the video on how to properly use rollers for decorative plaster.

Reading forums where craftsmen and simple DIYers speak out, one of the most popular and versatile finishes is decorative plaster. Reviews about the material are most commendable: practical, reliable, beautiful, relevant, and will not lose its aesthetics for a long time.

Decorative plaster is a solution used for finishing walls outside public buildings and private houses, as well as inside apartments, offices and other premises. Its main purpose is to improve the aesthetic and decorative qualities of the surface. In this article we will consider all types of decorative plaster for walls.

The word “plaster” is of Italian origin and is literally translated as “plaster” or “alabaster”. The composition of the plaster mixture for decoration has common components with ordinary plaster- this is sand, lime, cement, but its main difference is the addition of various granules - dry bulk substances in the form of small granules, for example, stone chips, wood fibers, etc.

• Decorative plasters can be sold ready-made, that is, previously diluted with water or a special solvent, such mixtures can be immediately used for work. Dry components can also be supplied, which must be diluted according to the instructions before application.
• Depending on the final result and the design idea, you can independently add various fillers to the decorative plaster: small pieces of mica, shells or small pebbles, which, after the layer of plaster has hardened, will look organic on the wall. In addition, in this way it is possible to achieve the effect of additional surface volume.

Types of decorative plaster for walls

The surface can be decorated in various ways, for example, simple plaster can decorate a wall, giving it a perfectly smooth structure. Of course, thanks to the special composition, it became possible to obtain a relief effect, achieve a glossy surface or imitate any natural materials without much effort.

Decorative plaster is distinguished according to several principles. For example, by type of filler it can be:

• textured;
• structural;
• Venetian

Textured and structural view form a rough surface and are usually called relief plasters, while Venetian plasters form a perfectly smooth surface, so they are classified as a smooth type of plasters.

All listed species are made on the basis of environmentally friendly substances, due to which they are considered safe, reliable and durable materials.

There are several types of plaster based on the binder used.

• Acrylic. The binder is a high molecular weight polymer (acrylic resin), which ensures good elasticity of the applied layer. It may contain organic and inorganic pigments, thanks to which the composition acquires different colors. Acrylic decorative plaster is sold as a ready-made mixture. The disadvantage of this type of coating is low vapor permeability, so the material is limited in use. Plaster is also susceptible to UV rays, and over time the coating may begin to crack. Acrylic resin in the composition allows you to paint the mixture in any desired color using pigment pastes.

• Mineral. The binder is cement. It has a relatively low price and is most often produced in the form of a dry mixture, which must be diluted with water before use. An excellent option for decorative plaster for bathroom walls and for exterior use. In humid weather, add a little less water to the solution. Considered the most environmentally friendly decorative material. Over time, such a coating only becomes stronger, has good resistance to UV rays, but is afraid of mechanical damage, in addition, it is not advisable to wash it with devices using high pressure. The standard color of such plaster is considered to be light.
• Silicone. The binding component is synthetic resins. It is applied for exterior finishing and for interior work, it is flexible and easy to apply. They are resistant to UV rays and do not attract dust and foreign odors. When applied, it forms a moisture-repellent layer, due to which silicone decorative plaster is used for cladding external walls in areas of high humidity. Available in the form of a ready-made mixture in various colors.
• Silicate. Binder - liquid glass(alkaline potassium carbonate, quartz sand and potassium hydroxide). It is distinguished by the high strength of the applied layer, resistance to mold and rot, as well as the ability to repel water. The mixture has impregnating, adhesive and astringent qualities. It can be used on almost any surface and has excellent fire resistance and vapor permeability. Supplied as a ready-mix in various color shades. One of the most reliable plasters, its service life can reach 50 years or more.

Silicate and silicone plasters are most often used for finishing facades and during construction in humid climates.

Textured plaster

• This is a plaster with a coarse, highly viscous structure. The filler is flax fibers, wood, mica, mineral chips (granite, marble) or small pebbles. It is used for decorating brick, concrete, plastered, and also wooden surfaces. Excellent for exterior decoration and interior work.

• Thanks to special particles in the composition, textured plaster hides large defects and most surface irregularities. It requires virtually no preliminary preparation walls, it is enough to dry and clean them; if there are peeling coatings, they should be removed, and then an adhesive composition or a special “concrete contact” solution should be applied, this is necessary for reliable adhesion of the plaster to the wall.
• The applied layer is highly hard, waterproof and forms an air-permeable coating. The resulting surface can be an imitation of natural stone, genuine leather, wood or fabric. Among the types of decorative plaster, textured is the most common; in addition, it has a relatively low price.
• The plaster is supplied for sale in various containers, weighing 9, 18, and 50 kg, dry and ready for use. It can be tinted in any color when applied, or painted after drying. Average consumption up to 2 kg per 1 m2. The larger the filler, the more composition is required to apply one layer. It is not recommended to use plaster for external work during rains or humid weather, and at temperatures up to + 7 degrees.
• You can apply textured plaster without using highly specialized tools, and there is no need to involve professionals; even when decorating the walls yourself, you get many design options.

Subtypes of textured plaster

• Lamb- plaster has various sizes stone grains, applied to mineral bases, the surface is rough and uniformly granular.

• Fur coat- the surface after application is rough, in the form of a slight “hairiness”, the main component of this mixture is cement.

• Bark beetle- composite plaster, with fine stone filler, when applied, forms a grooved texture reminiscent of the surface of corroded wood.

The peculiarity of textured plaster is that the surface relief appears immediately after application.

Structural plaster

• A material with a thin-layer structure, made on an acrylic or silicate base. Marble chips or quartz elements are used as a structure-forming substance. Outwardly it looks like a granular heterogeneous mass. It is used for decorating walls indoors and finishing facades.

• It may be fine-grained and look like an almost even layer when applied, or medium-grained; after such plaster dries, a peculiar relief appears. Has good adhesion to most mineral surfaces, plasterboard and chipboard.
• Structural plaster forms a layer with excellent breathability, resistant to moisture and atmospheric conditions. Available in 9, 18 and 50 kg packages. Supplied as a ready-made mixture, adding coloring pigments to the composition is not allowed. Apply with a trowel to a dry, clean surface that has been pre-treated with primer. deep penetration. The consumption rate when applied in one layer is 3 kg per m2.
• It is not recommended to use in damp rooms or during rain during outdoor work; the air temperature should be above +7 degrees. Plaster can be applied using various methods and tools: a smooth spatula, a roller or a sprayer. So, to obtain the effect of waves, coarse-grained plaster is used, which is applied in a circular motion using a spatula.
• Very often, structural plaster is used for finishing walls in corridors and bathrooms, as well as for finishing facades, fences and gates. For interior work, it is recommended to use water-based, quick-drying and odorless material. The resulting surface is quite impact-resistant and resistant to mechanical damage. Wet cleaning of the plastered wall is allowed.

Venetian plaster

• This phrase appeared as a result of the literal translation of the phrase “stucco veneziano”. It is a decorative multilayer coating. This plaster mixture is made with the addition marble chips and slaked lime. It has a fairly homogeneous structure. It became widespread back in ancient Rome, when when working with marble, a lot of dust and small particles remained, which began to be used as a material for cladding.

• Visually finished layer resembles the surface of natural marble or onyx. The right finish Venetian plaster requires special skill. It should be applied with a flexible rubber spatula, in thin strokes, in several layers (5-6), each of which requires thorough drying. The material is quite expensive, but the resulting effect fully justifies its price. Most often, Venetian plaster is used in rooms decorated in antique or classical style, as well as in the Baroque style.
• Thanks to in various ways Application can achieve a matte or glossy surface. Plaster is intended for indoor use only. The mixture can be tinted. Available in containers of 8 and 16 kg. The surface to be decorated must be clean, level and dry. Before facing the walls, it is recommended to pre-reinforce them, and then putty and prime them. If the technology is violated, cracks may form on the decorative plaster, which are very difficult to get rid of.
• In addition to the stone surface, Venetian plaster can imitate precious metals, due to special coloring with special pigments. Using this type of finishing indoors, you can achieve the effect of increasing space due to the refraction of light. This coating often acts as a basis for complex panels and frescoes.

Specific types of decorative plaster

• Colored plaster - made on the basis of acrylic and marble chips. It has high adhesion to mineral surfaces, water resistance and sufficient hardness. The color range is represented by fifteen shades. Apply to a dry, clean surface in one layer. To prevent noticeable joints, the mixture must be brought to the corner. Equally suitable for both external and internal work.

• Roller plaster- contains filler of natural origin of various fractions from 1 mm to 2.5 mm. When applied, a texture with small channels-indentations is formed. It is used for decorating facades and decorating walls inside office and residential premises. Tinting or surface painting is allowed. It is applied to the surface with a wide spatula and then rubbed with a trowel in circular, cross-shaped, vertical or horizontal movements.

• Latex plastic- allows you to create smooth coating with a slight gloss, imitating the texture of smooth stone or marble, as well as various relief surfaces. The material is resistant to cracking and has high moisture resistance, making the plastered surface easy to clean. The mixture can be tinted in different colors to achieve the effect of structure natural stone, do not mix the colors thoroughly. The mixture is applied only to smooth walls, previously plastered and treated with a deep penetration primer.

• "Wet Silk"- the coating, reminiscent of the surface of a fabric, contains mother-of-pearl particles, the iridescence of which imitates the iridescence of flowing silk. Tinting in any color is allowed; initially several color variations are available: white, gold, garnet, silver and bronze. The resulting surface is highly moisture resistant and tolerates wet cleaning. An excellent option for decorative plaster for kitchen walls.
• "Sea breeze"- the coating has a translucent structure, with a slight pearlescent tint. Fine-grained sand is added to the composition. It can be tinted and is available in several basic colors: gold, white, garnet, bronze and chameleon. Used for interior decoration.

Advantages of decorative plaster

Decorative coating based on plaster has won the love of many designers, thanks to the special properties and qualities that distinguish it from other materials for interior decoration.

• Able to hide unevenness and defects of the surface being decorated;
• can be applied to most known materials (brick, stone, concrete, wood, drywall and many other coatings);
• does not absorb odors;
• has high sound-absorbing properties;
• has a unique and inimitable design;
• application does not require special surface preparation;
• is characterized by high levels of resistance to any atmospheric phenomena;
• The resulting coating has breathable properties;
• forms a moisture- and frost-resistant layer;
• thanks to its special plasticity, it is possible to process structures of any complexity, as well as create all kinds of patterns and designs;
• forms an environmentally friendly, practical and durable coating that is resistant to mechanical stress;

Decorative plaster of walls in the apartment

To obtain a high-quality decorative coating, the solution should be applied using tools that are free from defects, damage, chips, cracks or nicks. Each type of plaster mixture requires its own finishing methods and techniques to give the surface expressiveness and special artistic properties.

Venetian plaster

• Venetian plaster, to develop the required pattern, requires multi-layer application. Work is carried out in various widths painting tools made of stainless steel (trowel, spatula). The main layer is applied with the widest tool, leaving gaps on the surface. The strokes are made wide and asymmetrical. All subsequent layers must cover the gaps of the previous application. To make it more expressive, each layer can have its own color shade.

• The applied layers are dried one by one, each of them is leveled and additionally ground with a smooth steel tool. This method is called ironing, due to which the surface acquires glossy look. If additional shine is required, the plaster can be coated with a special varnish or wax. Due to translucent layers, the effect of depth and volume is achieved.

Relief decorative plaster

• Finishing with relief decorative plaster occurs a little differently. In this case, no special treatment of the walls is required, as for applying smooth plasters. It is enough to remove old finishing materials (painting, wallpaper, whitewash), clean and dry the surface.
• After which the walls are treated with a primer. This procedure is carried out about a day before finishing with relief plaster. It is best if the primer composition has antibacterial properties that prevent the development of fungi and mold.
• The plaster mixture is applied to the primed surface with a wide soft spatula. Immediately after this, it is necessary to give the layer a relief. This should be done very quickly, as the composition sets instantly.

• Get the required pattern on textured plaster, you can use tools such as spatulas, sponges, rollers, smoothers or stencils. For example, when using a rubber roller, you should wet it in water before each application of texture. The work is carried out immediately over the entire area of ​​the wall (from corner to corner), otherwise noticeable seams cannot be avoided.

Structural plaster

• Structural plaster is applied with a stainless steel trowel. The layer should be slightly larger than the grain size. The treated surface is kept for 2-3 minutes, and then smoothed in a circle with a plastic trowel.
• This method ensures uniform distribution of the granules contained in the composition over the treated surface. Excess mixture is regularly removed from the trowel with a small spatula.
• Structural plaster, like textured plaster, forms joints during application, so work is carried out from corner to corner at a time.

Advice: if there is a need to paint relief plaster, then you should do this 10-14 days after application.

Basic coating care

The decorative coating formed by relief or smooth plaster is quite durable and resistant to mechanical damage and atmospheric conditions, so no special care is required in the first year after application.

• This material does not absorb odors and does not attract dust, and also contains water-repellent substances, due to which the surface, if necessary, can be easily washed with ordinary detergents without chemical fillers. When cleaning it is better to use soft cloth or sponge, avoiding hard brushes, metal scrapers, pumice stones or plastic.
• To increase the service life of the plaster coating, special waxes or glazing compounds are applied over the dried decorative layer. Artificial or beeswax helps increase the waterproofing of the surface, and when applied to Venetian plaster, it provides additional shine.
• The wax composition is supplied ready-made. It can be used to emphasize the smallest details and the depth of the relief applied decorating mixtures, while their resistance to mechanical stress increases, additional protection from dust, dirt and moisture. Protective wax is available in two versions: with a mother-of-pearl effect, having a silver-white tint, and in a translucent form, with a yellowish tint.

• This product must be applied in a double layer using a spatula, sponge or brush, and after drying, polished with a soft cloth. Wax surfaces cannot be cleaned with solvents; only a soap solution or clean water is allowed.
• Glazing is an almost transparent, light coating designed to give an additional shade; in addition, it adds volume and emphasizes the contours of the relief. It can have several shades that imitate gold-plated, silver or bronze surfaces, as well as simply white, transparent or iridescent color. The product is applied with a brush, sponge, rubber spatula or special mitten. Can be washed with detergents or soapy water.

Protective compounds are used for all types of plaster used for finishing walls indoors and outdoors. Thanks to such means, it will last longer, will not crumble or crumble, which means its maintenance will be minimal.

How to renew a decorative plaster coating

If you need to remove decorative coating from a wall, you can use several methods:

• repainting in a different color - done when it is necessary to change the color scheme;
• withdrawal before concrete base- when it is necessary to apply another version of plaster;
• puttying over the layer to a smooth, even wall - such a surface can be finished with a light decorative material, for example, wallpaper.

Decorative plaster for walls video

When choosing decorative plaster, it is impossible to say which type is better or worse. It all depends on everyone’s personal preference and the requirements put forward for the finished result, as well as the availability of a certain budget, because the price of decorative plaster for walls sometimes differs by an order of magnitude. It is quite easy to apply one mixture, for example, textured and structural, and you can do it yourself, but applying Venetian plaster will require the involvement of specialists. You must remember this when purchasing decorative coating.