Plastering a wall is an art form in the construction field. It is a technique that has been in use for thousands of years. The primary materials used in the plastering process have changed over time, but the concept remains the same. The process of plastering involves applying a thin layer of plaster material over the surface of the wall. This layer can be used to smooth out the wall surface, fill gaps or cracks, and create a decorative texture.
Sand
One of the primary materials used in wall plastering is sand. Sand is used in conjunction with other materials to make the plaster mix. The particle size of sand used in plastering usually ranges from 0. 1mm to 2mm in diameter. Sand used in plastering is usually washed and dried to remove impurities such as dirt, silt, and clay. The sand used in plastering should be free from salt and should be chemically inert.
Sand is primarily used to provide bulk to the mix. It is an essential ingredient that helps to increase the volume of the plaster as well as to provide a rough texture. Sand is also used to reduce the shrinkage of the plaster after it has dried.
Lime
Another primary material used in wall plastering is lime. Lime has been used in construction for thousands of years. It has a high level of compatibility with other materials such as sand and cement. Lime is a versatile material that can be used to create different textures and colours on a wall surface.
Lime is used in plastering due to its high plasticity which makes it an ideal material for forming smooth surfaces. It also produces a smooth and attractive finish when combined with sand. Lime also acts as a natural preservative and prevents the growth of mould and mildew.
Cement
Cement is a relatively new material used in wall plastering. This material was first introduced in the early 1900s and quickly became popular in the construction industry. Cement is a type of binder that is mixed with sand and water to create a plaster mix. The primary characteristic of cement is its high strength.
Cement is primarily used in wall plastering as a binder to hold the plaster mix together. It also increases the durability of the plaster by improving its water resistance. Cement is also used to create a smooth and level surface that is ideal for painting.
Gypsum Plaster
Gypsum plaster is another material that is used in wall plastering. Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral that is widely available. Gypsum plaster is made by heating gypsum to remove its water content, and the resulting powder is then mixed with water to create a plaster mix.
Gypsum plaster is typically used in modern construction as it has superior water resistance properties compared to other materials. It is also easy to work with since it can be moulded into various shapes and parts before it hardens. Gypsum plaster is commonly used in areas that are prone to dampness and humidity.
Wall plastering is a technique that has been in use for thousands of years. The primary materials used in plastering have changed over time and vary depending on the specific application. In this article, we have discussed four primary materials – sand, lime, cement, and gypsum plaster. Each material has its unique characteristics that make it ideal for specific applications. Knowing the right material to use for a particular application is critical to achieving the desired results.
