Gypsum Plastering is one of the most common finishing techniques and is very often used in buildings. Stucco was applied to provide a smooth surface and a pleasing visual effect, to block the rough surface of the brick walls.Â
Â
Plastering not only improves beauty but also acts as a defense for the bricks from rain and wind. The plaster materials available in the market are cement plaster, lime plaster, clay plaster, mud plaster, gypsum plaster, etc.Â
Â
In recent years, gypsum plaster has become popular and has replaced lime and cement plaster. Here, we will discuss the properties, method of application, advantages, and disadvantages of gypsum plaster.Â
What is Gypsum Plaster?
In gypsum plaster, gypsum material is used as a binder instead of Portland cement. Gypsum plaster is a white cement material made by dehydrating the mineral gypsum.Â
Â
When dry gypsum powder is mixed with water, it hardens. This material can be applied over the surface of blocks, brick or concrete to form a smooth surface. The mixture is readily available in a ready-to-use format and does not need sand. Only additional water is needed. Gypsum plaster offers excellent acoustic and thermal properties as well as provides a flat and smooth wall surface.Â
Â
Gypsum plaster provides a smooth interior finish and is an ideal base for high-quality paints and other additional wallcoverings. Gypsum plaster can be applied to smooth and rough wall surfaces.Â
Â
Gypsum plaster is easy to apply and does not require special workers, it can be worked like ordinary cement mortar. The surface preparation and application of gypsum plaster must be appropriate to prevent cracking and peeling.Â
Gypsum Plaster Material Storage
Gypsum surfaces that are exposed to moisture can reduce the strength of the gypsum plaster. So, the gypsum bag / package should be stored at a slightly elevated place on a dry wooden, brick, or concrete tray.
The shelf life of the gypsum plaster material is usually 3-4 months from the date of manufacture. If properly stored under suitable temperature and humidity conditions, their shelf life can increase by 6 months or more.
Gypsum Plaster Thickness
Gypsum plaster is best made with a thickness of 6 -20mm. The thickness of the bottom layer of gypsum plaster is usually 11mm for walls and 8mm for ceilings / ceilings, while the final layer of gypsum plaster is usually 2 mm only.
It is recommended to apply a gypsum plaster thickness of at least 6mm for gypsum plaster so that it can avoid cracking. If a thickness of more than 20 mm of plaster built into the wall is required, then the initial layer of cement sand plaster is applied with a thickness of 8-12 mm then gypsum plaster for the remaining thickness so that it is not less than 6 mm to achieve a smooth finish.
Gypsum plaster material technical specifications
Technically, the gypsum plaster material is a white-based material with a powder form. The following is a breakdown of the gypsum plaster technical specifications.
- Surface Finish Colour: White
- Dough Mixing Time: 25-30 Minutes
- Coverage Area (12 mm thickness): ~ 1.95 m2 / pack
- Package Size: 25 kg packaging
- Gypsum plaster is considered light and therefore its use for plastering does not add to the structural burden on buildings.
- Gypsum plaster does not shrink during the drying and hardening process unlike cement plaster.
- Gypsum plaster does not crack easily.
- Gypsum is non-flammable and contains high crystalline water content. In case of fire, it acts like a barrier and protects beam, concrete, and steel materials.
- Gypsum can prevent rust on metal utensils such as pipes and increase its durability.
- It has low thermal conductivity and ensures energy and power saving.
- Gypsum plaster provides high tensile and bending strength.
After the plaster is properly applied and dry, it is possible to dye the gypsum plaster with any type of paint except for cement paint.Â
Excess of Gypsum Plaster
The following are some of the advantages you will get if you use gypsum plaster:Â
Â
- The application of gypsum plaster is a time-saving process, resulting in reduced project costs.
- Easy to use for an excellent finish.
- Gypsum plaster does not require curing which saves water and time during construction.
- Gypsum shows bonding properties. Because only one layer is needed for the ceiling, internal brick walls, AAC blocks and concrete columns are sufficient.
- The room looks big and beautiful because the gypsum plaster is pure white.
- Gypsum plaster is a pre-mixed material and comes in easy-to-handle packages.
- It can be easily applied and shaped into different shapes for decorative purposes.
- The kneading time of the gypsum plaster can be controlled and also the time interval required between two successive layers is less.
- Gypsum plaster gives a smooth finish to the surface and is ready to accept almost any paint.
- Various surface textures and surface hardness can be gained.
- Gypsum plaster is not affected by insects and does not support fungal growth.
Disadvantages of Gypsum Plaster
- The following are some of the drawbacks that you will get if you use gypsum plaster:
- For the same thickness, gypsum plaster is more costly than cement plaster. But in areas where river sand is tough to obtain, gypsum plaster will be cost-effective.
- Gypsum plaster is not good for use on external walls because it is susceptible to moisture and in areas that are constantly moist such as bathrooms, toilets, washing areas, kitchens, etc.
Our construction cost is 1800 Rs/sqft
Don’t hesitate to contact our team. Our team receives special training to ensure that you get all the answers from us you. Get a free consultation from our team.
Related FAQ’s & Comments