1. Must-knows about mechanical plastering

1.1. What is plaster?

Plaster is the final layer applied to walls in final construction stages. It can be applied to both interior and exterior walls. Besides providing protection to concrete and brick walls, plaster is also used to conceal pipework, wiring, etc. Plaster also covers up blemishes, cracks, uneven spots, giving walls a smoother finish. There are various plaster mixtures, but also numerous techniques for applying it. The final appearance depends on the mixture and technique applied.

1.2. Traditional vs. mechanical plastering

Traditional plastering done by hand is challenging work, so it requires an experienced professional. This is exactly why mechanical plastering is cheaper. Also, in mechanical plastering, ready mixed plasters free of cementitious binders are used. Cement-free plaster adjusts more easily to physical properties of a house. Mechanical plastering is definitely faster, especially with smooth walls and large surfaces. Lets also not forget about all the money you can save. However, when it comes to smaller surfaces, traditional plastering is a better option since mechanical plastering requires surface preparation.

2. Choosing the right plasterer

Ask your friends and relatives for recommendations. Also, you can always find great professionals on Daibau.ng, where in addition to references, you can also view ratings and reviews left by previous customers. When you find the right ones, we recommend you dont wait too long before you contact them because good professionals are always overbooked, especially if your surface is less than 50 sqm. Plastering takes several days, so make sure you have this is mind when setting the date. Plasterers will appreciate the answers to the following questions during your negotiations:

- Are you constructing a new house or renovating an existing one?

- What kind of surface do you have at hand (wall, ceiling, concrete, bricks, etc.)?

- How many windows/doors do these walls have?

- What kind of plaster did you have in mind (gypsum, lime, cement, flexible, hybrid plaster)?

- What is the surface like (rough, smooth, etc.)?

- Do you want to conceal pipework, wiring?

- How big is the surface at hand?

3. Types of mechanically applied plasters

Mechanical plastering will secure an even and uniform finish, while constant mixing in a mixer renders more homogenous plaster. This helps avoid lumps, cracks, holes, patches, which makes the final appearance more appealing. The look and quality of soundproofing and insulation work depend on the plaster type you choose. You can find more information about the most widespread types in the text below.

3.1. Gypsum & cement plaster

If you want to get a rougher look resembling manual application, choose gypsum & cement plaster and apply it mechanically. This type and technique are suitable for damp rooms and facades, because this plaster is harder and impact-resistant. It can also withhold different loads.

3.2. Gypsum & lime plaster

Mechanically generated gypsum & lime plaster is smoother and softer, but more delicate. Its only used for interior walls in dry rooms. We dont recommend it for bathrooms, cellars and other damp rooms.

3.3. Insulating plaster

Mixing plaster with insulating substances, such as clay balls, will enhance its thermal insulating properties. This type of plaster can be applied mechanically, as well.

3.4. Cement-free plaster

This type of plaster contains acrylic and other binders, rather than cement. It renders a completely smooth and fine surface without much effort. The only potential disadvantage is that its not breathable due to synthetic fibres in its composition.

3.5. Clay plaster

Clay plasters are a special type. Clay is a natural material, which makes the time spent in a room a more healthy and pleasant experience. Its the most environmentally friendly type of plaster, and can be applied by hand or machine.

4. Procedure

4.1. Plastering equipment

Wall and ceiling plastering can be a lot easier and quicker if proper equipment is used. There are several types of tools and machines you can use for this. Some of them are versatile as you can use them to mix or apply any type of plaster, but there are also more specialized types. A mixer is manually loaded with plaster powder, available in specialist shops, which is then mixed with a certain amount of water until you get a homogenous, wet mixture. Plasters intended for traditional application have a very similar chemical composition to those which are mechanically applied. The difference is that mechanically applied plasters contain finer sand and special ingredients which make them suitable for mechanical application.

4.2. Proper surface preparation

Any cracks or other blemishes on the wall have to be fixed before plastering. The damaged part must be removed first and then properly repaired. If you’re dealing with a brick wall, the bricks must be stabilized. To reinforce this particular part of the wall, especially if its made up of various materials, apply a protective mesh. All surfaces must be hard and dry before the plasterwork begins. They shouldnt be coated with primer if the plaster is applied mechanically, which isnt the case with traditional plastering.  

4.3. Plastering

Mechanical plaster is applied in two layers. The first should be around 2.5 cm thick and applied in horizontal lines with a spray gun. The second layer is equal in thickness, but is applied vertically. Make sure the first layer is completely dry before you apply the second one, which should be as even as possible. Once the plaster is dry and hard, it can be treated the same way as the one applied by hand.