Venetian plaster is gaining popularity in modern homes and businesses. It’s not just for classic Italian buildings anymore.
This plaster is a mix of granulated limestone and water, sometimes with dyes for colour. It can be applied on walls, ceilings, and even furniture, giving a marble-like finish but at a lower cost and with less weight.
Pros of Venetian Plaster
- Low Maintenance and Long-Lasting: It’s durable and needs little care. A simple re-polish and wax are enough to maintain its shine.
- Versatile Application: It can be used on various surfaces like drywall, wood, and brick.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Offers depth and complexity not found in other materials. It can also be coloured and finished in various ways to suit different styles.
- Eco-Friendly and Insulating: Made from natural materials, it’s breathable, mould and mildew-resistant, and offers insulation, helping maintain interior temperatures.
- Customisable Colours and Finishes: You can choose from a wide range of colours and finishes to create a unique look for your space.
Cons of Venetian Plaster
- Higher Initial Cost: It’s more expensive than paint and requires skilled application.
- Not Very Durable: Can crack if there’s movement underneath or get damaged easily, needing recoating.
- Shows Substrate Imperfections: The surface underneath must be flawless, or it will show through the plaster.
- Limited Use Locations: Not suitable for external use or in wet areas like showers.
DIY vs. Professional Application
Applying Venetian plaster can be a DIY project (take help from the following guide from The Spruce) or done by a professional. Doing it yourself is cheaper but might not look as good as a pro’s work. You’ll need the right tools and safety gear, like gloves and goggles. If you have breathing problems, a mask is a good idea too.
The process starts with fixing any wall damage.
Next, you apply a primer. Then, put on the plaster with a trowel. You might need several coats for the right look. Wait a day before putting on the final topcoat. This coat makes it look good and lasts longer.
If you hire polished plaster specialists, it costs more, but you get a better finish. They know how to apply it perfectly and deal with tricky bits. Pros also have all the tools and know which topcoat is best for your plaster.
Cost Considerations
When thinking about using Venetian plaster, the cost is a big part. If you do it yourself, it can cost around $40 per square metre. This is cheaper because you’re not paying for a professional’s time and skills.
Hiring a professional costs more, over $150 per square metre. But they give you a better finish, and it looks more professional. You don’t need to buy your tools either.
DIY saves money but might not look as good. Hiring a pro costs more but gives you better quality. Think about what matters more to you – saving money or getting the best look.
Maintenance
Looking after Venetian plaster is easy. If it has a wax sealant, it’s even simpler to clean. This topcoat keeps dust and dirt from sticking, so you don’t have to clean it as often.
To clean, just use water and mild soap. Use a soft cloth like cotton or microfiber. Don’t use harsh cleaners. They can damage the texture and colour.
So, Venetian plaster is low-maintenance. It’s easy to keep looking good with just a simple clean now and then.
In Summary
Venetian plaster is a stylish and versatile option for those seeking a luxurious look without the hefty price tag of marble. Its benefits include aesthetic appeal, low maintenance, and eco-friendliness. However, it’s important to consider the higher cost, potential durability issues, and the skill required for application before deciding if it’s the right choice for your space.
