Plaster Products
Use of gypsum plaster dates back to 4000 B.C. when the Egyptians applied a gypsum plaster-like substance to the interior and exterior of pyramids. Benjamin Franklin brought gypsum to the United States in the mid-1700s as a soil additive. In the early 20th century, modern contractors began using gypsum plaster extensively for both residential and commercial construction.
General Uses
Gypsum plasters are suitable for all interior plastering except where directly exposed to free water or severe moisture conditions. Plasters cannot be used in exterior applications such as carports, soffits and open porches.
Gypsum Plasters are non-combustible and act to prevent passage of intense heat from fire for extended periods.
Lath and Plaster (Conventional)
Lath and plaster have long been the industry standard for wall construction. Gypsum plaster eliminates the need for joint taping and finishing and when properly applied, provides a smooth , high quality wall surface with high resistance to impact and abrasion. In addition, plaster walls resist nail pops better than standard wallboard.
For years, lath and plaster have been used in both residential and commercial applications to partition interior space and in non-load-bearing exterior walls where appearance and durability are key. Plaster is also commonly used as the panel material for radiant heating systems in ceilings. When used as a finish material, plaster effectively masks framing components or mechanical service areas while contributing to the overall strength of the wall.
Conventional plasters combined with gypsum or metal lath provide a smooth wall regardless of the framing alignment. When used with expanded metal lath, conventional plasters create a mechanical bond with the lath for maximum strength and durability.
Veneer Plaster
Veneer Plaster Systems consist of a 4' wide gypsum plastering base with a special, highly absorptive paper surface that is covered with thinly troweled, special purpose plasters. Veneer plaster systems can be specified for virtually all types of partition and ceiling constructions including wood or steel framing of furring and masonry. For both residential and commercial buildings, veneer plaster system produces a wall more nail-pop resistant than drywall and, when properly installed, more crack resistant than conventional lath and plaster.
Plaster vs. Drywall
- Gypsum plaster offers important advantages compared to drywall construction.
- It is possible to eliminate wavy walls and corners due to poorly aligned framing by varying the plaster thickness.
- Plaster eliminates texture differences between paper surface and joint compound.
- Plaster gives a smoother, easier-to-repair wall than drywall construction.
