The invention of plaster is a boon to human civilization. Serving its significance since ages, plastering has evolved with time and technology. From shielding the walls to maintaining a smooth finish, plaster saves the wall from climatic or external conditions. In this guide, we will discuss the advantages, significance, and characteristics of two types of plaster, gypsum plastering and cement plastering, to understand which one is better. While both are unique, gypsum manufacturers and suppliers have an edge to introduce new features and that’s why they are different from traditional cement plaster. 

What is plastering? 

Plastering is a technique of applying a thin coat of material to the wall to protect it from external factors like wind, dust, or rain. Plasters are usually a mixture of chemicals, lime, sand, or water. The reason why plastering is essential is because: 

• Ensures longevity of the masonry work as it becomes a layer to protect construction materials from temperature fluctuations, weather, etc. 
• Provides smooth surface, eliminating uneven and imperfect surfaces which makes wall easy to paint. 
• Shields the wall and ceiling from environmental factors like downpour, heat, dust or wind.
• Plastering can avoid the growth of mildew or spores if done using waterproof techniques. 
• Gives a sleek and smooth look to walls making it look aesthetically appealing. 

Gypsum Plaster v/s Cement Plaster

Now, diving deeper to understand the distinction between gypsum plastering and cement plastering.

What is cement plastering?

Cement plaster is a mixture of sand, water and cement. Applying a double coat of cement plaster makes a wall solid and durable—the proportion of mixture in cement plaster depends on where the plaster is applied. The combination of cement plaster is also known as cement stucco. 

Advantages of cement plaster 

• Versatile 

One of the primary benefits of cement plaster is that it is ideal for indoors and outdoors. When outdoors, it can help protect the exterior from harsh weather conditions. When indoors, cement plaster can be helpful in maintaining the finishing of the wall. 

• Durability 

Cement is considered one of the most durable construction materials, which strengthens any part it is added to. Due to weather resistance, it can stay intact for decades without any harm to the wall.

• Good bonding  properties 

Cement plaster is easy to set and has good bonding properties that can stabilize the mortar work. Also, the bonding is not affected by fluctuations in temperature, which allows for faster setting times. 

• Fire resistant 

Cement is not easy to catch fire. Thus, it is fire-resistant and ideal for use on the interior and exterior walls. It offers almost four hours of fire resistance and has low thermal conductivity, thus not transferring heat energy easily. 

Disadvantages of cement plaster

• Time-consuming 

Cement plaster mixture needs a lot of water work to create a perfect mixture. This increases the work and makes the overall project expensive. 

• Lead to cracks

The curing period of cement plaster requires sprinkling water. If not done. The plaster will not gain strength and will start developing cracks. 

• Impermeable to water 

Cement plaster is not permeable to water, which makes it a bad choice for washrooms and bathrooms. Without proper ventilation in such areas, it can lead to the breeding of mold spores or mildew. 

What is gypsum plaster? 

Gypsum plaster is the mixture created by adding water to the readymade powdered form of the POP. It is also known as Plaster of Paris (POP). It is white in colour, which adds spark to the wall. Gypsum plaster is heated at different temperatures to create various types of plaster. 

Advantages of gypsum plaster 

• Easily available 

Since gypsum is factory-made, it is easily available in stores. Also, the mixture of gypsum is easy to make, which saves time and is convenient. Whereas, cement plaster is difficult to make as materials like sand are not readily available. 

• Lightweight 

Gypsum is a very lightweight material. This means that the mixture of gypsum is light which does not add unnecessary weight to construction. Thus, they are likely to maintain their shape even in cases of natural calamities. 

• Dries up easily 

The setting time of gypsum plaster is quicker as compared to cement plaster. It dries up within 3 days, quicker than cement plaster, which takes 21 days. Thus, painting jobs also become easier to start, saving time and resources. 

• No post curing 

After applying gypsum plaster, it requires little attention and care. Unlike cement plaster, which requires water curing, it increases the usage of water and also manpower. 

• Smooth finishing 

The finish of the gypsum plaster looks smooth even after a single coat. They are good even on bumpy and uneven walls, giving it an even look. Also, gypsum is easy to apply and doesn’t require a lot of work to set.

So, which one is better? 

When it comes to plaster, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each plaster is better for different walls. The idealness of plaster also depends on cost, time, availability of resources and purposes. For interiors and ceilings, gypsum plaster is a better option. However, when talking about the exterior wall, cement plastering is relatively better since it is durable. 

To sum up,

Whatever plastering options you go with, it’s important to consider various factors. Weather, availability of natural resources and purpose are a few factors that affect the choice of plaster. If planning to go with gypsum plaster, make sure to connect with a better plaster provider that can provide it at cost-effective prices. To buy gypsum plaster, click at an affordable cost, click here.