Gypsum plaster has gained immense popularity in modern construction due to its smooth finish, fast application, and eco-friendly properties. Unlike traditional cement plaster, gypsum wall plaster offers superior durability, fire resistance, and moisture resistance, making it an ideal choice for interior wall finishing.
With the growing demand for gypsum-based construction materials, architects, builders, and homeowners are increasingly shifting toward this efficient alternative. This comprehensive guide covers gypsum plaster, its benefits, applications, and a detailed comparison with cement plaster.
What is Gypsum Plaster?
Definition and Composition
Gypsum plaster, also known as Plaster of Paris (POP), is a quick-setting material derived from gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate). It is widely used for interior wall plaster, ceiling finishes, and decorative moldings.
How is Gypsum Plaster Made?
Gypsum plaster is produced by heating natural gypsum to remove water, resulting in a fine powder known as Plaster of Paris (POP). When mixed with water, it hardens into a strong and smooth surface, perfect for gypsum wall finishing.
There are two primary sources of gypsum:
- Natural Gypsum – Mined from gypsum deposits
- Synthetic Gypsum – A byproduct of industrial processes, ensuring sustainability
Properties of Gypsum Plaster
Gypsum plaster has unique properties that make it a superior choice for construction:
- Lightweight & Smooth Finish – Provides an ultra-smooth, crack-free surface ideal for painting.
- Fire Resistance – High resistance to fire, making buildings safer.
- Moisture Resistance – Special formulations of gypsum plaster for moisture resistance are available in humid environments.
- Eco-Friendly – A sustainable material that reduces the carbon footprint compared to cement plaster.
Benefits of Using Gypsum Plaster
1. Faster Drying Time
Unlike cement plaster, gypsum wall plaster sets quickly, reducing the overall construction time.
2. No Curing Required
Cement plaster requires water curing for weeks, while gypsum plastering eliminates this need, saving water and labor costs.
3. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal
With a ready-mix gypsum plaster, walls get a seamless finish with fewer cracks and undulations.
4. Durability & Strength
Gypsum ceiling plaster and wall coatings are strong, long-lasting, and resistant to shrinkage or cracks.
5. Cost-Effective
Although the cost of gypsum plaster per square foot may seem higher initially, it reduces maintenance and repainting costs over time.
Read More: Advantages of Gypsum Plaster
Applications of Gypsum Plaster
Gypsum plaster is used in various construction projects:
- Interior Wall and Ceiling Finishing – Creates smooth, durable walls and ceilings.
- Decorative Moldings & False Ceilings – Used for intricate ceiling designs and gypsum-based construction materials.
- Commercial & Residential Buildings – Found in homes, offices, hotels, and retail spaces.
Types of Gypsum Plaster Provided by Buildon
Buildon offers a wide range of high-quality gypsum plasters designed for various construction needs. These plasters are known for their purity, smooth finish, and enhanced durability. Below are the different types of gypsum plaster available from Buildon:
1. Gypsum Plaster One Coat
- Made from high-purity gypsum, providing a mirror-like smooth finish.
- Coverage: 20 sq. ft. per 25kg bag at 12mm thickness.
- Purity: 90%+ with whiteness of 92%.
- Setting Time: Initial: 12-15 min | Final: 24-30 min.
- Ideal for: Direct application on walls without sand/cement plaster.
2. Imported Gypsum Plaster
- High-grade imported gypsum plaster with superior bonding.
- Coverage: 20 sq. ft. per 25kg bag at 12mm thickness.
- Purity: 85%+ with whiteness of 85%.
- Setting Time: Initial: 12-15 min | Final: 24-30 min.
- Ideal for: Interior walls requiring a superior smooth finish.
3. Gypsum Master Plaster
- A high-purity plaster designed for smooth and durable finishes.
- Coverage: 16 sq. ft. per 20kg bag at 12mm thickness.
- Purity: 85%+ with whiteness of 85%.
- Setting Time: Initial: 12-15 min | Final: 24-30 min.
- Ideal for: Use in residential and commercial projects.
4. Gypsum Plaster Perlite One Coat Super 200
- Enhanced with Perlite for added strength and insulation.
- Coverage: 24 sq. ft. per 25kg bag at 12mm thickness.
- Purity: 90%+ with whiteness of 92%.
- Setting Time: Initial: 12-15 min | Final: 24-30 min.
- Ideal for: Projects requiring high durability and thermal insulation.
5. Gypsum Plaster Vermiculite
- A brownish-white gypsum plaster reinforced with vermiculite for extra durability.
- Coverage: 23-24 sq. ft. per 25kg bag at 12mm thickness.
- Purity: High-grade gypsum with 78% whiteness.
- Setting Time: Initial: 11-15 min | Final: 25-30 min.
- Ideal for: Construction requiring fire-resistant and lightweight material.
6. Classic Gypsum Plaster
- A cost-effective gypsum plaster with a smooth finish.
- Coverage: 20 sq. ft. per 25kg bag at 12mm thickness.
- Purity: 70-80% with whiteness of 70-80%.
- Setting Time: Initial: 11-15 min | Final: 23-25 min.
- Ideal for: Budget-friendly plastering applications.
7. Buildon P-20 Ready Mix Plaster
- Pre-mixed cement-based plaster for interior and exterior walls.
- Coverage: 17-18 sq. ft. per 40kg bag at 10-12mm thickness.
- Contains: Cement, sand, lime, and additives for better adhesion.
- Ideal for: Block walls, bricks, ceilings, and concrete surfaces.
8. Bondit Plaster Bond+
- A high-performance bonding agent for gypsum plaster.
- Uses: Ensures strong adhesion of gypsum plaster to concrete surfaces.
- Features: Waterproofing properties to prevent leakages.
9. Bondit-151
- Another high-quality bonding agent for gypsum to concrete application.
- Uses: Provides a flexible and waterproof surface.
- Ideal for: Bonding gypsum plaster to RCC, tiles, and concrete structures.
Comparison: Gypsum Plaster vs. Cement Plaster
1. Strength and Durability
While cement plaster is known for its high strength, gypsum plaster is more crack-resistant and lightweight.
2. Cost-Effectiveness
The cost of gypsum plaster per square foot is higher than cement, but long-term savings on labor, curing, and maintenance make it a better investment.
3. Application Process
Gypsum plaster is ready to use and needs only water, whereas cement plaster requires mixing with sand and additional curing.
4. Which One to Choose?
For interior walls and ceilings, gypsum plaster is preferred due to its smooth finish, quick setting, and durability. However, cement plaster is better for exterior surfaces due to its weather resistance.
How to Apply Gypsum Plaster?
1. Surface Preparation
- Clean the surface to remove dust and loose particles.
- Dampen the wall slightly to prevent quick absorption of water from the plaster.
2. Tools Required
- Steel Trowel
- Measuring bucket
- Plastering hawk
- Aluminium Channel
3. Application Process
- Mix the ready-mix gypsum plaster with water.
- Apply a thin, even coat using a trowel.
- Level the surface and let it dry.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying on wet walls – Leads to improper bonding.
- Over-mixing – Reduces the setting time.
- Skipping surface preparation – Causes cracks and uneven texture.
Cost and Availability of Gypsum Plaster
1. Price Factors
The cost of gypsum plaster per square foot depends on:
- Brand (e.g., Buildon Gypsum Plaster, one of the best brands for gypsum plaster)
- Region & Supplier Costs
- Quantity (Retail vs. Wholesale Gypsum Plaster Price)
2. Where to Buy?
- Buy gypsum plaster online from construction suppliers.
- Find gypsum plaster suppliers near me for local availability.
- Bulk purchase options for large-scale projects.
Conclusion
Gypsum plaster is revolutionizing modern construction with its quick application, smooth finish, and eco-friendly benefits. Whether for residential or commercial projects, its fire resistance, durability, and cost savings make it a preferred alternative to cement plaster.
For high-quality gypsum wall plaster, Buildon Gypsum Plaster offers premium solutions for home and commercial use. Whether retail or wholesale, gypsum plaster is a smart investment for a strong, beautiful, and long-lasting finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between gypsum plastering and normal plastering?
Gypsum plastering provides a smooth, crack-free finish, sets quickly, and doesn’t require water curing. Normal plastering (cement-sand mix) takes longer to dry and requires water curing for several days.
2. Is gypsum plaster waterproof?
Standard gypsum plaster is not waterproof, but special moisture-resistant variants are available for humid areas. It is best to avoid using gypsum plaster in wet areas like bathrooms or exteriors.
3. What is the lifespan of gypsum plaster?
When applied correctly, gypsum plaster can last more than 50 years without significant wear, provided it is not exposed to excessive moisture.
4. What is the coverage area of 25kg gypsum plaster?
A 25kg bag of gypsum plaster covers approximately 20-25 square feet at a 12mm thickness, depending on surface type and application technique.
5. What is the mix ratio for gypsum plaster?
The ideal mix ratio for gypsum plaster is 1:1.25 (1 part water to 1.25 parts gypsum by weight). Always add plaster to water, not the other way around, for a smooth, lump-free mix.