The selection of surface preparation materials that will give the finish the desired aesthetics and durability is paramount to every interior wall finishing work. In the context of construction, gypsum plaster and wall putty are widely accepted applications. Gypsum plaster and wall putty differ very significantly as to the area of application, some advantages, and the finish they give the surface that they coat.
This blog will serve the purpose of explaining gypsum and wall putty in terms of property, advantages, and application. Thus, providing you with the necessary considerations to make the right selection for your work.
Understanding Gypsum Plaster
Gypsum plaster is a very commonly used construction finishing material for the interiors of buildings, thus rendering surfaces capable of receiving paint or wallpaper. Gypsum is mixed with water to create a thick paste that sets in a period. One of the greatest gypsum plaster benefits is setting time & requires no water curing in a single coat. Thus, the construction at the site can carry on with work without the traditional break for making cement and drying.
The very neat gypsum plaster application uses less moisture. Hence, it is an environmental product. Apart from requiring fewer coats, gypsum takes a really long time to cure as compared to cement plaster and sets very quickly with excellent smoothness. Because of its light weight, it has an indirect impact on additional structural loading to the buildings. For better adherence of surfaces, a bonding agent for gypsum like Buildon’s Plaster Bond+ & Bondit 151 is recommended.
Understanding Wall Putty
Wall putty is very fine powder white cement with polymers and other additives that promote adhesion as well as smoothness. Most are applied as surface preparation materials for painting. The main area of use of wall putty uses is to fill up micro-cracks and fine blemishes on the surface of walls, forming a homogeneous substrate for painting.
Wall putty is best suited for application on different surfaces, such as concrete walls and cement plaster. Drywall is in a different case. The patina enhances the texture, giving it a refined and smooth appearance while maintaining its elegant finish. However, it is not a standalone product for wall finishing; it is coupled with cement plaster or ready mix plaster.
Plaster vs. Putty Comparison
For plaster vs putty, weightage is higher under strength, application, time of drying, and durability.
- Strength and Durability
Gypsum plaster is specially used for finishing purposes as an interior application, as no forms of cement plastering can be utilized as paint-finishing surfaces. Therefore, gypsum plaster has a better setting time and makes the most advantageous factor of being crack resistant and possesses good thermal insulation quality, whereas gypsum plaster shows more favor to flame resistance when compared with wall putty.
The main difference, though, is that wall putty is meant to serve as a preparatory coat for painting, rather than as the final layer of application on the wall, a role-enhancing paint adhesion.
- Application and Drying Time
Gypsum plaster application creates a fast-setting plaster that requires less water and no curing, making construction more efficient. The opposite has to occur in wall putty, which with its long drying time is applied in multiple coats to eventually obtain the desired smoothness.
- Cost and Efficiency
Gypsum plaster costs more than putty, but since it replaces sand-cement plaster, it is a cost-efficient choice. Conversely, considering durability and maintenance, all expenditure encumbered in plastering sways the balance in its favor. Unmasking the costs, wall putty does appear attractive, only to show off some biting profits later on. Other requirements, including cement plaster, are not so glorious with the wall putty.
Which is Best for Interior Wall Finishing?
Hollow walls are generally considered good for plastering because they give a good smooth surface for plaster and plaster has good strength. Never a dusting before or after application, as it gives a very smooth, fine finish. Gypsum plaster is lighter than cement plaster, is faster in construction, and prevents any cracking afterward.
Read all the details on Gypsum vs Cement Plaster. Again, wall putty is important to maintain durability and finish for paint. It covers irregularities and provides a good painting base over gypsum or cement plaster.
Is Gypsum Plaster Stronger than Wall Putty?
Of course, gypsum plaster is stronger than wall putty in terms of strength and durability. Wall putty is great for surface finishings without any contribution to the strength of the wall. On the contrary, gypsum plaster will provide strength to the base and breathe life into it with the least cracking and surface imperfections. This comparison between Gypsum Plaster and Imported Gypsum Plaster may help anyone looking for Gypsum information before making a decision.
In a Nutshell
There are multiple advantages to the use of gypsum plaster and wall putty. This gypsum plaster gives a very high strength, provides ease of application, and insulates acoustically and thermally. Contrarily wall putty is used to form a fine surface for painting. So, depending on your requirement for construction, use any of the wall or putty. For top-grade gypsum plaster, read about Buildon Gypsum Plaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gypsum plastering better than wall putty?
When strength, aesthetics, and insulation are on the priority list over a little damage, then Gypsum plaster is the choice.
Which plaster is best for interior walls?
Gypsum plaster is a preferred choice for all interior applications as it leaves a shiny smooth surface, is brittle, and has certain physical properties that allow it to fill all kinds of cracks.
What are the disadvantages of wall putty?
Sometimes the putty doesn’t have that kind of durability, so it is for aesthetics- that is, you can see a fine web of cracks on it.
Is gypsum plaster strong?
Gypsum plaster has a high strength value as light in weight, having excellent tensile and compressive strength applied sensibly for finishing works in construction.
What is better than wall putty?
Gypsum plaster is a superior alternative to wall putty as they offer better adhesion, durability, and a smooth finish. Unlike wall putty, which has little to no load-bearing strength and may peel off with improper application, gypsum also provides thermal insulation and enhances wall longevity.
Bhavesh Nandani, co-founder of Buildon Group, shares his entrepreneurial journey and experiences in his writings. Starting his career at 21, Bhavesh founded a logistics company in Mumbai and excelled in the customs field, securing a top rank in the Rule 9 examination. In 2007, he acquired Keshavlal Kalyanji & Co., an 85-year-old logistics brand, establishing himself among Mumbai’s top custom house agents. Driven by his vision for growth, he ventured into importing gypsum boards and plasters in 2008, addressing a significant market gap. His content reflects his passion for business, innovation, and creating impactful solutions in the construction industry.
