When it comes to renovating your home or office space, plasterwork is indeed one of the most popular design choices you can opt for. Plastering adds texture, depth, and visual character to the walls, ceilings, and even furniture. But with different types of plasters available in the market, you may likely get confused about which option to choose.
Two types of plaster that are often compared are ordinary plaster and Venetian plaster. Although both serve the same purpose, they differ in various ways. In this blog post, we will delve into the differences between ordinary vs Venetian plaster and which one to use based on the various project requirements.
What Is Ordinary Plaster?
Let’s start with ordinary plaster. It is made from gypsum, which is a soft, white mineral that can be easily moulded into any shapes and sizes.
The texture of ordinary plaster is smooth and fine, which makes it an ideal option for covering small cracks and dents on walls and ceilings. Ordinary plaster is the go-to, cost-effective and easy-to-install option for those on a budget that don’t want anything complex going on their walls.
What Is Venetian Plaster?
On the other hand, Venetian plaster is made from a mixture of lime, marble dust, and pigments. It has a coarser texture than ordinary plaster, and it’s usually applied in thin layers.
Unlike ordinary plaster, Venetian plaster is more expensive and requires a skilled artisan to apply it. Though expensive has its benefits, as it comes with more durability and resistance to wear and tear, making it an excellent option for high-traffic areas like hallways and entrance foyers.
How Are Two Different?
The biggest difference between ordinary and Venetian plaster is their finish. Ordinary plaster comes in various sheens, including matte, gloss, and satin.
Venetian plaster, on the other hand, has a luxurious, polished finish that gives off a warm and inviting glow. Moreover, Venetian plaster can come in a range of colours and textures, making it a versatile option for different types of interior decor styles.
When it comes to maintenance, Venetian plaster requires special care as it is prone to water damage. This is one of the biggest reasons why professional Venetian plastering services are more expensive. Ordinary plaster, on the other hand, is much easier to maintain and can withstand regular cleaning with mild cleaning agents.
To sum it up, the key differences between the two include:
- Price: Venetian plaster is often priced higher, as it’s ‘better’ than your ordinary plaster
- Durability: Between both of these plasters, Venetian plaster is more durable because of the addition of marble or limestone in its composition
- Composition: This is the main difference between the two. Venetian plaster is made from limestone dust or marble, while ordinary plaster is made from gypsum
- Dying time: Venetian plaster doesn’t dry quickly, which is what gives it its ‘smooth finish’. Ordinary plaster, on the other hand, dries up pretty quickly.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, both ordinary and Venetian plasters have their pros and cons. If you are on a budget and want a smooth and elegant finish for your walls or ceiling, then ordinary plaster is the way to go.
But, if you want a more luxurious and durable finish that can make a long-lasting statement in your space, then Venetian plaster is a worthy investment.
