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
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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)
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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
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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
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- 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.
