Cement plaster and gypsum plaster are two common materials used in construction for creating smooth surfaces on walls and ceilings. They have distinct properties and applications that make them suitable for different situations. Understanding their differences can help in making informed decisions during the construction process.
Cement plaster is composed of sand, Portland cement, and water. It finds application in both exterior and interior surfaces. However, there are certain characteristics and considerations associated with cement plaster:
Properties of Cement Plaster
| Properties | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Areas | Exterior and interior surfaces |
| Vulnerability to Fungus | Prone to fungus and molds |
| Surface Smoothness | Not suitable for smooth surfaces |
| Surface Texture | Gives a rough finish |
| Wastage During Application | High wastage of material during application |
| Shrinkage Risk | Prone to shrinkage due to low tensile strength |
| Curing Requirements | Requires pre-curing and post-curing |
| Fire Resistance | Becomes brittle and cracks in case of fire |
| Rust Inhibition | Not a rust inhibitor |
| Mixing and Accuracy | On-site mixing may lead to variations in ratios |
| Appearance | Creates a dark grey finish |
| Density | Higher density, increasing load on building |
| Time Consumption | Time-consuming application process |
| Cost | Potentially higher cost due to material and time |
| Environmental Impact | Not considered a green building product |
| Pre-painting Preparation | Requires pop punning for a smoother paint application |
Gypsum plaster, on the other hand, is made from gypsum, a lightweight material formed through the evaporation of seawater in ancient basins. It has its own set of characteristics and applications:
Properties of Gypsum Plaster
| Properties | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Areas | Suitable for ceilings and interior walls only |
| Vulnerability to Fungus | Resistant to fungus and unaffected by insects |
| Surface Smoothness | Can be applied on smooth and rough surfaces |
| Surface Texture | Provides a very smooth finish, ideal for painting |
| Wastage During Application | Minimal wastage due to controlled premixed composition |
| Shrinkage Risk | Prevents shrinkage due to high tensile strength |
| Curing Requirements | No curing required |
| Fire Resistance | Acts as a barrier, protecting blockwork and concrete |
| Rust Inhibition | Prevents rust and corrosion on metal fittings |
| Mixing and Accuracy | Pre-mixed and easy to handle, reducing wastage |
| Appearance | Creates a pure white finish |
| Density | Lower density, reducing load on building |
| Time Consumption | Time-saving application process |
| Cost | Economical due to reduced material and time usage |
| Environmental Impact | Considered a green building product |
| Pre-painting Preparation | No pop punning needed, paint can be applied directly |
Both cement plaster and gypsum plaster offer distinct advantages and are suitable for different scenarios. Understanding their properties and applications is crucial in ensuring a successful construction project. Factors such as surface type, time constraints, budget, and environmental considerations should be taken into account when choosing between these two materials.
