You might need plastering services at your home for several reasons, whether you want to maintain existing features or add ornamental design to your property. The material serves as both a coating and a protective element, and it’s a highly reliable substance. Here’s what you should know about its contents, history, and general usage.

Composition of Plaster

The most standard formula used in plastering services consists of gypsum, cement, or lime blended with water and sand. Plaster typically comes in powder form, but a contractor will combine it with water to create a pasty mixture when it's time to use it. Contractors may also add additional materials to the water, such as hair or other fibers, to improve the integrity and strength of the finished product. The resulting paste is easy to spread on surfaces and is used to create distinctive moldings.

Plaster Design

Different types of mixes are used for different ornamental restoration projects and plastering services. Gypsum, when mixed with water, transforms from dry powder into a modified gypsum product that's renowned for its fire-proofing properties. Because it dries so quickly, gypsum plaster is used in ornamental designs for casting moldings and for devising running cornices and decorative trim. In contrast, lime plaster cures slowly when exposed to oxygen. However, it's popular for its breathability and flexibility, and it therefore is a smart choice in areas where humidity is a concern. Cement is highly resistant to moisture, which makes it an outstanding option for exterior projects.

History of Plaster

Plaster has been used for many ornamental purposes throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The substance was used to make everything from medallions on ceilings to beautiful cornices and raised relief sculpture in both the Colonial Revival and Victorian periods. These structures remain today, though water damage and foundation settlement can cause small changes to the integrity of plaster designs over time.

Old World Plastering is the leading source for comprehensive plastering services throughout Cincinnati, OH. These highly skilled craftsmen specialize in ornamental design, restoration, repairs, and historic preservation. They’ve provided services for some of the most well-known businesses in the region, including the German Heritage Museum and the Cincinnati Art Museum. They’re so confident in their abilities that they guarantee their work. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (513) 481-1122 with any questions you have.