Material Calculation for plastering in 1 click

Plastering means covering walls and ceilings with plaster to obtain a smoother or more textured appearance. It is smooth for painting on and keeps the surface protected from damage. Material calculation for plastering is required to calculate cement and sand quantity.

Applying plastering to buildings not only makes them look better, but also improves their durability and the way they retain and preserve heat.

Table of Contents

Plastering ratio for internal & external walls

The optimum mix ratio for internal walls is 1:6 (cement to sand).For external walls mix 1 part of cement with 4 parts of sand.

It is common to use thickness between 12 mm and 20 mm based on what type of wall is being installed on.

Material Calculation for Plastering

Area Unit:

Length & Height Unit:

Length:

Height:

Plaster Thickness (mm):

Cement Mortar Ratio (Cement : Sand):

Cement Cost (₹ per 50kg bag):

Sand Cost (₹ per ton):

Labour Rate (per m²):

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Best Practices for Plastering:

Surface Preparation:

Clean, dry, and dust, grease or loose material free the brick wall.

Lift off any old plaster or paint as it may stick and stop the new plaster adhering.

For wet concrete or brick walls the surface should first be wetted before application of the plaster to promote good bonding.

2. Mixing Plaster:

Never mix plaster in any other way than the manufacturer has outlined.

Stir the plaster until it’s smooth with no lumps.

Use clean water, tools in order to avoid contamination.

This reverts batches, mix small batches at a time to avoid the plaster from setting before use.

Application Techniques:

Include plastering from the top of the wall to prevent runs and drips.

With a repose apply a smooth even layer of plaster.

Press the plaster really well with the surface to make it bond well.

3. Layering:

Spreading plaster in thin layers is, especially for a thick coat of plaster. Excessive plaster also causes cracking or uneven drying of plaster.

If more than one layer is needed leave each one to dry before applying the next.

4. Smoothing and Finishing:

Use a float to smooth the wet placed surface after it has finished setting but before it is final.

Complete the surface by sponge or float with clean damp sponge of float to make it a polished surface.

Final smoothing should use a steel trowel to give a glass like finish to the plaster.

5. Curing:

Let the plaster set slowly so that it doesn’t crack. Take care of any plaster not covered by direct sunlight or strong winds while curing.

Under typical dry conditions, keep the plaster wet over the first 48-72 hours to avoid rapid drying and cracking.

6. Protecting the Work Area:

Make sure that the periphery is covered so that spills do not reach the flooring, or furniture fittings.

Cover windows and other surfaces from plaster splatters with dust sheets or plastic.

Plastering Thickness types and their use.

Thin Coat Plastering (1 to 3mm):

Usage: For smoothing over drywall or smooth masonry.

Application: Over prepared surfaces, especially on drywall or under coat plasters in order to obtain a finished surface. Everywhere around such places as living rooms and bedrooms.

Pros: Quick drying, uses less of plaster, convenient to use.

2. Normal Coat Plastering (6 to 12mm):

Usage: Ordinary plastering are common for most general plastering applications during house construction

Application: With commonplace plaster finishes it is most commonly applied to brickwork or concrete walls. This thickness makes it possible to cover minor imperfections in the wall by plaster.

Pros: Sturdy and hard; appropriate to different types of surfaces.

3. Thick Coat Plastering (12 to 25mm):

Usage: Used with uneven/rugged surfaces, such as old/irregular masonry etc. or where greater insulation is required.

Application: Used on a number of layers, the first of which is used to fill in gaps and finish layers afterwards. Also for some classification of types of external plastering.

Pros: Creates a smoother surface and thermally or sound insulates better.

Render (25mm and above):

Usage: This is a dense layer of plaster commonly used for an external wall to give a weather resistant finish.

Application: Normally used for the protection of the exterior walls from the weather. May need bonded agent to ensure good adhesion to rough surface.

Pros: Climate protection of outstanding quality, thermal insulating features.

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Tips for Better Plastering Results

Work in Small Sections:

Plaster can set quickly, particularly if you are working in a hot or a dry environment, so work in smaller chapters to finish smoothly without shouting for haste.

2. Use the Right Tools:

Purchase quality plastering tool including a good trowel, float and mixing paddle for better farming.

A plasterer’s hawk can help you move and spread plaster more easily.

3. Watch the Weather:

Do not plaster during extremely hot or cold weather because the conditions dry the plaster out too quickly or do not set properly.

Plastering in normal dry weather is perfect.

4. Maintain Consistent Consistency:

Check regularly that the mixture of plaster remains consistent, (not too thick, not too thin). There should be no lumps and it should be easy flowing.

5. Don’t Skimp on Primer:

For surfaces that want to be bonded with extra strength then consider the use of a bonding primer or bonding agent to improve plaster bonding on non-porous surfaces.

6. Avoid Overworking the Plaster:

Excessive finishing of the plaster surface results in cracking. When you get at the liking of the finish, stop smoothing it; do not interfere with it more than necessary, for you are likely to spoil.

7. Allow Proper Drying Time:

Never rush the drying process. Don’t apply the next layer until the first has dried completely, and ensure that the finished plaster cures.

8. Ensure Proper Ventilation:

Proper ventilation facilitates even drying of the plaster and will prevent condensation or the growth of mold.

By strictly following these best practices and knowing the thicknesses of plasters, you must successfully produce a perfect finish for interior and exterior plastering work.

FAQs about Plastering

What thickness should a plaster wall have?
It is standard to use 12 mm for internal walls. Weather resistance is often ensured by using 15–20 mm for the walls outside the house.
For how long do you need the plaster to stand before painting it?
After applying cement plaster, it is necessary to wait for at least 7 days, followed by another 10–14 days for drying before painting.
What kind of plaster should I use in a damp location?
You may fix it up by using plaster with a waterproof coat or using specially designed gypsum boards indoors.
Can you use plaster to cover painted walls?
No, plaster is not likely to stick properly on a surface that has been painted. The paint has to come off or should be covered with a protective layer.
What is causing my plaster to crack?
They can occur due to the material drying too fast, poor construction, incorrect mix, or a lack of proper curing.
Should cement plaster be preferred instead of gypsum plaster?
Compared to other materials, gypsum has a superior look and installs smoothly. Cement is popular for outdoor and wet areas due to its hardiness.
How does one measure plastering?
Plastering is measured according to the size in square meters, and the cost is figured out per unit area.
Am I able to glue drywall onto another surface?
However, there must be an adhesive to make sure the pieces are joined.