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Venetian plaster (also known as polished plaster or polished render) is made from limestone, marble dust, calcium carbonate and water, which results in a high-quality finish with a polished marble appearance. It has a long history but has recently grown in popularity again, mainly due to its appearance in the 2019 TV series The Block, where it was awarded the winning room.

Continue reading to learn more about Venetian plaster or polished render.

What is Venetian Plaster?

Venetian plaster is a high-quality finish used on residential and commercial properties. Its stylish polished marble appearance instantly adds elegance and luxury to any room.

It consists of a putty made of fired limestone, marble dust, calcium carbonate and water. When the mixture is applied to surfaces and exposed to carbon dioxide, it transforms back to limestone.

Venetian plaster has been around since ancient Greek and Egyptian times and was especially popular during the Renaissance when artisans used a mixture of lime, pigments and marble dust on ceilings and walls for a textured finish.
It has been making a comeback in recent years due to its timeless appeal and beautiful aesthetic. The techniques used today are very similar to those used in ancient times. However, modern plasters are stronger due to the addition of natural minerals and resins.

Appearance of Venetian Plaster

Venetian plaster has a unique appearance. The combination of natural light and plaster creates an almost iridescent light that breathes life into a space. Depending on your preferences, the finish can be smooth, textured, high-gloss, marble, or metallic. It adds elegance, style, and luxury to any room and makes the space stand out.

What is the Difference Between Traditional Plaster and Venetian Plaster?

The main difference between traditional plaster and Venetian plaster is that traditional plaster is gypsum-based and single-coloured, resulting in a matte finish. In contrast, Venetian plaster is lime-based and available in multiple colours, resulting in a smooth, polished finish.

Benefits of Venetian Plaster

The benefits of Venetian plaster include:

  • Eco-friendly: Venetian plaster is eco-friendly as it is made of natural materials and emits zero Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). It also absorbs carbon dioxide, which makes the air cleaner.
  • Various finishes: Venetian plaster is fully customisable, with different colours and finishes available to suit all design needs and preferences.
  • Durable: There’s a reason why Venetian plaster has been used for hundreds of years, and that’s due to its durability. It can withstand minor impacts, and because there is no grout, there is no risk of mould forming.
  • Low Maintenance: Venetian plaster is incredibly easy to maintain. All you need is a little water and soap to clean it every now and then. You don’t have to worry about repainting over it, as Venetian plaster is incredibly durable.
  • Versatile: Venetian plaster can be used on walls, ceilings, over brick, on wooden surfaces and over tiles.
  • Elegant: Applying Venetian plaster to any surface instantly transforms the room into an elegant and luxurious space.
  • Covers up imperfections: The application of Venetian plaster can cover up minor imperfections on surfaces.
  • Breathable: Venetian plaster is incredibly breathable and doesn’t hold moisture, making it suitable for humid environments like the bathroom. It is also resistant to mould and mildew.

Disadvantages of Venetian Plaster

The disadvantages of Venetian plaster include:

  • Pricey: Venetian plaster is more expensive than the average plaster or paint job, as it is a niche craft, and you’ll need a professional to apply it.
  • Can’t be DIY: For the best results, it’s a good idea to hire a professional to apply the Venetian plaster and give you the perfect finish.
  • Can be scratched: Venetian plaster can be scratched by objects.
  • Time-consuming application: The application can be time-consuming as several layers are required and drying time must also be considered.
  • Difficult to repair: While minor damage can be fixed relatively easily, more extensive damage to Venetian plaster means that the plaster may need to be removed, fixed and then reapplied, which is costly and time-consuming.

Application of Venetian Plaster

Venetian plaster can be applied in the following ways:

  1. Prepare the surface: Clean the wall and cover all holes with plastic putty.
  2. Primer: Cover the wall with white plastic primer paint.
  3. Base coat: Using a trowel, apply the base coat of the Venetian primer as thickly as possible.
  4. Application: Use a spatula to apply the Venetian plaster to the surface of a wall, working downwards, sidewards, and diagonally. Apply three different layers.
  5. Shine: Using a dry trowel, carefully rub the Venetian plaster to warm it and get the characteristic shine.
  6. Wax: Apply a protective beeswax seal using a cloth to protect the Venetian plaster.

At Sydney Cement Rendering, we take pride in being Sydney’s trusted rendering experts. We provide our customers with the highest quality rendering services. Contact us at 0402 704 984 or visit our website: https://sydneycementrendering.com/ to find out more about what we offer!