Tadelakt Render/Plaster
Tadelakt render/plaster is a water-resistant lime render/plaster type that was created in Morocco. It is closely related to microcement and Venetian plaster, although there are differences between them.
Thanks to its excellent water-resistant properties, tadelakt is mainly used in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries. It is the perfect mix of historic render solutions and modern interior design that is steadily growing in popularity. Its luxurious and elegant appearance makes it an ideal design choice for homes, spas and resorts.
Continue reading to learn more about tadelkt.
What is Tadelakt?
Tadelakt (Moroccan plaster) is a type of lime render/plaster that was invented in Morocco during the 11th century. It is made up of lime, water and marble dust. The word ‘tadelakt’ means ‘to rub’ or ‘to knead’ in reference to the way it is applied. Its watertight hydraulic finish makes it the ideal design option for bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.
Once a best-kept secret, tadelakt is becoming increasingly popular thanks to its appearance on home design shows and as more people become aware of its elegant appearance and functional properties.
Despite its ultra-contemporary appearance, tadelakt has been around for centuries and is a perfect blend of historical rendering, plastering techniques, and modern design.
The Benefits of Tadelakt
The benefits of tadelakt include:
- Waterproof: Tadelakt is naturally water-repellent. There is little to no chance of moisture entering the walls. It is made waterproof due to its natural materials and its application method.
- Aesthetic appeal: Using tadelakt on surfaces results in a smooth, polished finish that looks like marble. It is stylish and elegant and can also be tinted with different colours to suit all design preferences.
- Eco-friendly: Tadelakt is environmentally friendly as it is made from natural materials which are sustainably sourced. It is also biodegradable and recyclable.
- Safe: Its lime-based materials give tadelakt natural antibacterial properties.Its water resistance and breathability also prevent the growth of mould and fungi, making it a safe indoor design option.
- Easy maintenance: Tadelakt is easy to maintain. All it requires is a regular wipe with a cloth. Use a damp cloth with mild soap or a natural black bar for a deeper clean.Using a black soap bar helps to reinforce its water water-repellent properties.
- Available in different shades and tints: Tadelakt can be tinted with various colours ranging from neutral, natural-looking shades to bright colours. Whether you want your room to look timeless and elegant or prefer it to stand out with pops of colour, there will always be a design option that will work for you and your home.
- No grout: Tadelakt eliminates the need for any grout. Grout (that space between tiles) has become a much-hated design feature of bathrooms and laundries, thanks to all the dust and dirt that accumulates over time.
Disadvantages of Tadelakt
The disadvantages of tadelakt include:
- Labour-intensive: Applying tadelakt is a labour-intensive method that might intimidate many people.For the best outcome, we recommend hiring professionals to do the job for you. While that can be costly, it means that your tadelakt will look good and last a long time, saving you money in the long run.
- More expensive option: Due to its labour-intensive process, tadelakt can be more expensive than other rendering or plastering options.
- Can’t patch it up: If the tadelakt becomes damaged, it is difficult to repair one small patch of the wall, and the whole thing may have to be replaced, depending on how severe the damage is.
- Prone to chipping: Tadelakt isn’t as strong as other render types, especially cement, and can chip over time. Avoid leaning heavy or sharp items against tadelakt surfaces.
How Does Tadelakt Work?
Tadelakt requires at least six coats to be effective. Clean and prepare the surface before applying the tadelakt mixture. Once the lime render/plaster layers have been applied to the surface, it is polished with a Moroccan special polishing stone or a stainless steel trowel.
Once it is smooth and polished to perfection, black olive oil soap is rubbed on the surface to make it extra water-repellent. After the soap is rubbed onto the surface, it reacts with the lime and forms calcium stearate.
Tadelakt’s unique application method is what sets it apart from other rendering and plastering types.
Where Can Tadelakt Be Applied?
Tadelakt can be used in a wide variety of ways, including:
- Interior walls
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundries
- Restaurants
- Resorts
- Spas and wellness centres
- Sinks
- Bathtubs
- Fireplaces
- Shelving
- Pools
- Spas
- Wet and steam rooms
- Seats
- Backsplashes
- Benchtops
- Feature walls
However, It is not recommended to be used on floors, as tadelakt can easily become scratched.
Tadelakt Finishes
Tadelakt is versatile and can be tinted in various colours to suit all design preferences. It is also available in different finishes, including:
- High gloss finish: Perhaps the most popular finish. It results in a smooth, reflective design.
- Lustre finish: Slight glow or sheen that reflects in soft light.
- Smooth finish: Used for rustic-looking designs. Results in a matte, velvety finish.
If you want to learn more about the fascinating tadelakt, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
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!