In the repair and design of rooms, decorative plaster is often used. Venetian plaster is perhaps the most refined and prestigious option for wall decoration, which, in addition to aesthetic, also has valuable practical properties and looks modern at all times. Although it is Venetian plasters that are particularly chic, decorative wall coverings can be of other types - textured and structural, for example. At the same time, fillers are added to the standard stucco mixture: fibers, chips, granules, etc., which makes the surface embossed and adds volume to it.
Venetian decorative plaster (photo below) is a very special type of textured finish with unique characteristics, decorative properties and application technique. The choice of such a decor for the room indicates a great taste and a certain status of its owner.
History of Venetian Plaster
Many sources agree that this type of decoration comes from ancient Rome. Then marble was a very ordinary material for construction, and after its processing a large amount of dust and crumbs remained. Some entrepreneurial master, whose name was not preserved in history, came up with the idea of using these wastes for wall decoration, mixing them with water and limestone. This coating was resistant, fireproof and moisture resistant.
For some time, humanity has forgotten the recipe for such a finishing material as decorative plaster. Venetian stucco in the Renaissance gained new popularity in the city of the same name, thanks to which it received such a name. For the city on the water, such a finish was very relevant, since it had much less weight compared to the marble massif, and was not inferior to it in terms of decorativeness.
In the recipe of Venetian plaster, the main components remained the same: slaked lime, water and stone chips, but at the same time, natural coloring pigments extracted from plants and even animal blood began to be added to it. Stone dust could already be not necessarily marble, but also from some other valuable breeds: granite, malachite, onyx. It was on Venetian plaster that the famous Italian artists created their murals. Some of these works have survived to the present day, which indicates the wear resistance of this decorative plaster. Venetian stucco became widespread not only in Italy, but throughout Europe: with its help, churches and rich houses were decorated.
Modern Venetian Plaster Formulation
Time, of course, affected the composition of Venetian plaster, and the achievements of the modern chemical industry could not help but affect it. Dyes are now used artificial and much wider range, and slaked lime is replaced by polymers or add them additionally. Of course, such a coating can no longer be called classical Venetian stucco, just like absolutely environmentally friendly, but modern analogs also have advantages. Modern decorative coatings are not as demanding on the type of surface as natural ones, and are more plastic.
The advantages of Venetian plaster
Venetian plaster is a very strong and wear-resistant coating and lasts an average of about 15 years. The fact is that the surface of this decorative finish is saturated with carbon dioxide over time - it is naturally carbonized, a solid film of carbon is formed.
It is not difficult to take care of the surface finished with such plaster, as it can be wet-cleaned. With a certain moisture resistance, the coating retains vapor permeability, its environmental cleanliness allows the use of this finish for residential premises with almost no restrictions. But for outdoor work it is not used, since multiple temperature drops and precipitation will be fatal to her.
In addition to the advantages already listed, it is thought that, despite the changing fashion, decorative plaster will always be relevant. The Venetian style, in which it fits most organically, is distinguished by a special nobility.
The technique of applying Venetian plaster
Venetian stucco is a multilayer coating, and this is precisely its charm. Several transparent layers create depth, inner glow, completely magically refract light.
Application of decorative Venetian plaster is carried out according to a certain technology. First of all, you need to pay attention to the quality of the foundation. It should be clean, dry and perfectly even, otherwise all the flaws will not be hidden, but rather underlined. The number of layers, depending on the desired effect, can be from three to ten.
The first, the main layer is applied evenly, the subsequent ones are finishing. They are applied with a flexible spatula, randomly, with short strokes. Each layer must dry completely, and then it must be sanded before a subsequent coat is applied. Finishing is more convenient to carry out in small areas. You can apply layers that differ in shade, you get a very interesting texture.
The last layer - the finish - involves the application of wax. This serves as a protection against moisture, and also gives the finish a finished look. The protective layer may be updated from time to time.
Venetian stucco in the interior
In principle, this type of decoration will suit many styles, from classical to minimalism and hi-tech. The Venetian-style decorative stucco, which is distinguished by luxury and aristocracy, will perfectly emphasize. It will perfectly replace the wallpaper, and the choice of shades for this finish is the widest. Venetian plaster is universal: it is suitable for living rooms due to its decorative effect, for bedrooms, since it is environmentally friendly, for kitchens, as it allows wet cleaning, and even for bathrooms, because it is quite moisture resistant.
Manufacturers of decorative plaster in the market presented a wide selection. Positions itself as a brand that produces extremely safe products, the Parade brand. Decorative Venetian plaster is also present in their collection.
Disadvantages of Venetian Plaster
This is not to say that Venetian stucco is an affordable type of decoration. First of all, such a finish is a rather expensive pleasure, and the technology of its application is not simple and will require patience, thoroughness and a certain experience from the master with such a coating as decorative plaster. Venetian plaster, however, is worth it. This finish looks extremely impressive.