Plaster can consist of cement, sand or gypsum.
Plaster covers the walls and even ceilings of many homes and commercial buildings. Aside from the aesthetic value they provide by covering up the beams and other construction materials, plaster can also have environmental value. A strong plaster wall material can improve the energy efficiency of a home.
Types of Plaster
Before determining the energy efficiency of plaster, it helps to understand the different types of plaster. Gypsum plaster, also called plaster of Paris, contains calcium sulfate and is one of the most commonly used plasters. Lime plaster contains a combination of lime and sand. Cement plaster consists of portland cement and is also referred to as stucco. Though more commonly used outdoors, you can also use cement plaster indoors.
Choosing a Plaster
Any plaster, when properly applied, can improve the energy efficiency of your home. This results from the fact that plaster helps to insulate your home, keeping it warmer on cool days and cooler on warm days. Some plasters are also breathable, or able to transmit water vapor. This prevents rot, mold and mildew, and helps you to maintain strong indoor air quality, thereby reducing your need for air purification systems as well as heating and cooling units. Cement plaster serves this purpose especially well.
Additional Energy Efficiency
Plaster can help to improve your energy efficiency, but plaster along will not get the job done. To further improve the energy efficiency of your home, place a strong insulation product within the walls themselves. Many types of insulation exist, including fiberglass, cellulose, cellular glass and polystyrene. Each insulation has its pros and cons, but each can assist the plaster wall surfaces in improving the energy efficiency of your home.
Applying Plaster
Most commercial wall boards are comprised of plaster. For example, gypsum board and drywall consist of gypsum plaster. You can also purchase plaster at your local home improvement store and add plaster to your walls by hand. This process requires you to tack wood laths to your walls to the wall surface and apply the plaster in stages, but you can also have this done professionally if you have limited home improvement experience.
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