Venetian plaster vs microcement
DESIGN FEATURE
No Waves Render Owner and Director Jarryd Inns explores how to use venetian plaster and microcement to bring your coastal home to life.
What is venetian plaster?
Venetian plaster is a putty-like mixture typically made from crushed limestone and powdered marble. It can be applied in many ways, from traditional polished finish through to undulated, vein textures. The product can be tinted to almost any colour and shade — from dark moody blacks to strong elegant whites, the possibilities for its finish are endless.
What is microcement?
Microcement is a wet blend of cement and polymer aggregates, designed to give the look of cement or venetian plaster, only with more flexibility and versatility than both these methods. Using an epoxy or acrylic resin based formula for strength, the product is typically sealed to create a 100% waterproof finish.
Benefits of venetian plaster
Venetian plaster is derived from natural minerals and even once dry, maintains a stable breathability over time. The breathable product purifies moisture levels in the air creating a resistance to the formation of mould and bacteria.
Benefits of microcement
Microcement is a strong and durable product that gives the illusion of depth and movement of natural stone and cement finishes in just a few millimetres of thickness. Its seamless finish can go over most substrates including existing tiles, which is a huge time and mess saver in bathroom renovations. The product’s ability to achieve 100% waterproofing makes it great in all wet area walls and floors, even kitchen splashbacks and rangehoods.
Which product to choose
The easiest way to decide between venetian plaster and microcement is understanding the requirements of the area.
If the walls are purely for decoration, and are considered low traffic areas (meaning they should only be copping fingerprints and the odd wipe down) venetian plaster is usually the better option. It gives a more natural finish than microcement and in my opinion is more of a showstopper.
However, if it is strength and durability you are after, microcement is going to be the better option. Its sealers make it waterproof and scratch resistant making it ideal for floors, benchtops and shower recesses.
It can be tinted to most colours, and is always sanded between coats to ensure a beautifully smooth finish is achieved.
About No Waves Render
No Waves Render is a venetian plaster and microcement company based on the Gold Coast since 2016. With over 18 years’ experience in the trade, Owner and Director Jarryd Inns, together with his team, bring a wealth of knowledge to the craft. Visit nowavesrender.com for more information.
Design feature photographer - Alyne Media
