Combined silicone-silicate plasters are becoming popular nowadays. The classic representative of such material is 2729 Tetracem with photocatalytic effect. It is a plaster reinforced with aramid fibres (i.e. a type of polyamide) and with a higher proportion of additives. The result is a material with superior properties. This makes the plaster naturally resistant to algae, mould and pollution. It also has high vapour permeability, water repellency and elasticity. In addition, it keeps walls dry with minimal risk of cracks. It is suitable for facades with mineral and concrete surfaces or for renovation of plaster systems. Builders particularly appreciate the fact that it is easy to apply. It is available in a wide range of colours and textures. Anyone who wants a facade to be visually and mechanically stable for a long time will be happy to use this material.
One of the first plasters we will introduce is a mineral plaster based on cement and lime hydrate, which makes it an environmentally friendly option. It is a one-component, improved and vapour-permeable plaster that can also be used in the composition of the ETICS insulation system. Mineral plaster also tolerates temperature changes well and is resistant to mould. It is also interesting because it can be used to create textured surfaces, for example by grooving.
Silicone plaster has now virtually replaced acrylic plaster. It is similar in price but has the properties of premium plaster materials. Thus, silicone plaster is one of the highest quality materials for plastering interior as well as exterior walls. Its main properties include flexibility, vapour permeability and water repellency. It is even very resistant to staining, which is very important in some locations today. Silicone plaster contains acrylic dispersions and silicone emulsions.
We can say that silicate plaster is closer to mineral rather than silicone. Its main binder is water glass. This "chemically built" plaster has a high vapour permeability, which makes it suitable for use with insulation systems. It is very stable, and this also applies to the pigments or colour stability. As silicate plaster has a higher pH, it is naturally more resistant to micro-organisms. On the other hand, this plaster requires a better quality substrate, especially in terms of moisture, otherwise there is a risk of staining. It is also a plaster that is a little more demanding to work with, and so requires skilled hands and more practice. Silicate plasters are very often used in the restoration of historic buildings, or damp masonry, etc. Cemix offers a wide range of colours and textures of these plasters.
As far as price is concerned, acrylic plaster is the best. It is based on an acrylic dispersion, silica sand and coloured pigments. It is also suitable for interior use. Its high water repellency and washability are among its most positive features. However, because it has poorer vapour permeability, it is not suitable for insulation systems. It is very rarely used today, but it must be included in the list of plaster types.