Plastering a metal surface may seem difficult, but it is completely possible if you take the proper approach. For a smooth and durable finish, whether you’re working on a new build or renovation project, understanding how to properly prepare and plaster metal surfaces is crucial.
The procedure is a little more involved than standard wall plastering. Plaster needs to be carefully prepared on metal surfaces to ensure that it adheres well and doesn’t peel or crack over time. A robust and long-lasting plaster coating that endures over time can be achieved by being aware of the materials and methods required.
In order to ensure that you achieve the best results when plastering metal surfaces, this guide will take you through all the necessary steps, from surface preparation to the final coat.
- Plastering metal
- Preparing metal for plastering
- Mechanical surface cleaning
- Surface degreasing
- Which mesh to choose for metal surfaces and plaster
- Plastering technology
- Method 1: plastering on a mesh
- Method 2: plaster over putty and mesh
- Method 3: dry plastering using gypsum board
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Plastering metal
This kind of treatment is applied to a steel element (columns, load-bearing structures) or metal base in order to produce an aesthetically pleasing, smooth surface for decorative finishing.
The procedure guarantees the coating’s longevity and the finish’s aesthetic preservation over time. Chips and deformations can be aligned with the aid of a grid. An overlay of this kind of material enhances the room’s ability to block heat and dampen sound.
- stage-by-stage preparation of the coating is mandatory;
- to increase the adhesion of the mortar layer to the metal, it is necessary to install a grid;
- reinforcement of joints, places of adjoining metal elements to concrete, brick surfaces is required;
- a waterproof impregnation is required to protect against water, steam;
- it is necessary to level the base, eliminate irregularities, joints.
Standard cement, lime cement, clay, or decorative finishing plasters are used in the work. The starting plasters will need to be painted using acrylic or water-based paint compounds.
Painting is not necessary for finishing created with decorative mixtures because the composition already contains pigments, colored glass, mica particles, and other fillers. The composition is chosen based on the room type (living room, hallway, bathroom), the intended use (exterior or interior decoration), and the t.d.
Preparing metal for plastering
It is essential to finish construction, install and fix partitions, door and window frames, ventilation systems, and conceal electrical wiring before plastering metal bases.
- cleaning the base;
- degreasing the metal base;
- priming to prevent corrosion.
- mechanical;
- using chemicals;
- heat treatment.
- alkaline;
- acid;
- phosphating;
- using etching;
- oxidation.
Manufacturers create specific solutions to remove old metal surface finishing materials.
Mechanical surface cleaning
- steel brushes;
- a grinding machine with brush or abrasive attachments;
- sandblasting equipment.
When remodeling apartments, a steel brush or sander is an easy way to clean surfaces. Dust, dyes, and putty are eliminated during the metal processing process. A dry or wet method is used to clean up construction dust after the job is finished. Metal bases are mechanically cleaned in dry air rooms; condensation is not permitted.
Surface degreasing
Greasing the base is a prerequisite for plastering. White spirit, metal removers, and gasoline are used to treat new, unused steel surfaces. A primer mixture is applied to the surface to stop corrosion.
Alkaline solutions containing 10% or more surfactants are effective in eliminating traces of oily liquids. The ideal ratio is 0.5% OP-7 powder and 10% sodium solution (10 g of substance needed for every liter of water). A 3% hydrochloric acid solution is used to eliminate any traces of soot, and the residue is then cleaned away with pure water. A unique modifier is used to remove the oxidized metal if the layer of rust is no thicker than 100 microns.
Plastering metal surfaces can be challenging, but a smooth and long-lasting finish can be achieved with the correct planning and supplies. The most important procedures are cleaning the metal completely, using a bonding agent to make sure the plaster sticks, and selecting the appropriate kind of plaster that is made to be used on metal. Plastering metal surfaces is a skill that can be successfully acquired by anyone, whether they are working on a professional renovation or a do-it-yourself project.
Which mesh to choose for metal surfaces and plaster
Because metal bases are smooth and don’t adhere well enough to plaster, you need to reinforce them beforehand. When the mesh is installed in close proximity to the base, a plaster layer strengthens the finish and increases its resistance to cracks and mechanical damage.
The work involves the use of specialized metal meshes for plastering. Rabitz should not be used on curved bases due to the possibility of the wire cells on the canvas shifting. On uneven surfaces, the material is difficult to stretch. For plaster composition applications requiring a thick layer, Rabitsa can be applied to level surfaces.
A masonry mesh with a maximum cell size of 50 mm is advised in certain circumstances. This fabric works well for polishing the pool bowl’s metal surfaces before adding decorative tiles to the front. Two different kinds of mesh can be used as reinforcement to fortify the pool’s base.
- The metal surface of the structure is degreased.
- The masonry mesh is applied to the base.
- The surface is primed with a concentrated mixture for metal. Purified sand is added to the composition.
- Then putty is applied to the surface using the spray method.
- Reinforcement is carried out with sheets for plastering with cells measuring 10 * 10 mm, the material is fixed on the masonry mesh.
- A primer is applied to the plaster mesh.
- It is necessary to keep the surface damp for 1 week for the natural hardening of the plaster solution (without drying).
- Then the pool is filled with water, the base is kept under load for several days.
- After draining the water, you can start facing work on the plaster layer.
It is advised to strengthen the beams by fastening the rods in various ways with clamps. Spot welding is a popular method for attaching clamps and drilling holes. The sections for fixation are spaced approximately 25–20 cm apart.
Fiberglass sheets can be used as reinforcement in small metal areas by applying a thin layer of plaster there. The sheets are then fixed with an overlap to the finishing material.
Plastering technology
- processing on a mesh;
- application of mortar on putty and a metal mesh;
- using gypsum board.
Method 1: plastering on a mesh
Plastering a grid is comparable to plastering a surface normally.
The coating is made by applying multiple layers of solution with varying compositions one after the other, as follows:
- For spraying, a liquid consistency product is used with the addition of felt fibrous compounds and asbestos to increase adhesion characteristics and increase the strength of the reinforcement layer. Additives are used only in the spray solution.
- For basic processing, standard density soil is used.
- A covering layer is necessary before decorative plastering and is done with a solution with or without fine sand.
Method 2: plaster over putty and mesh
In order to create a solid base, plaster is applied over steel mesh and putty. Special automotive putty is used in the project. Though more dependable, the process necessitates extensive preparation.
- a putty layer is applied to the cleaned surface;
- a grooved surface texture is formed with a spatula;
- tile adhesive is applied to the prepared base;
- if necessary, the base is reinforced with a mesh cloth, which is then treated with an adhesive composition;
- the metal is plastered.
Method 3: dry plastering using gypsum board
Sheet dry plaster is a suitable covering for metal beams and stair structures. Following the preparatory work, profiles or bars are used to create a frame that is fastened to the ceiling or walls. Self-tapping screws are used to secure gypsum boards to the frame. After that, plastering is done as usual. Plastering gypsum board sheets is a simple process that even beginners can perform.
| Step | Description |
| 1. Prepare the Metal Surface | Clean the metal to remove any rust, dirt, or grease. Use a wire brush or sandpaper for rust, and a degreaser for oils. |
| 2. Apply a Primer | Coat the metal with a metal primer to improve adhesion. Allow it to dry completely before moving to the next step. |
| 3. Mix the Plaster | Prepare the plaster according to the manufacturer"s instructions. Make sure it"s smooth and lump-free. |
| 4. Apply the Plaster | Using a trowel, apply the plaster in thin, even layers. Start with a base coat and let it dry before adding additional layers. |
| 5. Smooth and Finish | Once the final layer is applied, smooth the surface with a wet trowel or sponge. Allow the plaster to cure properly. |
Plastering metal surfaces may appear difficult, but it is entirely doable with the appropriate technique. The preparation is crucial, including properly cleaning the metal, applying the appropriate primer, and selecting the proper plaster mix intended for metal adhesion.
Plastering becomes a simple process after the surface has been prepared. Just take your time to guarantee a smooth finish and even coverage. Remember to give each layer enough time to dry in order to prevent problems later.
These instructions can help you give metal surfaces a long-lasting and attractive finish. Understanding how to apply plaster to metal gives you more creative freedom when working on projects, whether it’s for aesthetic purposes or a functional necessity.
