Selecting the appropriate putty for surface finishing can significantly impact the caliber of your work. Gypsum and polymer putty are two common choices, each with a unique set of benefits and applications. Making the ideal decision for your project can be facilitated by being aware of their distinctions.
Gypsum putty is renowned for being inexpensive and simple to use. It’s a fantastic choice for smoothing out surfaces and caulking tiny cracks prior to painting. Gypsum is a favorite among do-it-yourselfers because it sands easily and dries quickly. However, because it can absorb moisture and lose its effectiveness, it’s not the best option for high humidity areas.
Conversely, polymer putty provides increased durability and flexibility. Compared to gypsum putty, it can withstand temperature fluctuations and is moisture-resistant. Because of this, it can be used in both indoor and outdoor settings. Additionally, polymer putty has a tendency to be more resilient to cracking, making it a popular choice for larger repairs or more demanding circumstances.
The decision between polymer putty and gypsum truly comes down to your individual requirements. Gypsum may be ideal if you’re working on a project in a dry, controlled environment. However, polymer putty might be a better option for damp or areas that need more durability. By being aware of these variations, you can choose the best product for a smoother, more durable finish.
- Features and characteristics
- Gypsum putty
- Polymer putty
- Comparison of gypsum and polymer putties – which is better
- Which putty and in which case is better to choose
- Wooden surfaces
- Drywall
- Concrete
- Putty application technique
- 1 – mixing the solution
- 2 – applying the solution
- 3 – grouting the surface
- Nuances of puttying the base for different purposes
- Video on the topic
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- Gypsum putty and polymer
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Features and characteristics
Putties are made by manufacturers according to the type of filler used.
- cement;
- polymer;
- gypsum.
There are differences in terms of technical attributes, application guidelines, and base materials for processing.
Gypsum putty
- gypsum or alabaster;
- mineral components as fillers (marble powder, quartz sand);
- water-soluble polymers.
Fillers impart a slightly golden tone and white tone to the composition. Producers package finishing material in 20–25 kg quantities. The powder is diluted with water to the appropriate consistency per the instructions prior to application. Putties are made by certain manufacturers into a pasty mass and packaged in plastic.
Because gypsum compositions harden in 30 to 40 minutes, the solution is prepared in small amounts when working with them. Packaged dry powder is kept fresh for a minimum of a year. The putty type’s high vapor permeability is an advantage. The material is not appropriate for finishing bathrooms, kitchens, or toilets; instead, it is advised for processing rooms with normal air humidity.
- gypsum plasterboard floors;
- wood;
- brickwork;
- concrete.
- elimination of cracks, chips;
- masking of joint areas;
- leveling the surface for subsequent painting or wallpapering;
- creation of stucco on ceilings;
- arrangement of arched structures, columns or cornices.
The substance is used to create a smooth, even base and has tiny fractions in it. Plasticizers are also used in the composition to give it an elastic consistency. The last finishing touch is applied using the finishing mixture. Paint or wallpaper paste can be applied to the prepared surface.
Polymer putty
- acrylic, latex mass or polymer cement;
- fine-grained mineral components.
Because the polymer composition has high adhesion characteristics, it can be applied to a gypsum base. The mixture can be applied on top of plastered surfaces, chipboards, concrete, gypsum plasterboards, and plywood sheets. Metal surfaces cannot be treated with this product.
The polymer composition is applied to the surface after it has been treated and used for finishing, such as painting or wallpapering. The material is appropriate for finishing bathrooms and toilets, and the product is resistant to high humidity. The tone of the composition is uniformly white. The mixture is made-to-order and packaged in plastic containers. It is not necessary to dilute the material with water in order to complete the task. The mass has a two to three day shelf life after opening the package.
When making this kind of putty at home, you use a combination of dry powder and water; the manufacturer specifies the ratios of the ingredients on the label. The dry mixes are made into 20–25 kg bags. Acrylic or polymer cement-based mixtures are used to finish external surfaces; latex mass is not appropriate for finishing facades because it will not withstand changes in temperature or precipitation.
The material’s advantages include resistance to chemicals, high adhesion, lack of strong odor and shrinkage, and environmental friendliness.
For at least ten hours, the prepared solution is kept in storage. The average amount of polymer material used per square meter is 1.4 kg.
Comparison of gypsum and polymer putties – which is better
Technical characteristics of polymer putty and gypsum putty can be compared to determine their differences.
- the vapor permeability of gypsum mixtures is high, polymer materials have low vapor permeability;
- the gypsum base has a low moisture resistance index, polymer products are recommended for bathrooms and toilets;
- gypsum putty is more flexible;
- gypsum solutions are environmentally friendly, polymer putties contain chemical components;
- the price of polymer mixtures is higher than gypsum;
- gypsum mixtures have a slight yellowish tint, polymer materials are distinguished by an even white tone;
- the strength indicators of the polymer composition are greater than gypsum;
- gypsum coating can withstand high temperatures (up to + 800 ° C), unlike polymer materials that are not resistant to these environmental conditions.
Which putty and in which case is better to choose
After considering the base material, experts advise deciding whether gypsum or polymer putty is superior.
- wood;
- plasterboard;
- concrete.
Wooden surfaces
It is suggested to use polymer putty to finish wooden bases. In contrast to gypsum, the material sticks well to chipboards and plywood sheets. To extend the shelf life of the finish, the surfaces must be treated with impregnations having antiseptic qualities prior to applying the putty. Because polymer compositions are elastic, they can fill in cracks and holes and produce a level base.
Drywall
It is advised to level the base of plasterboard floors in offices and apartments using a gypsum mixture before finishing the floor. Due to its smooth structure, drywall doesn’t need a putty foundation. Nevertheless, the areas where the sheet materials are attached must be sealed off before the coating is completed.
The joints are filled with putty after being opened at a 45° angle. Moisture-resistant drywall, which is used to decorate bathrooms and kitchens, can be processed using polymer products.
Concrete
Various putty mixtures are used to level concrete ceilings and wall panels. Nonetheless, consideration must be given to the property’s features (temperature, air humidity level). Polymer products are used when finishing areas with high humidity levels.
Living rooms and hallways with low humidity are treated with leveling compounds based on gypsum. For finishing facade surfaces, only acrylic-based polymer compounds are utilized because they are resistant to mechanical damage and precipitation.
Knowing the main distinctions between polymer putty and gypsum can help you make an informed decision when choosing between the two for your project. Gypsum putty is a common option for indoor repairs because of its quick drying time and simplicity of use. Conversely, polymer putty provides more elasticity and toughness, particularly in areas that move around a lot or get wet. This post will explain each type’s functions, ideal uses, and which might be a better fit for your particular requirements.
Putty application technique
After priming, applying antiseptic, and cleaning the surface of any remaining materials, the solution is applied.
- solution preparation;
- mixture application;
- surface grouting.
A container for combining the ingredients, an electric drill with an attachment, a paint float, a trowel, a set of spatulas, and sandpaper sheets are needed for the task.
1 – mixing the solution
The solution must first be prepared; the amounts for various compositions may vary. The parameters are stated on the packaging by the manufacturers. The water in the container is gradually filled with powder, and the mixture is stirred by hand. Once a thick consistency is reached, mixing is done with an electric drill fitted with a mixer attachment.
The polymer solution is mixed and then infused for ten to fifteen minutes. After three minutes, the gypsum composition is mixed again, and the product is ready for application without infusion.
2 – applying the solution
Using a broad spatula, the gypsum-based solution is applied to the wall panels. It is advised to use a reinforcing mesh to create an even layer when finishing the ceiling. The base coat can be as thick as 5 mm, and the finishing layer shouldn’t be thicker than 3 mm.
Because of the thicker consistency of the polymer composition, application is done with a medium-sized spatula. A denser coating will cause the composition to be distributed unevenly and deform. The layer should be up to 3 mm thick. Up to 1 mm of finishing coat thickness is required. The spatula needs to be held at a level angle to the surface while working. Applying mass requires movements that are made from the bottom up.
3 – grouting the surface
To be carried out in four to six hours. Small fractions of sandpaper or a paintbrush are used for the task. Light, pressure-free movements are necessary to avoid damaging the finishing material. Grinding is done with equal pressure and circular motions.
Nuances of puttying the base for different purposes
- Surfaces for wallpapering are treated with 3 layers of base solution.
- Wall panels, ceilings, slopes for painting are treated with 2 layers of base solution, a layer of fiberglass and finally 3 layers of finishing material.
- Before applying a decorative coating with a rough texture, 2 base layers are required, fixing a thin reinforcing mesh and a base coat on top.
- When finishing with decorative materials with a fine texture, 2 base layers, a reinforcing mesh and 3 finishing coats are required.
- When preparing plasterboard ceilings for painting, it will be necessary to seal the seams and apply 3 finishing layers.
- For finishing the loggia, facade surfaces, basements, it will be necessary to apply 3 layers of a universal composition for facades.
Gypsum Putty | Polymer Putty |
Quick drying | Slower drying |
Easy to sand | Requires more effort to sand |
Less flexible | More flexible |
Best for indoor use | Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use |
Lower cost | Higher cost |
Can crack over time | Less prone to cracking |
It’s evident that each polymer putty and gypsum has advantages of its own when choosing between the two. Gypsum putty is a good option for do-it-yourself projects and temporary repairs because of its reputation for being inexpensive and user-friendly. It sticks well to many surfaces, dries quickly, and sands easily. However, because it is less resilient to moisture and temperature changes, it is best used indoors.
Conversely, polymer putty provides increased flexibility and durability, making it especially helpful in more demanding applications. It is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use because it is resistant to water and temperature changes. Additionally, this kind of putty has a tendency to be more adaptable and easier to apply to a larger variety of surfaces.
The decision between polymer putty and gypsum ultimately boils down to your individual requirements. Gypsum putty can be your best option if you’re working on a straightforward indoor project and need something that’s affordable and simple to work with. Polymer putty is the best option for projects that need for extra durability or for more difficult environments. Gaining an understanding of these distinctions will enable you to decide wisely and complete your project with the greatest outcomes.