Venetian plaster has been around for quite a while, with the earliest reported mention of the construction material dating to 1473 A.D. In Italy, it is referred to as “stucco,” with hardware stores and paint shops stocking the material and the tools it needs. Actual Venetian plaster is made from a limestone base, meant to replicate Scagliola, an Italian plastering method that produces a substance resembling natural marble.
Given Venetian plaster’s quality and fame, many imitations try to pass off as the real thing. If you have Venetian plaster in your home, you’re likely wondering how long it will last and what you can do to keep it in good shape for as long as possible. Here’s what you need to know:
Interior Venetian Plaster
The good news is that Venetian plaster lasts centuries, especially when taken care of properly. Italy is known for its rich architecture and historic buildings made of Venetian plaster, most of which continue to be in good condition today. It continues to be the Italians’ first choice of wall and ceiling finish, which is a testament to its longevity.
If you have Venetian plaster inside your home, it will last a very long time, from decades to hundreds of years. Since it isn’t exposed to the elements and is made of Italian limestone and Dolomitic marble, you won’t have much to worry about preserving it.
Exterior Venetian Plaster
The same applies to Venetian plastering placed on your home’s exterior. It will last for centuries, although due to current environmental conditions like industrial pollution and acid rain, you may need to redo your Venetian plastering from time to time. As observed in older Italian buildings, the exterior base plaster is sturdy enough to withstand hundreds of years, but the colored Venetian plaster exterior layer will deteriorate under harsher conditions. For this reason, you’ll want to redo your exterior Venetian plaster once in a while.
The Benefits of Venetian Plaster
Venetian plaster is an excellent material to use in your home, whether for your interior or exterior. Here are some of its many benefits:
1. It’s Versatile
Venetian plaster is versatile, which means you can apply it to nearly any surface. You can transform pre-existing walls into structures that look sophisticated and classy. Venetian plaster is also helpful in patching old stone, bricks, wood, drywall, and other similar materials.
2. It’s Long-Lasting
One of Venetian plaster’s top benefits is that it lasts a very long time, making it highly durable. Its coating makes it have a hard, rock-like substance once dried, allowing it to endure small movements and impact. As a result, it lasts much longer than other paint finishes.
3. It’s Easy to Maintain
Another perk of Venetian plastering is that it is low maintenance. Since it is mixed with different pigments, it survives many years without fading, which means you’ll spend less time and money on repainting it.
4. It’s Environmentally Friendly
Lastly, Venetian plastering is one of the more eco-friendly options since it uses all-natural materials without compromising quality. It’s sturdy, versatile, and long-lasting while providing improved air quality. The lime found in Venetian plastering inhibits the growth of mold and other fungi, adding more protective layers to your home that help the wall remain in good shape for several years.
Conclusion
Venetian plaster is one of the more elegant and cost-effective finishes to add to your home. It outlives coats of paint or faux painting by far, giving your home a sophisticated look without investing too much into its maintenance. By opting for Venetian plaster in your home, you’ll enjoy a durable finish you won’t have to worry about redoing over and over again.
One Stop Plastering offers the best residential and commercial Venetian plastering. Our services include interior and exterior plaster and stucco, window replacement and patching, concrete and plaster walls. Call us today at 415-464-9400 for your free bid!
