Make it work for you

POLISHED PLASTER Hygienic, seamless and beautiful, polished plaster is the hottest tiling alternative to hit style-savvy bathrooms

AERON’S CHOICE:

It may have been around since Egyptian times, but polished plaster is enjoying a resurgence, not least because it is grubby grout free! This surface is also easy to clean and is suitable for use on floors, walls and ceilings.

QIs all polished plaster the same?

No, there are various application techniques and ingredients, from traditional Moroccan Tadelakt and marble-based Venetian, to modern cementbased products. Some are 100% waterproof or can be waxed to repel water, while others are more textural, colour-led, extra durable, stainproof etc. Search for specialists online and explain what you are seeking design and performance-wise.

QWhat are the benefits? The seamless finish that can be achieved across surfaces is the big story here.

The look can be very sleek and contemporary, or more rustic for an earthy effect. Adding pigments provides customisable colour, and most types of polished plaster can be used inside showers and around the bath.

QHow is it applied? It involves building up thin layers of plaster and polishing to achieve a seamless finish. Venetian plaster is waxed if you need water protection. You could technically do it yourself, but it is probably best left to the professionals, especially if a watertight finish is essential.

QAre there any downsides? The surface the plaster is trowelled onto must be completely rigid, otherwise fissures may appear. Some polished plaster, notably Tadelakt, develops very fine hairline cracks in time, which is part of the appeal and won’t affect durability, but isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

CHOOSE POLISHED PLASTER FOR A GROUT-FREE, SMOOTH FINISH

“Every polished plaster installation is a unique piece of art designed especially for the homeowner

KAMIL PIASECKI, FOUNDER, RENDONE

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