Plaster Diaries

“All drywall MUST be taped to a level 3 finish prior to plaster install,” is a bolden phrase that graces our estimates and contracts. While the term “plaster” primarily conjures visions of lathe and horsehair in your grandparent’s farmhouse, to many it’s important to note that since the 1940s this has changed, and lathe has been replaced with sheetrock panels. As the result, plaster has transitioned to a decorative finish and less of a structural facade.

From its aesthetic appeal to practical advantages, Tadelakt has quickly captured the attention of the world. With the start of a waterproof membrane followed by a natural chemical reaction that renders layers of plaster hydrophobic, the tactile surfaces of Tadelakt breath life into any space. The endless design options of the traditional Moroccan plaster have transfixed the world for centuries-though recently it has entered the mainstream and is no longer solely coveted by designers. But what exactly is Tadelakt? And why can't everyone stop talking about it?

Calcium Carbonate, or “lime” has a myriad of uses in our world. Its origins date back thousands of years, and we suspect that early cavemen broke off chunks of limestone around a fire pit and with the addition of water, the “quicklime” became hydrated lime or lime putty. The resulting binder was then mixed with an aggregate such as sand. During the drying stage, the mortar or plaster absorbs free carbon from the air and reverts to limestone. Since the inception of caveman time, this chemical compound has been integrated into air systems, wastewater management, agricultural development, and of course construction.

The only constant is change, and subsequently it’s only natural that new traditions are forged and lost arts are formed. Our New Age Artisans team has developed quite the penchant for the inherent qualities of craft and forgotten mediums; and we’ve constantly strived to document the journey throughout our trade tenure.