Frequently Asked Questions - Answered

What is the difference between Gypsum and Plaster ?

The term Gypsum is ofter incorrectly used in the building industry. In fact Gypsum is only the raw material from which plaster is made. Gypsum is a natural mineral which is mined in many countries around the world. It is placed into kilns to hydrate to drive out the moisture content and becomes plaster. Plaster is an extremely safe material as it is non-combustible, non-toxic and non-allergenic.

What reinforcement is used ?

The use of glass fibers as a reinforcement with plaster was  originally invented by ICI in England as a test medium for Glass Reinforced Concrete or GRC. ACI introduced the idea into Australia in 1973 where the product was further developed and put into production by local plaster companies. It stayed exclusively within Australia for approximately 15 years. Since then the process has spread thoughout the world. Fiberglass replaced the old reinforcements such as burlap, jute and sisal. These were much heavier, and as vegetable matter they would disintegrate with time, rot if wet and were eaten by rodents. Products produced with these old reinforcements also had a much poorer fire rating.

Does Plaster Burn ?

No. It is totally fireproof and furthermore it will not give off smoke in a fire. Plaster has a fire rating similar to concrete and is often used to protect steel beams in constructions.

Can plaster products be used outdoors ?

Plasterdesigns products are intended for internal use. They can only be used outdoors when they are completely sheltered or out of the direct weather. Plaster reinforced with glass can get wet occasionally without damage, but if repeatedly wet and dry, then like timber, it will deteriorate. Plasterboard ( a generic  product made of pressed gypsum between paper-card outer linings ) cannot get wet at all. This is not because of the plaster but because the paper-card outer linings loose strength when wet.

On what surfaces can plaster products be attached ?

The ideal surface for plaster products is a new unpained drywall or plaster / plasterboard surface. Where the surface has been painted then the paint should be removed or sanded to form a key where the plaster cement can bond. Wallpaper should be completely removed at the location of the new plasterwork before installation. Where new plaster products are being installed over tiles, marble, granite or materials such as stainless steel, then a thick acrylic type adhesive should be used.

What type of adhesives do we recommend ?

Plasterdesigns produces a specially formulated plaster cement which is suitable for use on drywall, plasterboard and brick walls, it is available in 20Kgs bags. Where new plaster products are being installed over tiles, marble, granite or materials such as stainless steel, then a thick acrylic type adhesive should be used.

Can screws be used to assist with the installation of plaster products.

Yes. We recommend the use of standard drywall screws with plaster products. Beware that any screws that are not galvanized or plated may rust with plaster. Screws are definitely preferred to nails.

What kind of filler should be used to fill screw holes and mitres ?

Again we recomment the Plasterdesigns specifically formulated plaster cement.

What kind of finishes will Plasterdesigns products accept ?

Plasterdesigns products will accept any acylic or oil-based paint finish. However, ALL plaster products should be primed before painting with a very thin oil based primer - undercoat. This soaks into the product to form a bond. Standard drywall primer is a thick acylic which is only designed to cover brown cardboard on the outside of plasterboard.

Are Plasterdesigns products stock items ?

Yes of course. We are so confident of our designs and, in order to provide the best possible service to our clients, we do hold products in stock. However, demand has been so great that the availability is subject to stock levels.

What size is the opening in the center of Plasterdesigns ceiling centers ?

All ceiling centers openings are 3" in diameter. This permits the use of ceiling centers with a standard 4" diameter electrical box.

Can a handyman install the ceiling centers ?

Yes. The installation process is quite simple. Plus, all Plasterdesigns Ceiling Centers come complete with the plaster cements, the screws and a step by step instruction guide as to how to install them.