Why Plaster Paint is the Ideal Choice for Architects and Designers in Commercial Projects

Whether you're transforming an office space or creating an inviting retail space, plaster paint can be a smart and effective choice: it’s durable, breathable, sustainable and visually pleasing. Perhaps most importantly, it also offers a water-repellent protective finish.

As a cost-effective and simple exterior solution, it can make your job easier, as well as allow your project to stand out. Let’s explore the benefits of using this multi-purpose paint in the world of commercial design.

What is Plaster Paint?

Plaster paint combines the classic charm of a plaster aesthetic with the benefits of modern paint technology. Designed to deliver a lightly textured finish, it’s ideal as a protective finish for Diathonite thermo-acoustic plasters as it prevents the absorption of rainwater.

However, its creative benefits don’t stop there. It can also be applied to flat surfaces, like drywall, to achieve the look of a stucco or cement finish with just the use of a paint roller.

Composition and Features

Made from natural ingredients, this paint is composed of potassium silicate, sandstone and natural pigments. This offers a distinctive texture with a matte finish, while high-quality pigments add vibrant, long-lasting colors to bring your vision to life.

Plaster paint is:

• Breathable

• Fiber-reinforced

• Water repellent

• Doesn’t create cracks

• High resistance to bad weather, UV rays

• Solvent-free  

• Easy to apply

Types of Plaster Paint

Other types of paints are often referred to as  “plaster paints” due to the textured effects they deliver. These include paints made from Venetian plaster, chalk and clay. They are purely decorative paints and are generally used for interior facades like bedrooms or living rooms. Given their low durability, these types of paint should not be used as a protective finish on Diathonite plasters. 

Benefits for Commercial Projects

Plaster paint brings numerous advantages to the table, making it an excellent choice for commercial settings. These include:

Durability and Longevity

One of the standout features for any commercial project is the paint’s durability. As a breathable, water-repellent paint, it can face off against the harshest conditions while protecting the building from water damage.

It also creates a robust surface that can withstand high traffic and extreme weather, which makes it ideal for busy areas. With proper care, it can last for years, offering excellent long-term value.

Surface Compatibility and Trade-Offs

Plaster paint can be applied over a variety of surfaces, including Diathonite plasters, drywall, wood, concrete, and even existing stucco, making it a flexible choice for many commercial projects. 

However, there is a trade-off when applying it to an already-textured surface like stucco. Here, the underlying texture will always dominate the final appearance. 

For the best aesthetic results, the paint performs best on smoother, flatter surfaces where its unique texture and finish can truly shine.

Low Maintenance

Once applied, the paint is incredibly easy to maintain. The surface resists dust and stains, making it simple to clean in commercial settings where time and resources are valuable.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly

Thanks to its natural ingredients and eco-friendly production, plaster paint is a green choice. For example, Daisen Plasterpaint is free from harmful chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and is certified by both the U.S. and Italian Green Building Councils.

This aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable building products in commercial projects and can help with achieving green building certifications on your project. 

How Plaster Paint Enhances Commercial Projects

Plaster paint not only provides practical benefits but also effortlessly boosts the visual appeal and creativity of commercial spaces.

With its unique texture, the paint adds luxury to a commercial exterior without the need to create one from brick, cement or wood. A plain flat surface can be instantly transformed into a stunning focal point, using just a paint roller. 

The texture of the paint can also play with light throughout the day, adding an ever-changing feel to how it captures the eye.

Choosing the right color is key for character. Deep, cozy colors can bring forth a rustic feel, while a more vibrant color palette can fulfill a distinctive and original project. The layering and blending of paint colors can also achieve ombre, aged or clouded finishes.

A Role in Improving Acoustic Performance

While plaster paint does not have any significant noise reduction benefits of its own, it can certainly play a role in enhancing acoustic insulation. 

When applied over a thermo-acoustic Diathonite base plaster, it can be part of a system that provides breathability, moisture resistance and acoustic success for the building.

Cost-Effectiveness of Plaster Paint for Commercial Projects

It’s always a win-win when you can present an idea as a cost-effective solution. So what makes this paint so economical?

Budget-Friendly Options for Large-Scale Projects

For large-scale projects, the paint can be a budget-friendly option as it gives walls an expensive finish without the cost of high-end materials. The texture is simply painted on with a roller or paintbrush. 

Long-Term Value

While the upfront cost of this type of paint may be higher than traditional paints, it creates a water-repellent, durable surface that offers incredible long-term value with low-maintenance needs.

And, with a high resistance to bad weather and UV damage, it’s a smart investment for budget-conscious commercial projects that want to offer long-lasting options to their clients.

How to Apply Plaster Paint in Commercial Spaces

The application of the paint is as straightforward as applying any standard paint.

1. Surface Preparation: Before applying any primer or paint, the surface must be thoroughly clean and dry, without crumbling or chipping.

2. Primer Application: Applying a primer is the next step. D20 or Aquabond is recommended, as they are both breathable primers. It is important to note that Aquabond contains aggregates, so it will add to the textured look.

3. Paint Application: Apply the first coat of paint with a brush or short-haired roller and wait for it to dry completely. Then, apply a second coat of paint until the substrate is completely covered. If applied on a particularly absorbent surface, a third coat may be necessary. For a better result, it’s advisable to cross-coat.

4. Drying and Curing Times:After application, you must allow sufficient drying and curing times to ensure the paint sets properly and achieves its full potential in terms of durability and appearance. 
   
   At a temperature of 73°F and a relative humidity of 50%,  the paint will dry completely in about three hours. During the summer, apply the product in the cooler hours of the day.

The Transformative Power of Plaster Paint in Commercial Design

This versatile paint is an ideal choice for architects and designers in commercial projects due to its combination of water repellency, durability, aesthetic versatility and sustainability. 

Whether you're looking to enhance a drab structure, provide weather protection or achieve cost-effective solutions, the paint offers a range of benefits that can meet many project needs.

Contact us today to explore the possibilities for your next project and discover how this unique material can transform your commercial project.