Venetian & Decorative Plaster

What decorative plaster is and how it looks

Venetian plaster is built from thin layers of lime or acrylic plaster, troweled on and burnished to a smooth, glossy surface. Other decorative plasters, such as Marmorino and tadelakt, give a softer or more textured appearance and can be used in showers when sealed correctly. Depth comes from the layers and tints blending, so no two walls are exactly alike. Ask to see finished work and samples in different lighting before choosing. Get the key details in writing, including materials, timing and what is and is not included, so everyone is working from the same expectations.

Preparation and layering matter most

The wall must be flat, clean and sound. Drywall seams are skimmed and primed, and cracks are repaired. The plasterer then applies two to four thin coats, often with different tools and tint variations, burnishing each layer. Rushing the drying between coats leads to blotches. The result takes several days for a room. Consider lighting and furniture, since polished plaster picks up reflections and shows trowel marks in raking light. A short walkthrough at the end of the job is the best moment to ask questions and confirm that everything is finished the way you expect.

Care, sealing and what to avoid

Polished plaster is durable but should be waxed or sealed to resist stains, especially in kitchens and baths. Clean with a damp soft cloth and avoid abrasive pads. Scratches and dings can be touched up by the plasterer. Choose the sheen that suits the room, from satin to high gloss. Keep leftover color information for future repairs, since matching hand-applied finishes later without it is difficult. Share any access limits, pets, parking or building rules in advance so the crew arrives prepared and the visit runs smoothly. A short walkthrough at the end of the job is the best moment to ask questions and confirm that everything is finished the way you expect.

Drywall Hang & Finish for New Rooms & Additions

Drywall hanging, taping, mudding and sanding for new rooms, additions and framed-out spaces, rea…

Water-Damaged Drywall Replacement

Removal and replacement of water-damaged drywall after leaks, floods or condensation, with dryin…

Fire-Rated Drywall & Garage Separation

Fire-rated Type X drywall installed on garage walls and ceilings, with taped joints and sealed p…

Garage Wall & Ceiling Finish

Finishing a garage with drywall, paint, texture and trim so walls and ceilings look clean, brigh…

Plaster Repair & Restoration

Repair and restoration of traditional plaster walls and ceilings: cracks, holes, loose keys, dec…

New Stucco Application

New stucco application on additions, new construction and re-clad homes by a licensed plastering…

Wall Insulation Retrofit

Retrofit insulation for existing walls by a licensed insulation contractor: drill-and-fill, dens…

Spray Foam Insulation

Open-cell and closed-cell spray foam insulation installed by a licensed contractor for attics, w…

Crawlspace Vapor Barrier & Encapsulation

Crawlspace vapor barrier and encapsulation by a licensed insulation contractor: heavy plastic li…