Venetian plaster walls can bring a timeless elegance to any interior space, from high end residences to hotels and offices. A few basic maintenance steps can help you to enjoy this stylish and sophisticated feature at its best for years to come.
Venetian plaster is naturally hard wearing and fairly resilient, because it is less prone to cracking and shrinkage than regular plaster. It’s also breathable so it is less prone to developing issues with mould and dampness. It’s quite easy to take care of, but there are a few points to bear in mind.
Here are some tips for taking the best care of your polished plaster surfaces.
Ascertain if the wall is sealed
Sometimes the installer will add a coating of wax or sealant to the wall to add an extra layer of water and stain resistance. This makes it easy to clean and it is especially advisable if the plaster is in a high-moisture environment such as a kitchen or bathroom. It may be the case that the wax or sealant needs reapplying every year or so.
If the wall has not been sealed, check with the installer how best to care for it.
Use gentle cleaning products
Always use gentle non abrasive cloths or sponges to avoid scratching the polished plaster surface. Dust the surface to remove any build up of small particles. If the wall requires a deeper clean, use lukewarm water and a mild soap with no bleach added. Gently rub the wall with circular motions and avoid scrubbing.
Next, dry the surface with a soft microfibre cloth to ensure that there are no watermarks left and to maintain the lustre of the plasterwork.
Deal with stains immediately
Occasionally, the Venetian plaster might be stained or marked. Sometimes marks or scuffs can be removed by gently rubbing the affected area with a pencil eraser, but avoid excessive scrubbing as this may damage the surface. Larger stains should be dabbed with a cloth soaked in clean water, and then gently wiped with a mild detergent.
If any stains remain after the plaster has dried, it’s best to consult a professional Venetian plaster installer for advice rather than try to tackle the problem yourself.
Control humidity levels
Polished plaster can be sensitive to moisture and heat, so take extra care to ventilate damp environments such as kitchens and bathrooms. If the walls do get splashed or form heavy condensation, wipe them down with a dry soft cloth.
Carry out regular inspection of the plasterwork
Venetian plaster work is hard wearing and you can expect it to remain in good condition with a simple maintenance routine. However, it’s worth inspecting the plaster work for any cracks, chips, scratches or other areas of concern on a regular basis, because these issues are best nipped in the bud.
Most of the time, minor surface damage is easily repairable. However, because of the specialist nature of the installation technique, it is best to leave any repairs to the professionals.
