Venetian plaster is a natural, decorative finishing product and will last for many years, provided it is cared for in the same way that you would with any other elegant or refined material.
As such it is not a completely solid, robust and tough wall covering, generally speaking.
If you need a super hard and resistant material, we recommend either Microcement or particular types of Venetian plaster such as our natural stone ranges.
Some of the more delicate finishes, such as the Venetian polished plaster are easier to damage and therefore may not last as long, subject to usage, environment and overall care.
Venetian plaster adds a touch of luxury to any home or business so if you’re considering using this you might ask “How long does Venetian plaster last?”
Which is a great place to begin your enquiry.
In this detailed article, we will explore the potential lifespan of Venetian plaster, which factors might affect its durability, and look and how to best care for it so you can keep your installation looking great for many years to come.
What is Venetian Plaster?
Venetian plaster, also known as polished plaster, or stucco, is a traditional decorative wall coating applied and finished by hand, the techniques used originated in Venice, Italy centuries ago and have gone through periods of popularity.
Here in the UK, we have seen a revival of sorts over the last decade as homeowners become more aware of this premium alternative to paints and papering.
Formulated from a blend of slaked lime putty, marble dust, and other natural ingredients, this material is a desirable choice for those wanting an elegant and refined finish on their surfaces.
Due to the nature of this product and the skill involved in installing it, we recommend using a professional, such as ourselves, rather than attempting D.I.Y as it can easily become a costly mistake.
This material arrives as a paste and can be thinned out with the addition of water to aid in flow rate and spreadability.
Venetian plaster comes in many styles, textures and grain sizes which will determine the type of finish you’re able to create on your surfaces.
Once installed it is usually sealed with a protective wax coating.
How Durable is Venetian Plaster?
Venetian plaster is known for its durability and resistance to daily living in our homes, so will stay looking good for the long term if it’s looked after.
Some finishes are more durable than others but overall it represents a longer-lasting wall covering than normal painting or wallpapering.
When applied following the manufacturer’s recommendations, it can last for decades, even centuries, without degrading or losing its desirable attributes.
Once the plaster has fully cured it becomes hard and the mineral composition ensures it not only looks fantastic but also remains tough in the face of daily living conditions.
What are the considerations that can affect the longevity of a Venetian plaster installation?
Let’s delve into the main factors which can affect how well your venetian plaster installation performs.
- The Substrate; What materials or surfaces your Venetian plaster is installed on will have an impact on not just the overall finish of the project, but also how long it is likely to last. Having a solid, sound and well-prepared foundation will provide the best chance for this decorative finish to turn out well and last. Whereas a bouncy wall, dodgy plasterboarding or settlement in a newly constructed area can cause the product to fail. A strong bond with the plaster, enhancing its resilience.
- Your environment where the venetian plaster is used; Unsurprisingly the environment in which your Venetian plaster is installed can impact its longevity. It is designed to be used in normal household conditions so exposure to extreme variance in temperature fluctuations, harsh chemicals or airborne gases, high humidity and direct sunlight can affect the plaster’s surface and therefore its longevity.
- How your venetian plaster is applied; The method of application and surface preparations will determine in part how long the installation will last. A professional installation will ensure that the product stands up to the test of time, looking and feeling great every day.
- How the venetian plaster surface is cared for; Regular maintenance is crucial in preserving the beauty of Venetian plaster. Gentle cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals, and using soft microfiber cloths can extend its lifespan.
- Be mindful of additional works or projects planned at a later date; If there are already talks of doing building works in rooms or areas that are connected to or back onto the area where venetian plaster has been installed it is worth taking into consideration the fragility of this material. There is nothing more heartbreaking than lovingly crafting a surface, only to then have people bang and crash around next door, disturbing the wall and causing cracks to appear in the venetian plaster. It can be quite a brittle material to work with once cured so movement and big shocks or vibrations can unsettle it, resulting in damage and the need to recoat the surface after repairing the damage. Spillages, knocks and scrapes will add up over time and can jeopardise the nature of the surface, leaving it more susceptible to further damage.
- The brand of Venetian plaster which is used; As with most things in life, there can be a huge variance in quality from one supplier to the next. With formulas and additives varying, it is unfair to have a side-by-side comparison and say they are all equal. To give your installation the best chance of success we recommend using only reputable materials and an applicator who knows how to use them, all of our team are highly skilled in the art of venetian plastering. We also only source our range of materials from a couple of highly regarded brands that have been time tested and reassure us with their customer service.
How can I extend the life of my Venetian plaster surfaces?
To enjoy your installation and give it the best chance of staying in great shape we recommend taking these points on board:
Regular inspections and maintenance where needed
By carrying out a periodic visual inspection you can take note of any potential issues and seek to rectify them before they grow in severity. Not all damages can be repaired in the plaster surface and can sometimes lead to a recoat.
Reseal or waxing of the venetian plaster surface
By factoring in an element of upkeep you can keep the venetian plaster looking its best and extend its longevity.
As such the material benefits from a clean and reseal every 5 – 8 years, subject to use, care and daily environmental conditions.
This helps to retain the level of sheen and provides a barrier against dirt ingress.
Some of the sealers we use are more robust than others, which we can discuss in more detail if you’re interested. These can slightly alter the overall aesthetic and feel of your installation.
Cleaning products
It is good to have a proactive approach to cleaning your surfaces but please do take care with the venetian plaster as it can be tarnished or marked by harsh chemicals or rigorous cleaning techniques.
This is especially true where abrasive cleaning apparatus such as scouring pads, scrubbing brushes or wire wool are used.
Just don’t do it!
Hand touching and natural oils, grubby hands and the like can leave marks on the venetian plaster, which are tempting to want to clean right away.
Treating the surface with care and gentle pressure, using the right cleaning products for the material and sealant used, and above all else applying common sense.
If you’re uncertain about how best to approach the cleaning and aftercare of your venetian plaster, refer to the aftercare document or reach out to us for support.
To explore some past examples of our work, check through the gallery, linked here.
