Cement Plaster Vs Gypsum Plaster

Cement plaster and gypsum plaster are the two most common types of plaster used in construction. Many homeowners get confused while selecting one between these two plastering materials. So in this article, we will briefly discuss the difference between cement plaster vs gypsum plaster.

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The main purpose of plastering is to prevent the surface from atmospheric impacts, to cover damaged masonry work, to conceal porous components, and to give a good painting surface.

Cement and gypsum plaster is the most common plaster used in building construction. These plasters are applied to the building’s external and internal plastering, forming a protective layer that protects the stone and brick masonry, as well as the RCC walls and ceilings.

Additionally, wall plastering is useful for leveling wall and ceiling surfaces, and textured or stucco plaster and finishes are made with gypsum and cement plaster.

What Is Cement Plaster?

Cement plaster is a mixture of Portland cement, sand, or fine aggregates, and water in appropriate proportions. It is applied to masonry interiors and exteriors to get smooth surfaces.

Cement Plaster Vs Gypsum Plaster — **Smooth Cement Plaster Finish**

Depending on the type of building to be plastered, the cement plaster is usually put in a single layer with a thickness of 12 mm, 15 mm, or 20 mm.

It is made composed of the standard 1:4 proportions (i.e. 1 part cement to 4 parts sand), however larger proportions might be utilized depending on nature.

What Is Gypsum Plaster?

Gypsum plaster is white cementing material, which is formed by partial or complete dehydration of the mineral gypsum, often with particular retarders or hardeners added.

It is applied to the surface in a plastic state (with water), where it sets and hardens due to the chemical recombination of the gypsum with water.

To create a smooth surface, it can be directly applied over brick, AAC block, concrete, or plasterboards.

The cement plaster method is gradually being phased out in favor of a single layer of gypsum plaster applied directly to the wall.

The readymade POP powder is mixed with water and applied straight to the wall in gypsum plaster.

Usually, there are two types of thicknesses for gypsum plaster: 11 mm thickness for walls and 8 mm thickness for ceiling.

Now, lets discuss their differences in detail below:

Differences Between Cement Plaster And Gypsum Plaster

Here are some differences between cement plaster and gypsum plaster which will help you to choose your plaster material.

Particulars	Cement Plaster	Gypsum Plaster
Application	Smooth surfaces cannot be covered with cement plaster. It can be used both on interior and exterior surfaces.	Gypsum plaster can only be used on ceilings and interior walls. It cannot be used in wet areas like bathrooms, toilets, kitchen wash areas, balconies, etc. It can be applied both on smooth as well as rough surfaces.
Surface Finish	Generally, it gives rough surfaces.	Gypsum plaster gives a very smooth surface which is very compatible with paints.
Property	Cement plaster is not considered safe from fungus.	This plaster is anti-fungus plaster and it doesn’t get affected by any insect.
Strength	Cement plaster has low tensile and fractural strength which can easily develop shrinkage.	Gypsum plaster has high tensile and flexural strength. That is why it can prevent shrinkage.
Curing	In case of cement plaster pre-curing and post-curing are required.	There is no need for curing in case of Gypsum plaster.
Fire resistance	In case of fire, cement plaster develops cracks. It becomes brittle and losses its bonds with walls.	Gypsum plaster acts as a barrier and protects the blockwork, concrete, and steelwork from fire.
Corrosion protection	Cement plaster is not a rust inhibitor.	Gypsum plaster is a perfect rust-preventive agent and it also inhibits the corrosion of electric metals, pipes, fittings, etc.
Labor cost	Depending upon location and site, the mix ratio of sand and cement is different. It requires skilled labors for accurate and perfect work.	Since gypsum plaster is premixed, it is available in easily handled bags, it requires only water before application. It results in less wastage of time and it reduces labor costs.
Finishing	After cement plaster, POP punning is required for better and leveled finished surfaces.	For sealing walls, gypsum plaster gives a smooth internal finish.
Setting time	Between two coats of cement plaster, minimum 24 hours gap is required.	The setting time of gypsum plaster can Be controlled and the time gap between two successive coats is very small.
Addition of dead load	The density of cement plaster is comparatively higher, so it increases the dead load of the structure.	The density of gypsum plaster is less and it is light in weight.
Cost	The cost of cement plaster is more.	Gypsum plaster is cheaper.
Impact on environment	Cement plaster is not an eco-friendly product.	Gypsum is a green building product.
Time of construction	The application of cement plaster is a time-consuming process and it also increases the project cost.	The application of gypsum plaster is a time-saving process so it decreases the project cost.

Cement Plaster Vs Gypsum Plaster – Which Is Better?

Both plasters have advantages and disadvantages, but nothing surpasses cement plaster for exterior plastering. Gypsum plaster can help save time during construction and guarantee that projects are completed on time.

However, because pre-curing and post-curing are required for cement plaster, the project cost rises. Unlike cement, gypsum plasters do not shrink during the drying and hardening process.

Gypsum plaster is extremely simple to apply and level. Gypsum is a fire-resistant and non-toxic material that can be used to coat the inside walls of your home.

When compared to cement plaster, gypsum plaster offers a superior polish. It is, however, appropriate for inside plastering, whereas cement plaster can be utilized for external plastering.