What is Venetian plaster? Is it just a fancy name given to a standard plaster product, or is there something unique which sets it apart from other typical forms of plastering? And is it expensive? If so, why the price tag? Is it worth the investment? Will it likely add value to your home or is it just a fad? In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know.

What is Venetian plaster?

So, what is Venetian plaster? Venetian plaster, also known as marble plaster, Italian plaster, or polished plaster, is a type of plaster made from lime putty and marble dust which gives it a gorgeous, polished finish to both walls and ceilings. In fact, when applied correctly it can give off a look which imitates marble itself. As a direct result, people who use this product can enjoy a very successful decorative effect.

Venetian plaster can be enhanced using acrylic resins, however, when it is applied correctly by a professional, the plaster boasts its own unique, deeply textured and smooth finish, displaying a high and glossy sheen.

This plastering technique has been adopted for centuries and although it was originally used for building purposes, it is now used today as an interior design feature.

So, why is it so popular? Venetian plaster earned its popularity not only for having a striking and luxurious aesthetic but because it is a lime-based product and produced with fewer harmful chemicals – thus making it hypoallergenic and resistant to mould and algae.

Additionally, it is an excellent product for regulating humidity in the home. In a nutshell, Venetian plaster is a magnificent product all around.

 

Is Venetian plaster expensive?

The short answer is yes, but it’s all relative. A typical wet plaster job will set you back somewhere in the region of $90.00 per square metre, whereas a Venetian plaster finish costs approximately $150.00 per square metre.

Venetian plaster is expensive compared to a bog-standard plaster finish and with good reason. Not only is it far more labour intensive to install properly, but the aesthetic finish is far superior to that of any other form of plaster. Generally speaking, you will need to paint over normal plaster, however, Venetian plaster is a feature in and of itself and does not require any paint afterwards.

 

Does Venetian plaster increase home value?

So, is it worth paying the extra for Venetian plaster over a standard wet plaster job? Will it increase the value of your home?

Venetian plaster will immediately increase the overall value of your home. So, not only is it enhancing the aesthetic charm of your property (thus increasing it’s overall ‘buy ability’ and attractiveness to potential buyers), but it will also enable you to build equity and get more when looking to sell.

Why does it add value? What is it that makes it a superior option to standard plaster finishes?

• It’s natural: predominantly being made of limestone and water, Venetian plaster is more attractive to prospective buyers because it is an organic product that can sustainably be harvested from our natural environment. That, and it is naturally mould-resistant while not emitting any harmful substances into the home.
• It looks like marble: one cannot deny how fancy and expensive marble looks. While it is not marble, it effortlessly mimics the natural appearance of marble, making this an attractive and affordable alternative, while taking on a life of its own.
• It can be customised: while Venetian plaster looks amazing on its own, it can be customised in a wide variety of ways, using a combination of natural and synthetic colourings.
• It is a low-maintenance product: yes, the application of Venetian plaster is rather labour intensive and thus should be applied by a Venetian plastering specialist, however, the finished product is easy to care for. This is because it doesn’t age, fade, and is highly durable – even without additional varnishing.

 

Conclusion

All in all, Venetian plaster is a superior product that is well worth the hype. Here’s a quick summary:

• Venetian plaster is made from limestone putty and marble dust – giving a unique and natural-looking finish.
• It is expensive compared to regular plaster finishes, but the higher price tag is justified by the wealth of benefits it brings – not to mention its immense beauty.
• Venetian plaster can not only enhance the value of your home but increase its ‘buy ability’ to prospective investors.

We hope that you have found this article helpful. If you need further information or want to explore your Venetian plaster options, check out a reputable company like Platinum 3 Painting that has the expertise to deliver such a stunning, labour-intense product with expert precision.