Selecting the appropriate materials is essential to improving the exterior beauty and longevity of your home. A smooth and durable finish for external surfaces is largely dependent on cement putty, also known as exterior cement plaster. In contrast to interior applications, where aesthetics are frequently the main priority, exterior cement putty must endure different weather conditions without compromising its structural integrity.
Cement, sand, and water-resistance-enhancing additives make up external cement putty. Its composition is made to be resistant to peeling and cracking when exposed to sunlight, rain, and temperature changes. Because of its durability, it’s a great option for enhancing and safeguarding external walls. Its smooth surface can be painted or textured to suit personal style preferences.
The ability of cement putty to withstand water penetration is one of its main characteristics for external use. When applied correctly and allowed to cure, it creates a waterproof layer that shields the supporting structure from moisture damage. This is especially crucial in areas with frequent heavy rains or high humidity since moisture intrusion can eventually cause mold, mildew, and structural deterioration.
Cement putty also has a wide range of applications. It can be applied mechanically or manually, providing even coverage and a consistent finish over sizable external surfaces. This flexibility adds to the building exterior’s overall longevity while also enhancing the facade’s visual appeal.
| Advantages | Provides smooth finish, weather-resistant, enhances durability of exterior walls |
| Challenges | Requires skilled application, prone to cracking if not applied correctly, may need periodic maintenance |
Types of cement putty
Depending on the purpose of each component, mixtures are categorized. The following versions of the finishing materials are available for any kind of work:
- Starting mixture – applied as the first and main layer. With its help, the surface is prepared: large cracks, bumps are closed. The finished solution is a rough composition with large particles, which creates a strong base. The layer is applied with a thickness of not more than 20 mm. Suitable for working with surfaces made of wood, drywall, concrete.
- Finish putty – applied as the final layer. The solution has a soft pasty texture. Applied with a layer of 1-4 mm.
- Universal compositions – use at any stage of the finish. The material is convenient to use, but at the cost is not always justified.
Different putty mixtures have different fraction sizes. They have larger granular materials ranging in size from 0.5 to 0.8 mm to begin with. The fractions in the final solution can have a maximum size of 0.2 mm.
Putty made of cement has color. Three options are produced by manufacturers:
- white mixture;
- Super -White composition;
- Gray mixture.
Color compositions are affordable and suitable for customers on a tight budget. This choice works well for the facade’s decoration.
Putty made of cement has become very popular; various kinds of products are produced that vary not only in function but also in technical parameters. The characteristics of cement putty intended for external use include resistance to water, temperature extremes, and vapor permeability. Because of the mixture’s elastic structure, decorative coatings or paints can be applied to the final layer.
Combinations possessing water-repellent properties prevent condensation from forming on the wall following precipitation. This putty is applied quickly, dispersed evenly, and in contact with various materials.
Frost-resistant mixes effectively hide chips and cracks and can tolerate temperature fluctuations. Good adhesion is a characteristic of heat-resistant compositions, which are used on walls exposed to high temperatures.
Pros and cons of cement putty
Cement putty is a commonly used finish. There are several good reasons for the demand. It is easy and convenient to work with the mixture; no special knowledge or skills are needed. Use tools found in any construction store to install the walls.
By purchasing a dry mixture, they become familiar with comprehensive guidelines regarding the breeding process. You can quickly prepare the solution to the appropriate consistency by following the recommendation. Modern cement-based putty is resistant to nearly all mechanical stresses and harsh environments. Even on uneven surfaces where the wall drops don’t go over 1.5 cm, you can use the material.
In addition to its dependability, they also like the cement mixture’s reasonable cost. The budget will not be met by using this finish.
Despite all its benefits, putty still has a few drawbacks. The solution has a granular structure even when using the finished mixture. The cement composition is of lower quality than mixtures based on latex or acrylic. They nevertheless favor cement composition despite the value disparity.
There is still a third-party shade in white putty. Thus, it is preferable to decline such a decoration if painting the walls is the plan. If finishing materials are used to decorate the wall’s surface, this disadvantage cannot be deemed significant.
It is not possible to mix putty with other materials like glue, paint, or varnish because the mixture will become ineffective and lose its original properties.
How to make a cement putty with your own hands?
You can buy finishing materials from any building supply store. However, you can make it with your own hands. The primary ingredients in the mixture are:
- binders – use polymeric materials;
- fillers – use products that divide the putty into gypsum, acrylic, cement;
- Coloring pigments.
An inexpensive alternative is homemade cement putty. Use one of two tried-and-true recipes to prepare the mixture:
- Washed career (river) sand in the amount of 10 liters is mixed with cement M400-500, add PVA glue in an amount of 2 liters. The mixture is poured with 5 liters of water, mixed well with a construction mixer. The consistency of the finished mixture should resemble a thick sour cream. Such a putty is characterized by increased adhesion.
- PVA glue is mixed with water 1: 1, a dry mixture of cement M400-500 is added, mixed with alabastr in a ratio of 1: 1 by weight. The solution is mixed, used immediately after preparation.
In order to ensure a satisfactory outcome, it is advised to follow a few basic guidelines when preparing a high-quality mixture. Only pure water without any impurities and clean containers are needed to prepare the mixture. The constituents select a low-grinding level and thoroughly combine the mixture to achieve a uniform composition. The ratios are monitored during the mixing process. Since the completed solution sets quickly, it is applied right away after preparation.
Work with putty
The technology used to manipulate the material has unique properties. Consider a number of subtleties when applying finishing material to prevent problems.
A reinforced net is utilized in the work if there are significant changes to the wall decoration. It is placed in between the putty layers to prevent cracking after drying.
You must wait for each applied layer to completely dry before applying two or more layers. It requires roughly twelve hours. It is recommended by experts to process each layer using a primer penetration. Their clutch will function better as a result.
It’s important to hold the spatula correctly in your hand when applying the solution. Use a standard wide spatula for work. A unique angular tool can be used to align the corners. When working on the surface, hold a spatula 30 degrees away from the wall’s base. If it isn’t cleaned under a stream of water when the job is done, the mixture’s leftovers will freeze on the tool’s surface.
Abrasive paper or a metal grater is used to clean the surface following wall alignment and finish layer drying completely.
With an understanding of these subtleties, you can apply the facade putty on your own, with little difficulty. Using basic tools, the cement-based material in the work is easily pliable and not arbitrary.
One of the many materials that can be used to improve the strength and visual appeal of external facades is cement putty. Its main purpose is to even out irregular surfaces and close up spaces so that the base is consistent for other treatments. Because of this, it’s especially useful for priming surfaces before painting or applying decorative finishes.
Cement putty’s resistance to weathering and environmental stresses is one of its main benefits when used outdoors. It creates a strong layer that shields the underlying structure from physical harm and moisture infiltration when applied and cured correctly. Because of its resilience, it can be used in a variety of climates and will last for a long time with little upkeep.
It’s crucial to follow advised application methods when thinking about using cement putty outside. Adequate surface preparation, such as cleaning and priming, guarantees the putty layer’s best adhesion and durability. Selecting premium cement putty designed for outdoor application also improves the facade’s overall functionality and visual appeal.
Cement putty also provides a variety of design and finishing options. It can be left neutral for a timeless appearance or tinted to fit desired color schemes. Because of its smooth texture, it can be decorated with a variety of techniques, including stenciled designs or textured finishes, which gives architects flexibility in creating a range of architectural styles.
In conclusion, because of its durability, aesthetic potential, and protective properties, cement putty is a valuable material for external facades. Through comprehension of its application techniques and advantages, homeowners and builders can efficiently improve the look and durability of their building exteriors.
Cement putty is a crucial component in improving the durability and aesthetics of home facades. When used externally, cement putty is a multipurpose material that effectively fills in gaps and cracks while smoothing and leveling surfaces. Because of its ability to withstand weather, it is perfect for withstanding the elements, guaranteeing longevity and structural integrity. Beyond its practical use, cement putty provides an artistic canvas, allowing for a variety of finishes and textures that enhance a building’s external appearance. This article examines the useful uses and advantages of cement putty in exterior remodeling, emphasizing the material’s critical role in facade design’s protective and aesthetically pleasing aspects.
