Answering Your Questions About Venetian Plastering
If you think that Venetian plastering is dated, think again. This Italian-inspired plastering technique has found its place in modern design and what was once old is new again. Venetian plaster can work in all styles of décor, from traditional to modern, without any of the old upkeep challenges it used to present. Chances are that you’ve seen Venetian plastering popping up in homes and business around you—or if you haven’t, you will. The rise in popularity of Venetian plastering has prompted many people to have questions about it. Here are the answers to some of the ones we hear most often.
What is Venetian plaster?
Have you ever noticed walls or ceilings that look like natural stone but clearly are not? That is Venetian plaster. Venetian plastering involves mixing fired limestone with water and then using the putty that is created to plaster the walls in short strokes and twirls, mimicking the appearance of natural stone.
Venetian plastering has its roots in the Roman Empire. It was developed in Venice but used throughout the empire in public spaces and in homes, because it created a look like natural stone without the cost and inconvenience of working with stone.
Is Venetian plaster always beige or brown?
Many people incorrectly envision Venetian plaster as having to be beige and brown. Although these kinds of earthy hues are popular for Venetian plastering—after all, the plaster is supposed to mimic stone—you are by no means limited to those choices.
For some people, other neutral colors, like gray and white, are popular choices. However, it is becoming more common to use Venetian plastering techniques with bold colors to give it a modern look and appeal. When you’re trying to decide if Venetian plaster is right for your space, think of the technique rather than colors, since you can essentially use any color you’d like.
Isn’t Venetian plaster hard to maintain?
That view of Venetian plaster is outdated. Today’s plaster is light and easy to care for. If the surface is damaged, you can spot fix it, rather than redoing the entire wall or ceiling, as was common in the past. Venetian plaster is actually a relatively low maintenance technique.
Keep in mind, however, that some Venetian-style plasters are mixed with aggregates like marble and glass to create texture. These are not true Venetian plasters, and they are more difficult to maintain.
Do you have more questions about Venetian plaster? Old Pueblo Stucco and Construction Company is here to help. From new construction to simply giving your home a facelift, our stucco and painting work can help you get the space you want. Talk to our Phoenix stucco company by dialing (520) 304-7037