This building material, made of aggregate, water, and cement, is known for its porous nature and ability to be tinted with pigments. It is commonly used in construction to cover the exterior of buildings and, to a lesser extent, the interior. The technique of application, involving trowel and brush, contributes to its strength and durability, making it suitable for exterior cladding, waterproofing, and insulation. It is crucial to understand the fundamental differences among the various types of this finish, as painting over it is not recommended. Instead, the surface is coated and sealed to protect the underlying material.
There are three main types of this finish:
- Standard: This is generally the most popular option, applied directly from the scaffold with a trowel. The result is a smooth finish with a slightly textured appearance, ideal for exterior cladding, waterproofing, and insulation.
- Smooth: This finish is made from a smooth mortar mix and applied using a smooth trowel. It features vertical and horizontal lines, making it suitable for exterior cladding, waterproofing, and insulation.
- Rough: This finish is created by applying a rough mortar mix from the scaffold using a rough trowel. The trowel is tapped on the previous layer to create a textured pattern, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing overall appearance.
This material has gained popularity for home remodeling projects due to its ability to add elegance and durability to the home’s exterior.