Consumption of plaster per 1 m2 of the wall: how to calculate and save money

Plaster consumption per 1 m2 of wall: highlights and accurate calculations

In construction, calculating the amount of materials is a critical step that helps avoid cost and time overruns. This is especially important for finishing works, such as plastering walls. Errors in calculations can lead to a shortage of materials, which in turn delays repairs and increases their cost. In this article, we will look at how to correctly calculate the consumption of plaster per 1 m2 of a wall.

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First of all, you need to measure the parameters of the room. The area of a room can be calculated by multiplying the length by the width. For example, if a room is 5 meters long and 4 meters wide, then the area will be 20 m2.

The next step is to determine the required thickness of the plaster layer. The average value for a new house is 13 mm, and for an old one-25 mm. Using this data, you can quickly calculate the approximate flow rate of the mixture. For example, when using a dry mix packed in 30 kg packages, a new house will require about 0.5 bags per 1 m2, and an old one-1 bag per 1 m2. Thus, for a room of 10 m2, you will need 5 bags of plaster.

Accurate calculation of plaster consumption

However, quick calculations may not be accurate enough, as they do not take into account the curvature of the walls and other factors. For a more accurate calculation, you must:

1. Measure the curvature of the walls. Surface irregularities can significantly affect material consumption. For this purpose, special beacons are used that allow you to determine the average deviation of the wall level.
2. Check if the walls are parallel. Measuring the length and height of walls at several points helps to detect deviations from the vertical and horizontal.
3. Define angles. The ideal angle should be 90°. Deviations require additional alignment.

Methods for measuring wall irregularities

There are several methods for detecting wall irregularities:

• Lighthouses. They allow you to determine the lowest and highest points on the wall, providing accurate measurement of deviations.
• Metal guides. Special aluminum profiles help to more accurately determine the thickness of the plaster layer required for leveling the surface.

Consumption of gypsum and cement plaster

Manufacturers of dry mixes usually indicate the material consumption on the package. This value is given for a layer with a thickness of 10 mm. For example, if a bag contains 8 kg/m2, then for a layer with a thickness of 20 mm, you will need to double this amount – up to 16 kg / m2.

Types of plaster mixes

There are many types of plaster mixes, each of which has its own characteristics and purpose:

• Cement plasters. They have a high density and the highest cost – about 16-17 kg / m2.
• Gypsum plasters. Ideal for leveling, they consume about 8-9 kg/m2.
• Decorative plasters. For facade works, for example, “bark beetle”, spend only 2-3 kg / m2.
• Venetian plaster. It is applied in thin layers and requires only 0.07-0.2 kg / m2.
• Textured mixes. Create a raised surface, spend 3-5 kg / m2.

How to reduce the consumption of plaster

There are several ways to reduce the consumption of expensive plasters:

• Line the walls with drywall or MDF. This will significantly reduce the amount of plaster needed for leveling.
• Use machine-applied cement plaster. This method allows you to reduce material consumption by 2-2. 5 times.
• Choose plaster with different packaging. The use of large bags saves money, and small packages help to avoid material residues.

Conclusion

Correct calculation of the consumption of plaster per 1 m2 of the wall is the key to successful repair work. Regardless of whether the work is done independently or with the help of contractors, knowing the exact amount of material will help you control the process and avoid unnecessary costs.