Repairs are often accompanied by leveling the walls using plaster. In addition, it also improves thermal insulation and reduces the level of extraneous noise in the finished room. Surfaces plastered with decorative mixtures have a beautiful appearance. When the unevenness is small and there are practically no defects, then the solution is often simply applied to the prepared base. If the deviations are large and there are cracks, then a plaster mesh must be used to reinforce the walls. It is represented by a wide range, which allows you to select products for specific operating conditions.
Area of use
Reinforcing mesh for plastering walls has replaced old methods (shingles, driven nails) used to improve the adhesion of the finishing layer to the base surface. It is made from materials that differ in their properties. There are products on the market from a large number of different manufacturers.
Used for both interior and exterior work. It is the basis of the leveling coating. The latter as a result becomes stronger and more durable. The mesh should be used to avoid the appearance of peeling, cracking, or to stop the process of crack growth itself.
Construction mesh for plaster is used to qualitatively prepare the base for further measures to decorate work surfaces. At correct installation and further plastering, it extends the service life of the finish and helps maintain the integrity of the partitions.
Types of plaster mesh
Reinforced mesh for plaster differs in the materials used for its production, the structure and size of the cells, and the methods of creation. According to the first criterion, the following varieties are distinguished:
- plastic;
Products have all the advantages and disadvantages of the materials used to produce them.
A more detailed classification is presented in the table below.
| View | Cell size, mm | Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| masonry (painting) | 5*5 | plastic sheet used when working outside and inside buildings using gypsum mixtures |
| universal: small, medium, large | 6*6, 14*15, 22*35 | the fine-mesh version is a suitable mesh for plastering internal walls, and the coarse-mesh version can withstand temperature changes and external loads well |
| fiberglass mesh | 5*5 | durable, resistant to moisture, cold and heat, chemical compounds |
| Plurima | 5*6 | made from polypropylene, chemically inert, used for external and interior work |
The existing assortment allows you to select high-quality products taking into account all requirements. The use of a material that meets existing conditions determines the durability of the finish.
Selection of working material
The main determining factor when selecting a material is its suitability for specific conditions, so the mesh for plastering walls is selected taking into account the following number of factors:
- the required thickness of the created finishing coating;
- the type of plaster mixture used;
- type of base (concrete, wood, brick, porous materials, stone);
- external conditions in which the formed plaster layer will be located: outside the building, inside, or in unheated, damp rooms.
Plaster using the following types of mixtures:
- cement-lime;
- gypsum;
- cement-sand;
- clay and others.
Various additives are often added to such compositions. They, together with the main components, have a certain level of chemical activity. Which determines the degree of their influence on the different materials from which the meshes for reinforcement are made.
Taking into account the above provisions, the main recommendations for choosing a mesh for plastering walls are as follows:
- It is recommended to use glass fabric products when the thickness of the created layer of plaster is up to 3 cm, when there are also depressions and cracks to stop the expansion of old ones and the formation of new ones;
- if the height of the coating being formed exceeds 3 cm, then a more appropriate option would be metal: it can withstand the weight of the finish without peeling off;
- It is better to use plastic products for gypsum mortars that are thin in thickness, and, for example, cement-sand compositions corrode such reinforcing material over time;
- when using clay-based mixtures, also when there are significant irregularities on the surface of the base, metal options are relevant;
- plastic sheets with small cell sizes (for example, 0.2-0.3 cm) are used during finishing putty work;
- fiberglass or galvanized (ordinary metal ones are not suitable), products are good way reinforce rooms with high humidity;
- when there is a need to plaster the stove with a cement-clay mortar, then you can use chain-link, and if it is a thin layer, fiberglass;
- steel products are suitable for joint use with compositions containing cement;
- during the plastering works for finishing the external walls of a house, material with cells of 3*3 cm is usually used, and larger sizes are selected to tighten the surface;
- For internal work, the material is mainly used in rolls, and for external work, in the form of sections.
When the height of the created plaster layer does not exceed 2 cm, then reinforcement can be omitted. Following the recommendations outlined above will allow you to choose the most practical material.
Features of installation of different types of mesh
Metal mesh for plaster, fiberglass or plastic, can be mounted using different ways. The choice of fastening option is determined by the composition of the working mixture, the material from which the mesh is made, and the plastering technique used. Fix with:
- self-tapping screws or dowel-nails, screws.
The first layer of plaster to level the walls is reinforced by pressing the mesh into the solution of the required thickness applied to the surface.
The optimal way to create a finishing coating (covering or decor) is to secure the adhesive fabric to a dry base with special fasteners.
When the area to be finished is small, then you can use the working mixture for fixation, applying it pointwise.
It is enough to simply fix the painting mesh with a thin layer of solution.
The fiberglass sheet is mounted according to the following optimal algorithm:
- carry out markings for the installation of beacons;
- holes are drilled along it, into which dowels are then inserted;
- align the screw heads according to the level;
- apply the solution to an area equal to the width of the fabric used;
- immediately apply a mesh to the plaster, threading screw heads through it;
- add the mixture further;
- overlap (10 cm) fix the next strip;
- This continues until the entire room is reinforced;
- install beacons.
The solution should be smoothed evenly over the canvas, starting from the middle of the strip, moving towards its edges. When creating a thin layer, it pays to secure fiberglass to staples and then apply putty.
The metal plaster mesh is attached in the following sequence:
- cleared of lubricant composition, rinsing with water or wiping with a damp cloth;
- use metal scissors to cut the canvas into pieces of the required size;
- drill holes with a diameter of 6 mm for dowels every 25-30 cm (about 3 mm deep than the length of the plastic part of the fastener), insert them;
- Using screws and mounting tape, secure the material to the surface;
- the following fragments are laid with a 10 cm overlap;
- install beacons.
The minimum height of the created coating depends on the thickness of the mesh wire. Metal products additionally strengthens the base, and fiberglass reinforces the plaster with mesh.
Methods for securing the plaster mesh are discussed in detail in the video below.
The installation of facade fiberglass material is shown in the video below.
Strengthening the base, increasing the strength and reliability of the plaster finish - all this is ensured by the creation of an adhesive layer. It is formed using different materials.
To correctly reinforce walls with mesh, it is necessary to take into account the type of mortar used, the installation location (outside or inside the building), and the expected height of the coating. It is also necessary to use suitable installation technology. Compliance with the listed conditions allows you to plaster walls or ceilings with high quality, minimize the possibility of cracking, and not be afraid of shrinkage of the house.
The most popular type of wall decoration today is the technology of using various decorative plaster solutions. A special role in it is played by the reinforcing mesh for plastering walls. Its use not only improves aesthetic properties, but also raises the quality of the plastered surface to a new higher level, preventing the destruction of the decorative layer, the appearance of shrinkage cracks and achieving maximum adhesion to the base.
In addition, reinforcing mesh is used not only as a key element for wall processing, but also for finishing concrete plinths and foundations. The range of its application expands to strengthening attic and interfloor ceilings. The reinforcing mesh fabric not only protects the plastered surface from mechanical damage, but also from temperature changes and the harmful effects of moisture.
Considering the versatility of the field of application of reinforcing mesh, manufacturers offer a wide range of such construction products, in which you can easily get lost. But knowing the key selection criteria, you can easily buy high-quality rolled material suitable for the required type of work.
Fiberglass Plaster Mesh
This type of mesh fabric is made from polymer fibers high quality, impregnated with polyacrylic dispersion, providing reliable and durable protection against aggressive influences. Fiberglass roll material has a number of positive qualities:
- High level of mechanical strength;
- Resistance to various types of deformation;
- Insensitivity to the influence of acidic and alkaline environments;
- Not susceptible to changes under the influence of temperature changes;
- Flexibility and elasticity;
- Light weight;
- Increased adhesion of the plaster layer to the wall;
- Reinforcement of waterproofing and thermal insulation systems;
- Compliance with fire safety standards;
- Does not require special fasteners. It is simply attached to the mortar and reinforces the putty layer in the middle;
- High level of resistance to the effects of rotting and corrosion processes.
The advantages can also be added to the tape format of the mesh on an adhesive basis, which has greater flexibility and elasticity. It is very convenient for working with cracks and sheet joints.
Thanks to its high quality characteristics, the range of applications for fiberglass plastering mesh is significantly expanded, making it possible to create its variety.
Painting fiberglass mesh
Painting mesh made of fiberglass is used for interior walls of any buildings and structures. Its density is 60 g/m2, cell 2.5x2.5 mm. Painting mesh is used for strengthening when carrying out any internal putty work:
- Finishing ceilings, walls and repairing cracks in them;
- Treatment of door and window jambs;
- Puttying the junctions of walls with windows and doors;
- Used when carrying out waterproofing work;
- Whole plasterboard sheets are puttied.
Fiberglass mesh for facade work
This type of fiberglass mesh is used for any type of external work:
- Repair and restoration of the facade;
- Strengthening the facade when installing insulation systems;
- It is used to create a waterproofing layer during the construction of a foundation or during roofing work;
- Strengthening the anti-vandal properties of the facade.
The density of fiberglass mesh for plastering facades is 160 g/m2 with cell sizes of 5 x 5 mm.
Universal fiberglass reinforcement mesh
The universal mesh roll material absorbs all the stresses created in the putty layer, while reducing the risk of cracks. It has a density of 145 g/m2 and cell dimensions of 4 x 4 mm. It is applicable in most types of putty work:
- Strengthening self-leveling floors;
- Application when carrying out work on insulation of facades;
- Used for any waterproofing work.
Reinforcing plastic mesh
Plastic mesh for plaster has an enviable popularity in construction circles due to its versatility and high quality potential, guaranteeing a wide range of performance characteristics that are almost identical to the positive properties of fiberglass mesh.
However, it is worth noting that not all plastics used in the production of mesh for plastering are resistant to the aggressive effects of an acid-alkaline environment. Over time, they can simply dissolve the plastic skeleton of the plaster layer.
Plastic roll material for plaster has another negative point - it is not recommended to use a layer of more than 8 mm. Under such conditions, the plaster on the mesh will simply lose its reinforcing properties.
Main areas of application:
- Used for reinforcing plasterboard seams;
- It is used when leveling internal and façade walls;
- Indispensable when carrying out insulation works polystyrene foam or extruded polystyrene foam. It increases adhesion while maintaining the strength and quality of the insulating layer;
- Effective in strengthening the sand and gravel cushion for the foundation;
- Used in brick laying.
A fairly wide range of applications for plastic mesh fabric gives rise to large assortment its varieties. At the same time, for carrying out internal work on plastering walls, it is preferable to take a mesh with square cells measuring 5 x 5 mm. And for finishing the facade, a mesh with larger cells of 10 x 10 mm square profile is applicable. A suitable material for polystyrene foam is one that has high rigidity and large cells, for example, square ones with a size of 40 x 40 mm.
Metal reinforcing mesh
Metal mesh is a very popular reinforcing material for finishing surfaces. It can not only strengthen plaster layers, but also be used at various stages of construction. For high-quality façade work, more suitable roll material can't be found.
Its use will not only increase the service life and prevent the appearance of cracks on the plastered surface, but also greatly improve the quality and aesthetics of the decorative layer.
Depending on the requirements for future finishing, different types of metal mesh are used, differing not only in the shape and size of the cells, but also in the method of weaving and the thickness of the material used.
Metal roll sectional material may differ in the type of insulating material:
- Galvanized surface;
- Plastic.
The “protected” type is not only resistant to chemical and atmospheric irritants, but also has a higher cost compared to conventional metal ones. But by purchasing an insulated reinforcing material, you can rest assured that the durability of the plaster layer will not soon show terrible rusty spots.
Welded metal mesh
Plastering metal welded mesh is especially popular in the construction world not only for perfect combination price and quality, but also for many high-quality performance properties:
- Light weight;
- Ease of processing. You can use metal scissors to cut it;
- The plaster layer reinforced with such a mesh has an increased strength index;
- Possibility of finishing metal surfaces. In this case, it is simply welded to the base, and then a layer of plaster is applied;
- Large selection of cell sizes. From the wide variety, you can purchase mesh even for rare finishing cases. But the most popular is metal mesh 10x10 mm.
Flaws:
- During operation, resistance welding may fly off over time;
- It is quite difficult to return the mesh to evenness after rolling;
- Welding areas are most susceptible to corrosion, even with a galvanized coating.
Areas of application:
- Relevant for any finishing work. Metal mesh for plaster with large sizes cells are mainly used for cladding external or industrial walls;
- Used for finishing load-bearing structures;
- Ideal for strengthening foundations;
- The welded mesh type qualitatively reinforces the thermal insulation structure;
- Metal mesh is often used in brickwork;
- This mesh material is made with different insulation.
Metal plaster mesh is a special type of welded rolled material created specifically for plastering walls, providing maximum adhesion and special strength of the applied layer. It is made by welding from wire of various thicknesses, both with and without galvanized coating.
Mesh – Chainlink
The most famous metal mesh. It is made by weaving wire with a diameter of 1 – 3 mm. Its production can use high-alloy carbon steel coated with a protective coating of zinc or PVC.
| Advantages | Flaws |
| The metal mesh has a weave of wires that are not fastened together. This feature does not create stress when tensioned, reinforcing the applied layer more efficiently, making it denser and more even. | Large mesh weight due to frequent weaving; |
| Withstands sudden temperature changes without succumbing to deformation; | Complexity of installation and the need for frequent fastening to the wall; |
| To get a piece the right size It is not necessary to cut the sheet, violating the integrity of the galvanized coating. It is enough to “unbraid” one twig and separate the parts. | High cost even without a protective coating. |
| Withstands large layers of plaster. |
Main application:
- Facade mesh is indispensable when plastering walls built from adobe brick or clay;
- Use for the construction of various types of fences and enclosures.
All-metal expanded metal mesh
Perforation is a unique metal mesh made from a single sheet without welding or weaving. In addition to its absolute integrity, such facade and internal mesh for plaster has a lot of positive performance characteristics:
- If you reinforce the plaster layer with this particular wire, you will give it increased resistance to impacts and other mechanical characteristics;
- Protecting the plaster layer from the appearance of cracks and various deformations;
- Resistance to thermal and chemical influences;
- Not affected by moisture;
- Works great in tandem with any plaster solutions and thermal insulation systems;
- Perfect for finishing various surfaces: wooden, plaster, concrete, brick, stone;
- Creates good adhesion;
- Suitable for arranging ceilings and complex textured surfaces;
- Easy to cut;
- Allows you to apply a small layer of plaster mortar.
Just like all materials, perforation has some disadvantages:
- Relatively heavy weight;
- It is manufactured only with a galvanized layer, which increases its cost several times;
- Difficulty in winding into rolls and returning to the original flat position.
Cutting is not only an internal and facade plaster mesh, it can also be used for insulating buildings lined with siding; insulation of pipelines; fastening thermal insulation blocks; boiler surface protection; production of containers and fencing.
The dimensions of the notch are quite varied. It can have cell sizes from 3 mm to 50 mm in width, and a height from 1 mm to 25 mm, while the wall thickness can vary from 0.5 mm to 8 mm.
Criteria for choosing a mesh for plastering walls
As you can see, the range of mesh roll material is quite extensive. To make the right choice, you need to know not only what surface the plaster layer will be applied to, but also under what conditions the reinforcing mesh for plaster will be used:
- If a layer of more than 30 cm is expected, then a metal mesh is used. When applying a plaster surface less than 30 cm thick, plastic or fiberglass mesh is suitable;
- The chain-link is ideal for walls made of materials that undergo changes under temperature influences: polystyrene concrete and wood;
- For foam concrete walls plastic mesh is more profitable;
- If you plan to texture the facade using a grid, then fiberglass roll material is most suitable for these purposes;
- Welded metal mesh is indispensable for working on walls subject to heavy settlement.
Any type of mesh for plastering walls is perfect for independent use. The selected video material will tell you about the intricacies of selection and installation.
During construction building structures There is a need to provide reinforcement with increased strength and stability of parts of the structure. For masonry, reinforcement concrete screed To increase the strength of the plaster layer, as well as strengthen the facades of buildings, a reinforced mesh is required. It is also used for foundations. Covering the wall surface with reinforcing mesh ensures durability and increases adhesion finishing solutions. The meshes are made from different material and differ in a set of characteristics.
What is reinforcing mesh used for?
When carrying out construction activities, they are widely used cement mortars, concrete mixtures, as well as finishing compositions. After hardening, they acquire strength, but crack under the influence of bending loads, deformations and torques associated with shrinkage of the structure and the influence of various factors. Reinforcing mesh allows you to increase the resistance and strength of erected structures. It ensures the integrity of the binder or finishing composition after hardening, increasing its mechanical strength.
To carry out finishing and construction activities, specialized stores offer an expanded range of mesh reinforcement with small and large cell sizes.
To ensure the durability of building structures, reinforcing mesh is used
Depending on the cell size and the material used for manufacturing, meshes are used to perform a wide range of tasks:
- increasing the strength characteristics of foundations. Without additional reinforcement, the foundation is exposed to natural factors cracks, gradually causing shrinkage of individual parts of the structure;
- prevent cracking of the screed when pouring floors. The use of mesh is especially important when using fragile foam sheets as a heat insulator. The mesh ensures the integrity and durability of the array, preventing the formation of cracks;
- increasing adhesion between the finishing composition and the wall surface. The mesh provides improved contact of the plaster mortar applied from the outside or inside of the building. When finishing wooden, metal, and painted surfaces, a mesh is necessary;
- ensuring increased reliability of fastening finishing materials And decorative coatings to the surface. The mesh reinforcement acts as a connecting element, ensuring strong contact with the base facing materials and various types of finishes;
- improving the contact of the plaster mixture applied to the surface of sheet foam or drywall. The finishing operation will not give the desired effect without mesh reinforcement. Without reinforcement, when performing plastering activities, cracking of the plaster mortar after hardening is inevitable.
With an increased thickness of the finishing composition, which is more than 20 mm, mesh reinforcement does not allow the integrity of the protective and decorative layer to be damaged after hardening. The scope of use of the grid is not limited to this. is in demand in the construction of building walls to increase the strength of aerated concrete or foam block masonry. Mesh material is also used for rough finishing of ceiling surfaces.
Reinforcing mesh can be different types Types of mesh used for reinforcement
Meshes used to solve construction problems and carry out finishing activities are divided into groups depending on the material used for their manufacture, cell size and production technology. Each type has its own advantages, differs in performance characteristics, specific application and cost.
Broadly speaking, meshes are divided into the following types:
- metal mesh reinforcement;
- plastic materials for reinforcement;
- fiberglass reinforcement.
Let us dwell in more detail on the features, varieties and use of each type of mesh material for reinforcement.
Applications, types and advantages of metal mesh
Reinforcing metal mesh is a widely used material for strengthening various surfaces.
Metal mesh is used to create a reliable screed Mesh material made of steel is used for numerous purposes:
- arrangement of a reliable screed when pouring floor bases, including heated floors;
- ensuring reliable contact of the plaster material when eliminating significant defects on the surface of the walls;
- preventing peeling of the binder composition from the surface being treated and preventing local swelling;
- increasing the stability of walls, the masonry of which is carried out from cellular aerated concrete and foam blocks.
The cross-sectional diameter of the wire and the dimensions of the side of the cell differ depending on the purpose of the reinforcing material:
- For plastering activities, mesh reinforcement made of steel wire with a cross-section of up to 1.5 mm is used. The cell has the shape of a square, its side does not exceed 30 mm;
- The screed is reinforced with a reinforced mesh. The wire diameter exceeds 3 mm. A mesh with a square cell is used, the side of which is more than 100 mm.
In terms of wire gauge and mesh size, the mesh material for wall reinforcement corresponds to the size of the plaster mesh.
Steel mesh is supplied in various forms:
- roll. This mesh is used for plastering work;
- sectional The material is used for screed and masonry.
Depending on design features and manufacturing technologies are applied various types steel mesh:
Steel reinforcing mesh is divided into several types - welded It is made by fixing perpendicularly located steel rods spot welding at intersections. Wire of various sections is used for production. The welded mesh number corresponds to the side of the wire mesh. To protect the mesh from corrosion, galvanizing of the wire is used or applied polymer coating. Non-galvanized mesh is also used in the construction industry;
- expanded metal. It is produced at special equipment by stamping a solid sheet of metal and then drawing out the stamped sheet. Expanded metal is used for reinforcement when performing masonry work, as well as in the process of facing activities. To prevent corrosive destruction of the steel mesh, the material is subjected to galvanic treatment;
- chain-link It is made from carbon steel by forming zigzag wire segments and then joining them into a single piece. For the manufacture of chain-link, wire with alloying additives and a protective zinc coating is also used, which increases the corrosion resistance of the material. Chain-linking is traditionally used to reinforce walls, onto which an increased layer of plaster mixture is applied.
The main advantages of steel mesh:
- ease of use;
- material flexibility;
- increased safety margin;
- resistance to temperature changes;
- maintaining integrity when cutting.
The advantages also include ease of transportation of rolled material and low weight of sectional elements. Thanks to its range of advantages, steel mesh is used to solve various problems in the construction industry.
Types, uses and benefits of plastic mesh
Plastic mesh is made from polymer materials that are characterized by increased strength.
Plastic mesh has different thickness Various types of plastic are used for manufacturing:
- polyurethane;
- polypropylene.
The mesh base has different thicknesses. The reinforcing material is distinguished by its cell configuration, which has the shape of a rhombus or square. Plastic mesh is used to perform work on the exterior and interior of the building. No plastic reinforcement required for installation special training. First, a thin layer of plaster is applied to the surface, followed by pressing the mesh into it. The main areas of application are plastering and facade reinforcement.
Main advantages plastic mesh:
- increased tensile strength;
- resistance to impact high humidity and temperature changes;
- environmental cleanliness;
- affordable price.
The material easily takes the shape of radius surfaces, is safe when in contact with electrical wires and does not affect negative impact to receive radio signals.
Fiberglass reinforcement mesh
Fiberglass mesh material for reinforcement operational characteristics similar to plastic mesh. Performance properties fiberglass fabric is determined by its density.
Fiberglass mesh is designed for external and interior plaster premises It is this indicator that determines the safety margin of the reinforcing material, its reliability and area of use:
- finishing work indoors is carried out with a mesh whose density does not exceed 160 g/m2;
- to implement facade finishing and for external plaster, fiberglass mesh with a density of up to 220 g/m2 is used;
- strengthening of the basement part of the structure and reinforcement of loaded structures is carried out with reinforced mesh, specific gravity which reaches 300 g/m2.
Fiberglass mesh is sold in roll or strip form. It is designed to enhance plasterboard joints, increasing the adhesion of the finishing material and preventing cracking.
Advantages of fiberglass mesh:
- increased strength;
- increased moisture resistance;
- reasonable cost;
- harmlessness to others.
The use of glass fibers that are resistant to aggressive environments for the manufacture of mesh increases the resistance of the mesh to working solutions and alkalis.
How is reinforced mesh used to strengthen building structures?
You should study the installation technology and fastening rules when reinforcing mesh is used. How to use mesh material can be found on construction sites.
The reinforcing mesh is attached to the wall by pressing it into plaster mixture Mesh mounting options:
- using electric welding, which allows you to attach a steel mesh to a metal base;
- stapler providing reliable fastening plastic mesh staples to a wooden surface;
- bent nails, self-tapping screws or screws, allowing you to press the thick mesh to the base;
- special dowels designed for attaching reinforcing material to brick or concrete walls;
- by pressing into the plaster mixture when performing finishing activities.
It is possible to install the mesh without fixing it when screeding.
Having decided to use mesh for reinforcement, consult with a sales consultant in a specialized store or take advantage of qualified advice from professional builders.
Please note the following material characteristics:
- base material;
- jumper diameter;
- cell dimensions;
- availability of coverage;
- strength properties;
- quality of material;
- manufacturing method.
Choose a material with increased strength and increased resistance to alkaline environments. Errors in the choice of mesh cause the formation of cracks due to destruction or insufficient strength of the mesh reinforcement.
Conclusion
A properly selected reinforcement mesh will provide the required safety margin, preserve the integrity of the binder material, and also prevent the formation of local defects on the surface of the walls. It is important to understand the types of mesh reinforcement, study the specifics of use and select the necessary mesh for cementing screeds, applying plaster or performing other types of finishing and cladding work.
Hello dear friends! Today we will look at a very important component of facade finishing - a mesh for plastering walls. When insulating a house with thermal insulation material followed by plastering, one cannot do without the reinforcement process.
For this, a special material is used - reinforcing mesh for plastering walls.
What is its purpose, is it possible to do without a construction mesh for plaster when performing the “wet facade” section, what types are offered today on the building materials markets and how to make a choice? We'll tell you below.
Properties:
- moisture resistance, resistance to temperature changes;
- low elongation and deformation rates;
- high tensile strength;
- low specific gravity, does not weigh down the structure;
- resistance to aggressive environments.
All these properties help to significantly improve the quality of thermal insulation, as well as significantly extend the service life of the thermal insulation and decorative layer. But all this cannot be done without first reinforcing the wall.
Fiberglass mesh - made of fiberglass, it is often used as a reinforcing mesh for plastering walls. Depending on the purpose they are classified into:
- conventional, used for the base layer of plaster;
- reinforced, used for reinforcing special structures, for example, when insulating the foundation, ground floors etc.;
- architectural, used for special architectural elements.
Metal mesh for plaster or galvanized mesh - this mesh has a long service life and can be used in finishing any facades. For example, metal mesh for plaster can be used when finishing a façade with tiles (they are heavy and require a strong reinforcing layer) or a plinth when finishing with stone.
And also when choosing a facade mesh for plaster, be sure to take into account its density. Since strength and other important physical characteristics depend on its density:
- up to 90g/m2 – for interior decoration and painting work;
- from 90 to 220 g/m2 – to strengthen the plaster of facades, we recommend using this mesh in thermal insulation work;
- more than 220g/m2 – to strengthen building elements subject to maximum load or located in the ground.
What does the color say?
Today at construction stores you can find fiberglass mesh for reinforcement different colors. There are five basic colors: white, blue, green, orange, yellow.
Why do they come in different colors? Manufacturers do this so that meshes of different densities and with different cell sizes are visually different from each other, and the buyer can easily determine which mesh for plaster he needs and which mesh to choose.
For example, from one well-known manufacturer, orange fiberglass mesh has a density of 150 g/m2 and a cell size of 5x5 mm, white - 45 g/m2 and 2x2 mm, respectively. Today, when choosing, I would not focus only on color of this product. Below we will describe the stages of selection; after reading this, you will be more prepared and will easily cope with the task of selection.
Choosing a façade mesh
When choosing a material for reinforcement when installing thermal insulation, you should pay attention to the following indicators:
- Density, it should be from 145 to 160 g/m2, optimal size 5x5 mm.
- Weaving quality and strength. To do this, just take a small piece and crumple it up. A good mesh should not tear, deform and quickly return to its original shape.
- Resistance to aggressive environments. The material must be treated with special alkali-resistant compounds.
- Price. Cost of reinforcing material according to general rule should not exceed more than 5% of the total cost of insulation.
- Safety. Do not hesitate to ask the seller for a hygiene certificate.
Fiberglass mesh for facades is available in rolls of various lengths (usually 20 meters or 50 meters). The roll must be smooth and dense, and it must have a label indicating the manufacturer and characteristics of the material.
How to choose the right mesh?
Experienced builders have their own rules for choosing a grid, and we will tell you about them. It is imperative to check it for tensile strength. Take a piece of mesh in your hand and squeeze it; if it is of high quality, then it should return to its original shape - straighten.
First, you need to decide why you need it, what you will do: plaster, lay tiles, what is the thickness of the planned plaster, etc. Let's look at the choice using an example:
- If the layer of our plaster (finish) does not exceed 5 mm, then it is recommended to use fiberglass mesh for reinforcement. I almost forgot to say that the reinforced mesh for plaster evens out the wall we are working on a little more. It is clear that it cannot even out large differences, but it smooths out very well.
- Now let's consider the case when the plaster layer is more than 5 mm, then it is necessary to use a galvanized metal mesh, it will make the layer very strong. But be careful, we are talking about galvanized mesh, not steel mesh. Under no circumstances should steel be used for finishing facades, as it oxidizes (rusts) and can ruin everything for you.
- If you are already finishing the finishing and you have a finishing one left, thin layer, then you can use a fabric with very small cells.
- If work is being done on a plasterboard surface, then a plastic grid will do.
Conclusion
Since the main purpose of the plaster mesh is to create a powerful reinforcing base for further fixation of the entire mass of plaster or another option on it exterior finishing façade of the building, its choice must be taken seriously.
Can you imagine what will happen if you skimp on it and as a result everything cracks? decorative plaster, which is significantly more expensive than even the most expensive façade mesh. Or it will start to fall off decorative tiles, which is also not cheap. There is only one conclusion - there is no need to save on facade mesh.
Anyone who has worked on wall finishing knows that when applying a thick layer of plaster, the material may not be able to withstand its own weight and begin to peel off from the wall surface. To prevent this from happening, a reinforcing mesh is used. It is mounted on the wall and takes on part of the load.
In what cases is a mesh needed?
If the walls are plastered without a mesh, there is a possibility of the material peeling off under the influence of its own weight. Thanks to the reinforcing mesh, it is created monolithic slab, which can withstand any load. For plaster of different thicknesses, different meshes are created, designed for a specific load.
The use of a mesh makes it possible to form a durable layer of mortar, on which cracks will not appear even with prolonged use of the room. This result cannot be achieved without the use of the described products.
It is worth noting that even with improper mixing or non-compliance with the temperature level, the mesh helps maintain the integrity of the plaster. There are special meshes for facades that are not subject to corrosion.
Types of grids
On the market building materials You can find many varieties of meshes on which plaster is applied. In order not to make a mistake when choosing, it is worth considering the main types of such products and their features:
To choose from the proposed options, it is enough to determine in what conditions the mesh will be used. If you need to plaster the facade, it is better to buy metal or fiberglass products with large cells. When applying the compositions to interior walls You can use a plastic mesh.
How to attach the plaster mesh
To understand how to properly attach the mesh to the wall, it is worth considering the two most popular types of mesh - fiberglass and metal. It is much easier to secure the first named type of product, since for this you only need to screw in several screws at an equal distance from each other. Such fastenings are sufficient to securely hold the mesh.
To keep the mesh more securely, you should roll it out across its entire width in one piece, without dividing the product into several. Vertical beacons are installed at a distance of about two meters from each other during installation. After the mesh is hung on the screws, the thrown plaster seals it to the wall, so additional elements no fastenings needed.
The installation process for metal mesh is slightly different. This is due to the fact that under its own weight such a product is not able to be securely held on the mounts. Also, the cells of metal mesh are large and require additional fastening with mounting tape.
To secure it you only need to cut off a part mounting tape so that it can completely cover one cell. After cutting the mounting tape, it is fixed to the wall with self-tapping screws. You need to calculate the distance between the fastenings in such a way that the mesh does not sag on any section of the wall.
Surface preparation
Before you start plastering the walls, you need to clean the surface of dirt and old finishing materials. After finishing work there should not be any additional materials, as they can cause peeling of the plaster.
After cleaning the surface of the walls, it is necessary to apply a primer. Such compositions increase the strength of the wall and improve the quality of adhesion. They also prevent mold and corrosion. The primer helps the surface dry quickly and facilitates better absorption of the compounds that are applied after it.
Applying plaster
After preparing the surface and fixing the reinforcing mesh to it, plaster is applied in several layers. To properly apply the composition to the surface, you should consider the features of creating different layers:
First layer. Plaster is usually applied in two or three layers, depending on the material of the walls. Concrete, for example, requires three coats. The first of them is called “spray”. Plaster on at this stage It has a creamy consistency and is thrown onto the wall surface in any order. The composition can be spread, but throwing it on allows you to speed up the process. After applying plaster to a certain area of the wall, you need to wash the tool. After casting, the composition is leveled with a two-handed spatula from bottom to top.
Second layer. After the first layer has completely dried, you need to knead the plaster, the consistency of which should resemble dough. Then you need to throw the composition on the wall and, taking a trowel, spread it in the horizontal and vertical directions. It is after applying the second layer that the reinforcing mesh is completely covered with plaster. If it still protrudes to the surface, you need to apply the plaster again.
Third layer. At this stage, you need to level the composition more carefully so that no errors remain on the surface of the walls. Before applying the finishing layer, you need to wet the surface of the plaster.
This mesh plastering technology is universal and can be used when working with walls made of various materials.
The final stage of work
After the plaster has completely dried, it must be prepared for fixing finishing materials. To paint and wallpaper, just sand the surface with sandpaper. If there are noticeable unevenness on the wall, you need to start using the largest brand of paper. For ease of work, a piece of product is clamped on a grater. Grinding is done in a circular motion with little effort so as not to create new defects on the surface.
When the wall becomes uniform, you need to change the brand and continue grouting. If the surface will be painted, you need to take P120 paper. During the entire process, you should use goggles and a respirator to protect yourself from dust.
Since it is quite difficult to grind the surface in the corners, it is worth working either without a grater or using bars with sharp corners. If you want to make the work process easier and faster, you can purchase an electric grater. But to treat the walls of one apartment, it is not profitable to buy such a product. After sanding, you need to sweep away the dust with a brush.
Applying plaster under wallpaper and painting
Before starting work, you should determine exactly how the room will look and what will be used as finishing materials. If you choose wallpaper, you need to determine its type and thickness in advance. If they are thin, you need to apply several layers of leveling plaster. This will allow you to hang the wallpaper without any unevenness or bubbles.
For the room in which wallpaper will be hung, it is better to purchase ready-made dry mixtures, since using them you can prepare higher-quality plaster.
If plastering the wall surface occurs before painting, you should carefully prepare the wall, without leaving even small irregularities on it. The whole process is carried out in several stages:
- first, a leveling layer is thinly applied;
- then, if necessary, two more layers are applied to eliminate defects;
