{"id":4014248,"date":"2021-09-11T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-09-11T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/housecaravan.com\/?p=4014248"},"modified":"2021-12-09T04:14:41","modified_gmt":"2021-12-09T09:14:41","slug":"is-cement-stronger-than-plaster-of-paris","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/housecaravan.com\/is-cement-stronger-than-plaster-of-paris\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Cement Stronger than Plaster of Paris?"},"content":{"rendered":"

This article discusses if cement is stronger than plaster of Paris. Cement and plaster of Paris are materials used for various applications. The material that is best for you will have to depend on the type of project that you are working on as well as your needs and preferences. Both have their pros and cons, but which one is a stronger material? We will find out below.<\/p>\n

Is cement stronger than plaster of Paris? Once it has been set, cement is harder and is commonly used in construction. Cement is made of clay and limestone. On the other hand, the plaster of Paris is made from gypsum. It is commonly used for molding, casting, and coving. Plaster of Paris sets quickly as compared to cement and a popular tool in the ceramics industry.<\/strong><\/p>\n

What is stronger than plaster of Paris? Is plaster of Paris strong? What is the difference between plaster of Paris and white cement? Can white cement be used for plastering? These are some of the questions that we will discuss. To learn more about the cement and plaster of Paris, check out the rest of the article below.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Photo by Rodolfo Quir\u00f3s<\/a><\/strong> from Pexels<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Is Plaster of Paris Strong?<\/h2>\n

Plaster of Paris is a hard material once it has been completely set. On the other hand, it is not strong as compared to cement or concrete.<\/strong> Take note that the plaster of Paris is a porous material and water can easily penetrate into it. When continuously exposed to water, the plaster of Paris can get damaged. It is not ideal for making thin castings.<\/p>\n

What is Stronger than Plaster of Paris?<\/h2>\n

Hydrocal is stronger than plaster of Paris. It can also take a lot of details and does not slough off. While hydrocal is an excellent product, it is usually sold in really small packages and can be expensive.<\/strong> You can also check out this article that we have shared that discusses if hydrocal is stronger than plaster of Paris<\/a>. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.<\/p>\n

What is the Difference between the Plaster of Paris and White Cement?<\/h2>\n

The main difference between plaster of Paris and white cement is their composition. The plaster of Paris is made from gypsum while white cement is made from clay and limestone. Cement is also stronger as compared to the plaster of Paris.<\/strong> Let us learn more about their differences below.<\/p>\n

Plaster of Paris<\/h3>\n

Plaster of Paris is made from gypsum. It has a white color and can be purchased in powder form. The plaster of Paris is also called gypsum plaster. To create plaster of Paris, gypsum is burned at high temperatures. As it burns, it converts into a calcium sulphate<\/a> form. After that, it is grinder in a grinding machine to produce a powder form.<\/p>\n

Plaster of Paris has many applications. Aside from casting and molding, it is also used for wall painting. On the other hand, you need to take note that it is only ideal for interior wall painting. Plaster of Paris is also used for painting false ceilings, making sculptures, medical casts, and making decorative items.<\/p>\n

White Cement<\/h3>\n

White cement is similar to grey Portland cement. The only difference is the color and fineness. White cement is determined by its raw materials as well as the process of manufacture. Different substances produce the grey color of the cement. During the white cement manufacture, these substances are kept at the least percentage.<\/p>\n

Moreover, clay and limestone is the main material for manufacturing white cement. However, the manufacturing process is similar to that of OPC cement<\/a>. The only difference is that in the burning process and the fineness of the material.<\/p>\n

Can You Add Colored Powder to Plaster of Paris?<\/h2>\n

The colored powder can be added to the plaster of Paris. Color powder is the best choice, but you can also use paint colorants depending on the project that you are working on. Once the plaster is mixed, you can add the liquid colorants.<\/strong> On the other hand, the colored powder can be mixed with plaster before water is added. This option also offers better color distribution.<\/p>\n

Moreover, the colored powder also has options. You can customize the color by mix different colors together. Make sure to test small batches to find out what the final product will look like. The colors are usually lighter, but you can make it darker by adding a finish to the plaster after it has cured.<\/p>\n

Cement Plaster Vs Gypsum Plaster<\/h2>\n

Cement plaster has its pros and cons. While both are strong and durable materials, there are different compositions added which makes them different.<\/strong> Below, we will discuss the difference between cement plaster and gypsum plaster.<\/p>\n

Cement Plaster<\/h3>\n

Mixing cement, sand, and water creates cement plaster. The thickness of the cement plaster usually depends on the surface that needs to be plastered.<\/p>\n

Pros<\/h4>\n

Cement plasters can be used for external and internal plastering. It is moisture resistant which makes it ideal for plastering exterior walls. Using cement plaster will protect the wall from the different weather conditions and environmental pollution. Cement plaster is also durable and it helps to strengthen the walls. Moreover, cement plaster is a sturdy base for drilling and will not develop cracks. Hence, it is a good choice for walls that have electrical fittings and wirings.<\/p>\n

Cons<\/h4>\n

A disadvantage of using cement plaster is that the surface tends to look uneven and rough. Because of this, it needs an additional process to smoothen it out. Usually, plaster of Paris is added to the plastered walls for a smooth finish. Moreover, cement plastered walls and ceilings need water curing. Otherwise, it will not gain proper strength and can develop cracks. Aside from that, the surface of the cement plastered walls can also shrink and cause hairline cracks.<\/p>\n

Gypsum Plaster<\/h3>\n

Gypsum plaster is a ready-made plaster that can be used by adding water into it. It is in powder form and has a white color. Moreover, it is heated at specific temperatures to produce different types of plasters.<\/p>\n

Pros<\/h4>\n

The good thing about gypsum plaster is that it does not need punning or any process to have a smooth surface. This will save you time and money. Moreover, it is available in a ready-made form for easy and convenient use. Because gypsum plaster does not expand or contract, shrinkage is not an issue. It is extracted from gypsum rock and dehydrated to create a powder form.<\/p>\n

Another advantage that you can get from gypsum plaster is that it can be recycled and reused. It is a fast-drying material. It is usually used in walls because it has a low thermal conductivity and can keep your home cool. Aside from that, it is also fire and mold-resistant.<\/p>\n

Cons<\/h4>\n

A disadvantage of gypsum plaster is that it is only recommended for interior plastering. Take note that this type of plaster is not moisture-resistant and should not be used in damp areas like the bathrooms, basements, or kitchens. Moreover, you should be careful when working with gypsum plaster. It is a soft material and can easily break or develop cracks.<\/p>\n

\u2705 Video – Difference between Gypsum Plaster & Cement Plaster<\/h5>\n

Engineering Motive shared the video below on YouTube. It talks about the difference between gypsum plaster and cement plaster. For an in-depth discussion, check out the video below.<\/p>\n\n\n

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