Plastering
Plaster is a thin layer of mortar applied over the masonry surface and it acts as a damp-proof coat over the brick masonry work. Plastering also provides a finished surface over the masonry that is firm and smooth hence it enhances the appearance of the building.
The primary objectives of plastering are to protect the surface from atmospheric influences to cover the defective workmanship in masonry, to conceal porous materials and to provide a suitable surface for painting.
What You Need To Know About Plastering
- The main objective of plastering is to protect the exposed surface of the masonry.
- In plastering, lime, sand and cement are used.
- Plastering is done on both sides of the surface (both inside and outside).
- Large amount of material is required in plastering work.
- After the process of plastering, the surface becomes smooth and plain.
- With plastering, the defects of masonry are not visible.
- Plastering can be done in all types of brick surface.
- Used to conceal defective workmanship.
- It requires comparatively leaner mix.
Pointing
Pointing is applying a small amount of mortar into the face joint between bricks (either newly laid or in old brickwork). In pointing, mortar is packed tightly in thin layers and tooled to a smooth, concave, finished surface. In new brickwork, pointing can apply harder mortar to increase weather protection on exposed faces. In old brickwork, pointing is often used to repair mortar joints which have been eroded by exposure to the elements. The main advantage of carrying out brick pointing work is that it helps extend the life of the building.
Types of pointing include:
- Flush pointing
- Recessed pointing
- Stuck pointing
- Tuck pointing
- V-pointing
- Weathered pointing
What You Need To Know About Pointing
- The main objective of pointing is to ensure that only joints are properly filled with mortar.
- In pointing, only cement motor is used.
- Pointing is done only on the outer side of the wall.
- Less amount of material is required in pointing.
- After pointing process, the surface does not become plain as in plastering.
- With pointing, the defects of masonry can be seen.
- Pointing is only suitable for first class bricks.
- Used where architectural appearance is required.
- Requires comparatively richer mix.
Difference Between Plastering And Pointing In Tabular Form
BASIS OF COMPARISON | PLASTERING | POINTING |
Main Objective | The main objective of plastering is to protect the exposed surface of the masonry. | The main objective of pointing is to ensure that only joints are properly filled with mortar. |
Material | In plastering, lime, sand and cement are used. | In pointing, only cement motor is used. |
How It Is Done | Plastering is done on both sides of the surface (both inside and outside). | Pointing is done only on the outer side of the wall. |
Amount of Material Required | Large amount of material is required in plastering work. | Less amount of material is required in pointing. |
After The Process | After the process of plastering, the surface becomes smooth and plain. | After pointing process, the surface does not become plain as in plastering. |
Defects Of Masonry | With plastering, the defects of masonry are not visible. | With pointing, the defects of masonry can be seen. |
Flexibility | Plastering can be done in all types of brick surface. | Pointing is only suitable for first class bricks. |
Use | Used to conceal defective workmanship. | Used where architectural appearance is required. |
Mix | It requires comparatively leaner mix. | Requires comparatively richer mix. |