It is possible to achieve a stunning stucco finish on the walls of your home by using plaster. When it's applied correctly, the material will look beautiful for years and last just as long. However, cold weather can have a damaging effect on the product, potentially requiring professional plaster repair. The following guide outlines what could happen to your plaster during winter and what solutions can help curb issues.

How Does Cold Weather Affect Plaster?

When the temperature outside drops below freezing, sometimes fully cured plaster walls will burst or spall. This typically happens with improperly formulated, mixed, and applied plaster, as it allows the product's membrane to become completely saturated with water. When the liquid freezes and then thaws in warmer temperatures, it will cause cracks or chips on the surface.

Another effect of colder temperatures on plaster walls is the appearance of efflorescence, a whitish film that develops on the surface. It is composed of salt and is typically formed during periods of damp, chilly weather. Due to the slower evaporation rate in colder temperatures, moisture migrates to the outer layer of the plaster along with the dissolved salts rather than dissipating within the cladding. When water reaches the wall's surface, it evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals.

What Can You Do to Prevent Problems?

Good workmanship at the start of your plaster project can reduce the likelihood of spalling and efflorescence. While neither of these issues will compromise the structural integrity of your building, they will certainly detract from its appearance. 

If plaster repairs are necessary, they may demand substantial resources to correct. When fixing problems, a contractor might remove loose plaster, prime and reseal cracked areas, clamp the walls to hold loose bits of material in place, and refinish the surfaces.

If you have significant damage to your plaster walls, turn to Old World Plastering in Cincinnati, OH. Owner Greg Colina personally overlooks all plaster repairs and restorations, ensuring top-notch services to residential and commercial businesses throughout the area. These plastering contractors also offer ornamental design, statue restoration, and historical preservation. Visit the website to see examples of their recent plaster repair projects, or call (513) 481-1122 to inquire about your needs.