Facade finishing is one of the most important construction operations. Coating external walls exposed to precipitation, cyclic freezing/freezing and exposure to harsh ultraviolet rays. Such difficult operating conditions place increased demands on the quality of finishing. Eliminate defects façade walls oh very expensive and time consuming. You will have to install scaffolding, wait for good weather, and remove construction debris. To eliminate the occurrence of unpleasant situations, you need to take all measures to prevent them.

Finishing of facade walls is carried out various materials and technology. Reinforcing stack is used in two cases.

For improvement performance characteristics plaster layer. For such purposes, it is better to use a metal mesh made of galvanized wire.

All metal mesh

The fact is that among the many advantages of foam blocks, you must definitely pay attention to one very significant drawback - low physical strength. One more problem - concrete blocks They begin to crumble when they freeze/thaw under conditions of high specific humidity. Eventually cement plaster begins to peel off with all the negative consequences.

The reinforcing mesh allows the plaster to adhere to the wall surface. Conversations that such a mesh should be used when the plaster is thick, and that this prevents cracks from appearing on the plaster, are only partially confirmed. Firstly, there are simpler and cheaper methods to prevent cracks from appearing in thick plaster. The simplest one is to throw the solution thin layer in several stages. Secondly, increase the adhesion of the solution with façade wall possible due to a slight increase in the amount of cement in the solution. If this is not enough, then spray it with cement laitance.

To protect façade wall insulation from damage. Reinforcing facade mesh is used during the finishing of foam insulation boards.

Not to improve the fixation of glue to the surface of polystyrene foam and to prevent cracks, as some “sofa” builders write, but precisely for mechanical protection.

Why do we say this? The surface of expanded polystyrene is protected from negative impact ultraviolet rays and, oddly enough, damage from birds. For some unknown reason, birds are very fond of pecking at polystyrene foam; if you leave it unprotected, many large and small depressions will soon appear on the surface. Conclusion - polystyrene foam needs to be covered. The cheapest and most reliable method is to use glue.

By the way, the advertising characteristics of manufacturers of plastic reinforcing mesh “they are not afraid of UV” do not in any way affect their actual performance indicators. The fact is that even the thinnest layer of glue or other cement-sand mixture does not miss completely ultra-violet rays. Why should the consumer pay for features that he does not need? And one more nuance. Most often, builders fix the reinforcing mesh on the entire wall. We think this is done or out of ignorance physical properties, or the desire to earn more. We recommend using reinforcing mesh to a height of 1.5–2.0 meters; there is no need to go higher. Can't hurt anyone so high finishing screed on foam plastic. Mechanical damage occurs due to various impacts, careless maintenance work near the facade wall, etc.

Types of façade reinforcing mesh

Facade reinforcing mesh is made of galvanized wire or polymers. The former are used for facade plaster, and the latter universal use.

Modern facade mesh

Metal mesh fixation technology

Metal mesh is used only for cement-sand facade plasters; foam insulation is not finished with it. The reason is the small thickness of the screed on foam boards. But a metal mesh cannot be aligned with such precision; it must be pressed down with a thick layer of mortar. Metal façade reinforcing mesh can withstand great forces; it is used when it is necessary to apply a thick layer of plaster on an uneven base.

The algorithm for fixing it has several features, the implementation of which guarantees the expected effect. The mesh can be laid in both vertical and horizontal stripes. This does not matter for the strength of the plaster; decide for yourself how it is more convenient for you to work. How to properly fix a metal mesh to a façade wall?

Step 1. Take the dimensions of the wall and cut the metal mesh along them. Select a cutting tool based on the wire diameter. Universal tool– metal scissors.

If they are not there, then a thin mesh with a wire diameter of up to 0.8 mm can be cut with ordinary scissors. True, after this these scissors will have to be sharpened; they will no longer cut paper.

Step 2. The metal mesh can be fixed with dowels; the length of the hardware should ensure strong fixation. For facade walls made of foam blocks, you can use ordinary nails 80–90 mm long. They are easily hammered into blocks with an ordinary hammer, and working with them is much faster and easier. Nails are much cheaper than dowels, and the quality of fixation is no different. Use dowels only on brick or concrete facade walls.

Step 3. Electric drill Using a hammer drill, drill the first hole for the mesh. The depth of the holes should be several centimeters greater than the length of the plastic part. Otherwise, it is impossible to insert the dowel to the required depth - the hole fills a little with brick chips during drilling and reduces its effective depth. It is difficult to remove it from there; it is better to drill more.

Important. The height of the protruding part of the dowels should not exceed the thickness plaster mortar. Monitor this parameter over the entire area of ​​the façade wall so that you don’t have to adjust the dowels during plastering.

Step 4. Drill holes along one line at a distance of about fifty centimeters, hang a mesh on each dowel. Pull it a little, do not allow large irregularities. The position of the line does not matter; it can be vertical or horizontal depending on the method of fastening the reinforcing metal mesh.

Step 5. Check the position of the opposite edge of the grid; if it lies unevenly, then move the grid onto adjacent cells.

Fastening the plaster mesh - diagram

Step 6. Everything is fine - continue to fix the mesh, install the dowels in a checkerboard pattern. Most metal mesh is one meter wide; to secure it you will need three rows of hardware.

Important. Where two rolls overlap, install the dowels at a distance of approximately 10 cm from the edge. Two strips of reinforcing mesh will be hung simultaneously on these dowels.

Step 7 In window and doorways the mesh is cut to size. But there’s nothing wrong if you don’t cut it off, but simply bend it. Just make sure that the edges of the bent sections do not protrude beyond the thickness of the plaster layer.

When plastering such a façade wall, the mortar must be applied in several stages. For the first time, the mass should be slightly thicker than for final leveling. Specific values depend on several indicators and are determined individually taking into account the practical experience of the master. The consistency of the solution is influenced by the weather, the ability of facade walls to absorb moisture, the linearity of the wall, the maximum parameters of unevenness, etc.

Step-by-step instructions for fixing plastic mesh

The durability of its operation largely depends on the correct implementation of recommendations for installing plastic reinforcing mesh on foam insulation. In all cases, do not rush, work carefully. We have already mentioned that there is no need to reinforce the entire wall height; it is enough to protect only the lower vulnerable area. But these are our recommendations; if you have doubts, protect the entire surface of the façade wall.

Any brand of glue is suitable for gluing the mesh. Study the instructions, it should have high adhesion with plastic materials. In most cases, a finishing layer of adhesive several millimeters thick is applied over the plastic reinforcing mesh. Finish coating done facade paints or a thin layer of decorative plaster.

Step 1. Inspect the surface of the slabs. If they were fixed with dowels, then completely recess the caps and seal the recesses. You can close the gaps at the same time, but this is not necessary. The fact is that the cracks will automatically close during the application of the first layer.

Step 2. On the wall, draw a horizontal line along the height of the reinforcing layer. It will help you monitor the height of glue application. A thin layer of material dries quickly, and this not only causes an increase in material consumption, but also negatively affects the final leveling of the layer for painting.

Step 3. Prepare the glue according to the manufacturer's instructions. Always pour water into the container first, and then add the dry mixture. This technology will greatly simplify the mixing process. You can mix it manually with a trowel or using a mixing attachment for an electric drill.

The second method is not only easier, but also more effective. You need to stir for a few minutes, and then leave the mixture to stand for another 5-6 minutes. During this time, the moisture will be evenly distributed throughout the entire volume, and the smallest dry lumps of glue will completely disappear.

Step 4. The glue is applied to the wall with a spatula; the longer it is, the smoother the resulting surface is. Professionals work with spatulas up to 70 cm in size; beginners can initially use shorter ones.

Practical advice. If you are just learning how to apply glue to a surface, it is better to immediately get used to working with both hands. If one gets tired, use the other hand. Believe me, it is not so difficult, you just need to show a little endurance and patience.

Apply glue to the spatula with a trowel in the center of the tool. The quantity will be determined empirically. While applying the layer, hold the spatula at an angle to the foam boards and press with medium force. Aim for a layer thickness of approximately 2–3 millimeters. Don't prepare right away a large number of surface, for beginners two meters in length is enough. If you don’t have time to fix the mesh, the glue will harden and you’ll have to remove it old layer and make a new one.

Step 5. Try on the location of the plastic reinforcing mesh. If it does not fit into the window opening, trim the material.

Step 6. Glue one end of the mesh, align it horizontally to the length of the prepared section of the wall. Make sure that the mesh lies smoothly without distortions or bends; be guided by a pre-drawn line on the foam.

Practical advice. The mesh should overlap approximately ten centimeters. You may come across recommendations not to apply glue to the overlap of one line, but to do this simultaneously for two rows. We do not recommend doing this, it only complicates the work. Glue the first row of mesh along the entire width at once, including the overlap. The second line will be glued on top of the freshly applied glue. This method simplifies the fixation of the mesh and has a positive effect on quality.

Step 7 Use your hand to press the mesh onto the fresh glue in several places and check its position again.

Step 8 Using a spatula, begin to press the mesh onto the surface of the insulation. Carefully ensure that the glue of the first layer protrudes over the entire surface and evenly covers the mesh cells with front side. If there are areas where the adhesive is not thick enough, reapply it over the reinforcing mesh. Such omissions may appear in inexperienced craftsmen. Over time, you will learn to determine by eye optimal thickness There will be no more glue and gaps. Spread excess solution over free surfaces. You shouldn’t try to immediately make the surface perfectly flat, but you need to strive for such a result.

Step 9 Give time for the glue to dry. It is better to leave it overnight; finishing grouting of surfaces is recommended the next day.

That’s all the technology is, the surface of the façade wall is prepared for painting or finishing with other materials. We remind you once again that plastic reinforcing mesh on insulated facades is not used to prevent cracks on the adhesive surface, but to prevent mechanical damage polystyrene foam Keep this in mind when making your decision.

Facade mesh to protect construction sites

Compliance with safety precautions during construction work on multi-storey buildings– one of the main requirements for all developers. This is especially true for facilities built within cities. The façade mesh is fixed to scaffolding and prevents falls construction waste and tools on pedestrian walkways. For such purposes, the cheapest plastic reinforcing mesh is used; after dismantling, it is suitable for direct use.

"Emerald" - a new mesh for scaffolding

Question answer

Is it possible to repair peeled sections with reinforcement? facade mesh? It is possible, but it is better to avoid such situations. Unfortunately, in most cases, peeling appears several months or years after finishing the insulated façade walls.

How is the repair done?

1. Inspect the peeled area. Using your hand, check the strength of the mesh fixation next to the detached area. Prepare materials: glue and a piece of plastic reinforcing mesh. If the facade walls are painted, then you need to have the appropriate paint.
2. Pull the peeled mesh towards you and use a sharp mounting knife to cut it around the perimeter. Work very carefully, do not damage the foam. If the sect continues to flake off during cutting, great. In this way you remove the entire problem area; in any case, it would peel off over time.
3. Cut a new mesh for the patch, the size should be slightly larger than the cleared area for the overlap.
4. Remove the layer of old glue from the surface of the foam.
5. Use a spatula to carefully remove the remaining mesh from the surface. upper layer glue to the width of the new overlap. Apply the first layer of glue, embed the mesh into it and apply the second layer of glue.
6. After it dries, level it. Special attention pay attention to the docking area. It should be as smooth as possible without sharp changes in height.

How does the quality of plastic mesh depend on its price? Almost nothing. When choosing a mesh, pay attention to the thickness of the fabric and the size of the mesh cells. All other characteristics are nothing more than advertising gimmicks of the manufacturers.

What is better than a plastic anti-corrosion coating for metal reinforced mesh against galvanizing? Nothing, besides, the price of such a mesh is higher than with galvanized wire. You need to know that the adhesion of all cement mortars to plastics is significantly lower than to galvanized surfaces. As for the service life and load-bearing capacity, these indicators are absolutely identical.

Is it possible to do without reinforcing mesh when plastering uneven façade walls? Not only is it possible, but it is necessary. We have already talked about simpler and effective methods working with such surfaces. Reinforcement with metal mesh is used not to prevent cracks, but to increase load-bearing capacity cement-sand mortars. It is needed when screeding the floor. One more nuance. The indicators of linear thermal expansion of metal and solution differ significantly. This means that microcracks will certainly appear in the places where cement and metal mesh meet, because outside temperatures fluctuate within significant limits. IN indoors there are no such fluctuations.

Should I use reinforcing mesh on the basement surfaces of façade walls? Use this technology only for foam-insulated bases. In all other cases it is not needed.

Photo - a cake made of insulation and mesh for reinforcement

How much does the cost of finishing facade walls increase due to the use of reinforcing mesh? The cost of finishing increases by no more than 3–5%. But if we take into account possible repairs Due to mechanical damage to the foam, a slight increase in cost is quite justified.

Video - How to glue reinforcing mesh

Today we’ll talk about why and when plaster reinforcement is needed. In recent decades, we have adopted a conditional renovation of premises, the so-called “European-quality renovation”. It allows you to more thoroughly finish surfaces, using both European standards and modern materials, and limiting yourself only to materials, without particularly paying attention to repair standards.

European standards recommend, but do not require, the use of reinforcing mesh in difficult cases. These reasons have been misinterpreted and have become legends. It is believed that it is necessary to reinforce plaster to improve its adhesion to the wall and prevent the formation of cracks. This is not entirely true. To improve the adhesion of the plaster, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the wall and use appropriate primers. The reinforcing mesh reduces the visibility of cracks, rather than preventing their formation. Let's look at this question in more detail.

Reinforcing mesh can be metal or plastic. Fiberglass mesh is also popular as an analogue of plastic. Metal is used when plastering with strong unevenness and protrusions, sometimes exceeding 4-5 cm. When leveling, a thickened layer of plaster is created, which, after complete drying, can swell and come off. This is especially true when plastering with clay without using filler. To prevent this from happening, you need coarse-mesh reinforcement (more than 4 mm) metal mesh. This is actually a plaster mesh. Why not plastic? Because plastic is less durable, corroded by aggressive cement-sand plaster and is usually used under gypsum plaster of small thickness. That is, this is a painting mesh with a cell of 2-3 mm, which is reasonable to use on finishing walls with putty or plastering with gypsum mixtures regarding smooth walls, with a plaster application thickness of less than 20 mm.

In accordance with both our SNiP and European building standards, the thickness of the plaster layer made with a gypsum mixture is on average 15 mm. This plaster is actually applied in one layer. When reinforcing, the mesh is recessed into a freshly applied layer of plaster to a depth of at least 2/3 of the entire layer without the formation of folds, with an overlap of at least 100 mm (in places where one structural element adjoins another - at least 200 mm).

In most cases, reinforcement of plaster on the surface of walls is not carried out continuously, but only in places where various finishing surfaces and structural elements meet. But when applying a layer of plaster to the surface or when working in a newly erected building that has not yet shrinked, it is recommended to carry out reinforcement over the entire area.

Studies conducted by European manufacturers have found that if used gypsum plaster in new buildings subject to structural deformations, it is possible to reduce the risk of cracks on the surface of putty plaster, provided that the plaster is applied in the form of a layer 20 mm thick and reinforced with plaster mesh. My practical experience confirms these studies. So, when finishing an apartment of 100 square meters. meters on the seventh floor of a nine-story brick new building, immediately after the building was commissioned, continuous reinforcement of the walls and ceilings with plastic painting mesh was carried out. When working with gypsum plaster, some walls and ceilings were even reinforced in two layers. Plastering and gypsum mixtures were carried out on the cement-sand plaster left behind by the builders. The walls were being prepared for painting. Within three years after the completion of the renovation, cracks, barely visible to the eye, appeared in the putty layer on the ceilings of all large rooms and on some walls. Such cracks can be easily repaired during the next cosmetic repair, for example, when repainting walls or wallpapering. It is not difficult to guess that saving on reinforcing mesh during finishing work in a damp, freshly built building would lead to the formation of cracks throughout the entire thickness of the plaster layer and would force at least the redoing of the putty layer throughout the entire room.

Plaster mesh. Why is plaster reinforcement needed?

Leveling walls with plaster mixtures requires preliminary preparation related to surface treatment and installation of beacons. Often, plaster mesh is used for finishing - metal, plastic or fiberglass. In what cases is plaster reinforcement necessary, and what mesh is suitable for this?

According to European standards, plaster mesh is recommended for use as a reinforcing material. There is an opinion that it is necessary to reinforce the plaster for better adhesion of the mortar to the wall surface, or that the use of meshes 100% guarantees the absence of cracks. In fact, the solution sticks well to the surface if the surface is cleaned and primed. And the use of plaster mesh allows you to reduce the number and size of cracks, making them invisible.

Among the building materials available on the Ukrainian market, plastic, fiberglass and metal plaster mesh are available. The mesh creates the frame of the starting layer applied to the wall or finishing plaster. It must meet certain requirements. It should be 150-170 g/mkv.

Ordinary plastic (painting) mesh is only suitable for gypsum plasters that do not contain cement. The fact is that it is susceptible to corrosion alkaline environments. Therefore, it is used for finishing plaster. In other cases, for a small layer of plaster (up to 20 mm), fiberglass meshes and meshes impregnated with special compounds can be used.

Metal mesh for reinforcing plaster is used in cases where the surface of the wall is so uneven that the differences are 4 centimeters or more. When dry, the thickened layer of plaster behaves unpredictably and can swell and come off. In this case, even preliminary priming of the walls does not help. If included plaster mixture cement is included, it is worth using steel mesh, because compared to other materials, metal is the most resistant to corrosion by alkaline environments.

Metal reinforcement is also recommended when plastering with clay. For clay, it is better to use a mesh with a large cell - 50x50 mm. When externally plastering the walls of the first floor, metal mesh is also used, because this part of the wall is often subject to mechanical stress.

How to attach a plaster mesh to a wall? To do this, you need dowel-nails with an outer diameter of 6 mm and a self-tapping screw of 4.5 mm. We drill holes for fasteners and cut a piece of mesh to fit the height of the wall. Next, we fix the mesh from bottom to top with dowel nails, simultaneously straightening and tensioning it. You can use washers for fixation, but this is expensive. It is much more profitable to use galvanized perforated tape, which is easy to cut. When attaching the mesh to the wall, you need to ensure that it does not lag behind the wall by more than 1 cm and does not sag. At the joining points you need to overlap.

The company "Metiz-service" produces and sells steel plaster mesh of all types: expanded metal (CPVS), welded, as well as chain-link mesh with small and large mesh. Knitting wire and galvanized punched paper tape are also available for sale.

Reinforcement of plaster (external and internal finishing)

When reinforcing coatings, the mesh is attached to any in a convenient way directly to the surface wall covering. The base can be a wall made of concrete blocks, brickwork, wooden surface. The cell size and mesh rigidity depend on the thickness of the plaster layer and the reinforced surface.

The plaster mesh is stretched to level the walls with plaster if there is no confidence in the strong adhesion of the plaster to the base or the layers exceed 20 mm.

Before stretching, holes are drilled under the ceiling every 20-30 cm. Wooden plugs are driven into them (furniture dowels of suitable diameter are very good for this). Nails are driven into these plugs. Then a piece of mesh is cut to fit the height of the room. It is hung on nails with a curve towards the inside of the room, this will make it easier to level it. The nails are bent, and then holes are drilled through the holes in the mesh at intervals of 20-30 cm in height and length. They hammer the plugs into them and use nails to press it against the wall. Be sure to secure all edges. If the mesh in some places moves away from the wall, then additional fastening is made in them. When drilling holes, it is necessary to take into account that there may be pipes and wires in the walls. Usually they are 10-20 cm from the ceiling or corner. If there are pipe outlets on the wall, then horizontally and vertical axes It is better not to make holes in relation to them.

The amount of mesh is easily adjusted based on the area of ​​the surface to be plastered and the width of the mesh. Corks and nails are needed approximately 25 pieces per 1 square meter.

Is plaster reinforcement required? - apartment renovation library.

Considering that in Russia it is customary in most cases to carry out European-quality repair work and this type of repair assumes, first of all, its compliance with European standards, in the future we will also point out building regulations, adopted, in particular, in Germany in relation to work on the reinforcement of plaster.

Reinforcement of the internal plaster layer is usually done using plaster mesh. Its purpose is to reduce the impact of the underlying base on the finishing layers and minimize the risk of cracks associated with the mobility of such layers.

Plaster mesh not applicable to increase the adhesion strength of the plaster layer to the base. To do this you should use special solutions type "Betokontakt" (see also materials on Finishing work).

The use of such a grid is not directly provided for by current Russian regulations. building regulations. In turn, European standards, although they do not necessarily require reinforcement of the plaster layer, indicate that the use of plaster mesh is possible in cases where there is a need to reduce the risk of cracks in plaster layer. At the same time, reinforcement of the plaster layer, within the meaning of European building standards, cannot serve as a means to prevent the formation of cracks caused by the influence of structural processes (for example, deflection of floors, shrinkage, creep load-bearing structures or their deformation caused by temperature changes) (see DIN V 18550 clause 4.3 paragraph 2 and clause 6.3).

Reinforcement of surface finishing layers, among other things, reduces visibility cracks that, due to various types of processes, appear in the underlying layers.

According to the thickness of the plaster layer made with gypsum mixture, the average is 15 mm (which corresponds to European construction regulations). This plaster is applied to one layer. In the case of reinforcing the plaster layer, the mesh is installed(recessed) into a freshly applied and leveled plaster solution to a height of at least 2/3 of the entire plaster layer (for example, to a height of at least 10 mm with a total thickness of the plaster layer of 15 mm) without the formation of folds and is covered even before the formation of a crust on the surface of the main layer a subsequent layer of plaster, having a height of no more than 1/3 of the total thickness of the layer (technology of applying “wet layer on wet base” or “wet on wet”) - thus, virtually all plastering work is carried out in one layer.

The plaster mesh is laid with overlap not less than 100 mm (at the junction of one structural element to another - not less than 200 mm).

In most cases, reinforcement of plaster on the surface of walls is not carried out continuously, but only in places where various finishing surfaces and structural elements meet. When applying a plaster layer to the ceiling surface, it is recommended to apply reinforcement over the entire area of ​​such a layer.

When covering the wall surface with tiles, the plaster layer is not reinforced. At the same time, the thickness of the plaster layer in accordance with European standards is 10 mm versus 15 mm, provided for subsequent gluing of the surface or covering with paint layers.

Production plastering works should be done provided that massive the moisture content of the underlying base is no more than 8% (Russian SNiP) or the residual moisture is no more than 3% (V DIN, Germany).

Our Austrian colleagues at one time conducted detailed research and found that in the case of using gypsum plaster in new buildings subject to structural deformations (for example, in the form of shrinkage), it is possible to reduce the risk of cracks on the surface of the plaster, provided that the plaster is applied in a thick layer 20 mm and its reinforcement with plaster mesh.

Currently, there are stacks of actual plastering and painting. The first has a cell measuring 5 x 5 mm and is used to reinforce the plaster layer. The second has a smaller cell - 2 x 2 mm and is used when applying putty. In addition, on Russian market The so-called “cobweb” - fiberglass, which is also used to reduce visibility cracks that may form in the underlying layers.

You may find it useful:

• Stages of renovation in an apartment.
• Types of apartment renovation.

Reinforcement of plaster with metal mesh

When plastering walls and ceilings, you have to deal with strong irregularities and protrusions. When leveling, a thickened layer of plaster appears in places, which can swell and come off over time. To prevent this from happening, you need to use reinforcement. It is recommended to take such measures when the thickness of the plaster is more than two centimeters and on hard surfaces. What materials can be used for this? Expanded, welded and woven metal meshes with a fine mesh are usually used. There are also plastic plaster mesh, which are cheaper, but less durable because... are corroded more quickly by aggressive plaster. During installation, such a mesh sags and becomes askew, so experience is required. Metal mesh has a more rigid and, at the same time, elastic structure and is easy to install.

Galvanized expanded metal mesh is ideal for the plaster frame and to prevent the appearance of microcracks when the foundation settles. Judge for yourself: it is elastic and fits well to the wall, repeating its geometry, durable and has no welds, protected from corrosion, and lightweight. The production of expanded metal mesh is waste-free, so it has a low price. It is made by cutting and simultaneously stretching a galvanized sheet of iron into diamond-shaped cells arranged in a checkerboard pattern. This mesh is durable, easy to install and inexpensive.

To attach the mesh to the surface you will need dowel nails, a hammer drill, tie wire, beacons and metal scissors. The surface must be cleaned of dirt and grease and primed. It is important that the mortar sticks to the wall, otherwise the plaster along with the mesh will fall behind and sag. We cut a piece of mesh to the height of the wall and fasten it with dowel nails from bottom to top. In multilayer heavy systems, the entire load falls on the dowels and mesh, and this must be taken into account when choosing them. It is convenient to fasten the mesh with wide washers or two-centimeter sections of the remaining beacon. You can buy special galvanized mounting tape or punched paper tape and cut it into pieces of suitable length. Some people simply do not drive the nails in completely and bend them, fixing the mesh. There is another way to fix the plaster mesh with knitting wire: we hammer in the dowels not completely, tie the caps with wire in the shape of the letter Z and then finish them off. With any method, fastening is done with a certain step. There are 20-16 dowel nails per 1 square meter. We stretch the mesh well and press it as tightly as possible against the wall; bulges of more than 1 cm are unacceptable. At the joining points we overlap the mesh. The corners of door and window openings must be additionally secured with pieces of mesh measuring 300x500mm. Then we set up the beacons.

After this we plaster the wall. Apply the first layer with a more liquid solution, using sharp movements. This is necessary so that the solution sticks well to the wall through the small mesh cells. After this we leave it to dry. Apply the second layer with a thicker solution and stretch it from bottom to top.

It is up to you to decide whether to use a reinforcing frame for plaster or not. A layer of plaster up to two centimeters does not need to be reinforced. But some claim that even with a layer of five centimeters, no cracks or detachments appeared. However, you should not experiment. Often such experiments backfire. The plaster shrinks and the foundation settles. and the walls are cracking. And reinforcement gives the surface elasticity and mechanical strength. If all technological standards are observed, a reinforced plastered wall is quite strongly protected.

Plaster on mesh – effective method rough wall finishing. A particular advantage of this method is that it can be used to apply thick layer solution, which during the finishing process will not slide and peel off under own weight. What is the procedure itself, what types of mesh should be used in certain cases, and how to attach them? More on this later.

When plastering walls without using a reinforcing layer, there is a high risk that the applied solution will simply fall off the base. And when finishing brick and wooden surfaces, the plaster may begin to peel off and crumble even after repairs have been completed. This usually occurs due to insufficient adhesion of the materials indicated above. The mesh allows you to form monolithic slab, which is not afraid of any loads. Different meshes are designed for a specific load, and the type of material used depends on the thickness of the plaster layer.

On a note! With the help of reinforcement, a durable coating is created that will not crack during long-term use. Even if the solution preparation technology is violated, the mesh will ensure the integrity of the plaster layer.

Types of grids

There are several types of products used for reinforcement, the main ones being the following materials:

• fiberglass;
• metal.

When applying a thin layer of solution to flat surface Fiberglass sheeting is usually used. For finishing curved walls, when the thickness of the plaster is more than 2 centimeters, only a metal product is suitable.

In turn, metal mesh also comes in several types:

• woven – durable and flexible material, which is made from small cross-section wire. This product is used for both external and interior work. When choosing woven fabric for reinforcement, it should be taken into account that optimal size the cells in this case are 1x1 cm;
• wicker - also known as chain-link mesh. Best suited for finishing surfaces with large area. The most common cell size is 2x2 cm;
• welded - made from wire using spot welding. The rods located perpendicular to each other form square cells, the optimal size of which for reinforcement is 2-3 cm. Welded products are most often used for finishing buildings subject to severe shrinkage;
• expanded metal– made from sheet metal by forming diamond-shaped cells on a special machine. Such material is usually installed in cases where a small solution consumption is expected per 1 m2.

How to attach metal mesh?

To work with a metal mesh you will need self-tapping screws, construction dowels and metal mounting tape.

1. Before installing the canvas, it is necessary to cut off the required piece, having previously measured the area on which the plaster will be applied in the future. For cutting thin material Metal scissors will be enough. If the product is made of wire with a diameter of 2 mm or more, you will need a grinder. The cut fabric must be degreased by wiping it with a rag moistened with a solvent.
2. Attaching the mesh under the plaster should begin from the ceiling. The top of the material is secured along the entire length with self-tapping screws, under the heads of which cut fragments are placed mounting tape. Wide washers can also be used as spacers, but they are much more expensive than tape.
3. When installing on a concrete or brick surface, you need to drill holes in the wall and insert plastic dowels into them.
4. The distance between the screws depends on the size of the cells and the thickness of the mesh itself. But in any case, it is desirable that the fastening step be no more than 40-50 cm. In places of fixation, the canvas may come into contact with the wall, and in the spaces between fasteners it should not contact the surface, since in this case the quality of the plaster layer will deteriorate.
5. At the joints, the material is installed with an overlap of 8-10 cm.
6. A properly secured fabric should be well tensioned. If the material does not vibrate in places where there are no fasteners, then everything is in order. Otherwise, voids may form under the mesh, which will negatively affect the quality of the finish.

Installation of fiberglass sheeting

In this case, the plaster mesh is attached to the wall by fixing the material only along the perimeter of the canvas. First, using self-tapping screws, secure the upper edge of the mesh in several places, and then all other sides. Additional fasteners are usually not used, since later, when applying the solution, the mesh is securely fixed in the thickness of the plaster.

Since the mesh is initially rolled into rolls, for ease of installation it is better to unwind and fasten the material along the walls, parallel to the floor. You need to start fastening from the top, from any corner of the room. The joints are overlapped with an overlap of 15-20 cm.

You should know! It is best to cut the material so that you can stretch the whole fabric. This will ensure higher strength of the plaster layer.

Preparing the wall for plaster and installing beacons

Even when using a mesh, the surface requires preliminary preparation:

• First of all, the wall is freed from old decoration(if any) – paints, plasters, etc.
• Next, dust is removed from the surface. If there is fungus and mold on the wall, the affected areas should be cleaned with a wire brush.
• After this, the surface is treated with a primer, which improves the quality of adhesion, strengthens the base and prevents the formation of mold and corrosion.

After preparing the base and installing the reinforcing sheet, it is necessary to help form a smooth surface during the plastering process. A special profile is used as beacons.

Installation is as follows:

1. Using a building level, set the outer profile strictly vertical position and secure it with two self-tapping screws.
2. Next, the lighthouse is fixed using gypsum mortar.
3. The next step is to install a beacon on the other edge of the wall. To mount all profiles in the same plane, a thread is pulled between the outer guides.
4. Then the remaining beacons are installed, the distance between which should be less length rules.

Plastering the surface

After installing the beacons, you can proceed to the plastering process. Plastering walls on a grid is carried out in several stages, at each of which one layer of mortar is applied.

First stage. Plastering is usually carried out in 2 or 3 layers, depending on the material of the walls. The initial layer is applied by “spraying”. To do this, prepare a solution whose consistency should resemble sour cream. The finished mixture is poured over with a trowel or ladle in any order. The solution can be spread, but the first option is easier and faster. The applied mixture level with a spatula. The thickness of the “spray” layer should be about 10 mm.

Second phase. After the first layer has completely dried, a thicker mixture of dough-like consistency is kneaded. The solution applied using a trowel is leveled with a rule, which is pressed against the beacons and pulled from the bottom up. This layer should completely cover the reinforcing mesh. After the solution has set, the profiles are pulled out and the remaining furrows are sealed.

Third stage. The final procedure is the final leveling of the frozen surface. To do this, prepare a liquid solution and, applying it to the wall, rub it in a circular motion using a grater.

The above plastering technology is suitable for finishing any surface, regardless of what kind of reinforcing mesh is used.

Is plaster reinforcement required?

Considering that in Russia it is customary in most cases to carry out repair work on conditions and this type of repair assumes, first of all, its compliance with European standards, in the future we will also point out the building rules adopted, in particular, in Germany in relation to work on reinforcement of plaster.

Reinforcement of the internal plaster layer is usually done using plaster mesh. Its purpose is to reduce the impact of the underlying base on the finishing layers and minimize the risk of cracks associated with the movement of such layers.

The use of such a grid is not expressly provided for by the current Russian building regulations. In turn, European standards, although they do not necessarily require reinforcement of the plaster layer, indicate that the use of plaster mesh is possible in cases where there is a need to reduce the risk of cracks in the plaster layer. However, reinforcement of the plaster layer, within the meaning of European building standards, cannot serve as a means to prevent the formation of cracks caused by structural processes (for example, deflection of floors, shrinkage, creep of load-bearing structures or their deformation caused by temperature changes) (see DIN V 18550 p. 4.3 paragraph 2 and paragraph 6.3).

Reinforcement of surface finishing layers, among other things, reduces visibility cracks that, due to various types of processes, appear in the underlying layers.

In accordance with SNiP, the thickness of the plaster layer made with gypsum mixture is on average 15 mm (which corresponds to European construction regulations). This plaster is applied to one layer. In the case of reinforcing the plaster layer, the mesh is installed(recessed) into a freshly applied and leveled plaster solution to a height of at least 2/3 of the entire plaster layer (for example, to a height of at least 10 mm with a total thickness of the plaster layer of 15 mm) without the formation of folds and is covered even before the formation of a crust on the surface of the main layer a subsequent layer of plaster, having a height of no more than 1/3 of the total thickness of the layer (technology of applying “wet layer on wet base” or “wet on wet”) - thus, virtually all plastering work is carried out in one layer.

The plaster mesh is laid with overlap not less than 100 mm (in places where one structural element adjoins another - not less than 200 mm).

In most cases, reinforcement of plaster on the surface of walls is not carried out continuously, but only in places where various finishing surfaces and structural elements meet. When applying a plaster layer to the ceiling surface, it is recommended to apply reinforcement over the entire area of ​​such a layer.

When covering the surface of walls ceramic tiles reinforcement of the plaster layer is not performed. At the same time, the thickness of the plaster layer in accordance with European standards is 10 mm versus 15 mm, provided for subsequent wallpapering of the surface or covering with layers of paint.

Plastering work should be carried out under the condition that massive the moisture content of the underlying base is no more than 8% (Russian SNiP) or the residual moisture is no more than 3% (V DIN, Germany).

Our Austrian colleagues at one time conducted detailed research and found that in the case of using gypsum plaster in new buildings subject to structural deformations (for example, in the form of shrinkage), it is possible to reduce the risk of cracks on the surface of the plaster, provided that the plaster is applied in a thick layer 20 mm and its reinforcement with plaster mesh.

Currently, there are stacks of actual plastering and painting. The first has a cell measuring 5 x 5 mm and is used to reinforce the plaster layer. The second has a smaller cell - 2 x 2 mm and is used when applying putty. In addition, the so-called “cobweb” - fiberglass, which is also used to reduce visibility cracks that may form in the underlying layers.

When, as a rule, a “web” is used. In this case, reinforcing putty layers with painting mesh is not used in most cases. However, such work can be performed additionally at the request of the customer or if there is such a task in the project.

If you have any questions, write! We will try to answer them.

Knowing how plastering is done on a grid allows you to act skillfully when there is a risk of the mortar slipping. To prevent this from happening, the wall is reinforced with reinforced material. Is mesh needed when plastering? It is simply necessary as a reinforcing layer.

The solution on the walls is retained in the cells of the canvas and does not flow down. After the applied mixture hardens on the surface of the walls, a durable, durable coating is formed. A layer of plaster 10 mm thick can be dispensed with without reinforcement. For thicker coatings, installation of reinforcement is required.

Modern mesh plastering technologies use several types of reinforcing materials:

• fiberglass;
• polymer;
• metal.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass mesh for plaster is a thin, fine-mesh fabric.

Wall plaster using a grid of this type is applied to indoor walls. Fiberglass sheets are attached to surfaces that do not require special leveling.

Typically, such a mesh is covered with a thin layer.

Polymer

Recently, plastic has become very popular. Polymer fabrics in their own way bearing capacity in some cases they are equivalent to metal reinforcement, and the cost is an order of magnitude lower.

You can always find polymer mesh on sale with different cell sizes and thicknesses. With its help, you can level walls with surface deflections of up to 20 mm per 1 linear meter.

Metal

Metal mesh for plaster is used mainly for finishing facades. Metal reinforcement is used to strengthen the surfaces of fences with complex geometry, deflections of more than 20 mm per 1 linear meter.

When working on metal, cement-based mixtures are mainly used.

Metal coatings are produced in several modifications:

1. The woven structure of the coating is made from thin wire. Woven fabric covers the walls both inside and outside of buildings. Regular size cells - 10x10 mm.
2. Wicker reinforcement is also called chain-link mesh. It is very convenient to use when reinforcing large areas. Standard size cells - 20x20 mm.
3. Welded sheets are made by spot welding metal rods. Welded reinforcement is used for significant shrinkage of buildings and structures. The cells of such reinforcement are made in sizes from 20x20 mm to 30x30 mm.
4. Expanded metal reinforcement is made by stretching metal sheet, previously cut through with transverse cuts. When the sheet is stretched on a special machine, the sheet forms diamond-shaped cells. Reinforcement of this type not only withstands a thick layer of plaster, but also significantly increases the load-bearing capacity of enclosing structures.

Plastering over metal mesh forms the most reliable and durable layer of wall finishing than using reinforcement made from other materials.

Installation of grids

Each type of reinforcement, taking into account the characteristics of the material. For more information about the types of construction meshes, watch this video:

Lightweight plaster mesh does not require special fixation.

Fiberglass mesh for plaster is secured around the perimeter with a mortar rubbed in with a spatula.

The strips are connected to each other with an overlap of 150-200 mm, for which, before starting work, the mesh is cut into strips taking into account this overlap.

In case of a particularly complex configuration of the wall surface, the canvas is additionally secured with dowels. If the stripes are placed on wooden surfaces, then it is convenient to do the fastening with a stapler.

Coating with polymer sheets

Plastic sheets are attached in some cases in the same way as. In other fastening options, they resort to the use of dowels and self-tapping screws. The material is attached with an overlap, placing one strip over the other by 150-200 mm.

Metal coatings

Metal plaster mesh can withstand fairly thick layers of finishing. Due to the fact that such reinforcement has a significant specific gravity, the fastening metal reinforcement must be especially reliable. Installation metal coating walls are performed as follows:

1. Previously reinforced coating cut into fragments of the required size, not forgetting about overlaps when connecting the mesh overlapping.
2. If the canvases have been stored in a warehouse for a long time, they are treated with a solvent or rust reducer.
3. Thin coatings are cut with metal scissors. Welded and expanded metal sheets are cut with a grinder equipped with a metal cutting wheel.
4. The mesh is fastened with dowels. To do this, holes are drilled in the wall (if the wall is concrete, then this is done with a hammer drill). Plastic dowels are inserted into the holes.
5. Reinforcement begins from one of the upper corners of the wall. Having attached the mesh to the wall, screw the screws and washers into the dowels. The washers act as fasteners.
6. A distinctive feature is that during such work the canvases are fixed in such a way that there is a small gap of 3-5 mm between the reinforcement and the wall. This is necessary to place reinforcement in the body of the plaster layer, which gives the wall decoration greater solidity and high load-bearing capacity. For a detailed description of the process, watch this video:

The reinforcement must be secured in tension and not bend. Otherwise, voids may form in the body of the finish, which will negatively affect the load-bearing capacity of the plaster.

Installation of beacons

When the reinforced sheets are fixed to the fence, guide strips (beacons) are installed to move the rules along them. The rules are made from a piece of metal profile 1 to 1.5 m long.

The guide strips are fixed with gypsum mortar. The ruler controls the level of the beacons.

Plastering walls

Fences with mesh are plastered in 2-3 layers.

The work is carried out in the following order:

1. The first layer is applied using the cape method. The mortar collected on a trowel is thrown onto the fence with a sharp movement of the hand. To do this, use a mixture with a consistency reminiscent of liquid sour cream. This method of applying the solution allows you to obtain a dense, durable layer of plaster.
2. After the first layer has “set”, apply next layer plaster. The second layer is made from a denser mixture - a dough-like consistency.
3. Plastering is done from bottom to top. The thrown solution from below is picked up with a rule and brought up. As the rule moves, it is slightly alternately shifted from side to side. This helps to distribute the mixture evenly over the wall surface.
4. After the plaster has dried, the beacons are removed. The remaining clearings are sealed with mortar.
5. At the end of the work, the surface of the walls must be grouted. For this they take liquid mixture. Using circular movements of a wooden grout or trowel, the liquid solution is rubbed onto the plastered wall, thereby finally forming the finished surface of the wall.