However good the paint, the result will not look right if the plaster beneath is not flat. However good the parquet, it will creak and open up if the screed is not level. Plaster and screed are the invisible foundation of finishing works — and once their faults surface, they are expensive to correct.
Base plaster, gypsum plaster and satin gypsum
| Layer | Material | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Base plaster | Cement, sand, lime | Levels the wall; thick coat, used outdoors and in wet areas |
| Gypsum plaster | Gypsum-based | Indoor alternative to base plaster; faster and smoother |
| Satin gypsum | Fine gypsum | Top coat, produces a smooth surface for paint |
Cement-based plaster is used on facades and in bathrooms and other damp-exposed surfaces; gypsum plaster is preferred in dry interiors. Satin gypsum can be applied as the top coat over either system.
What to watch for when plastering
- Surface preparation: dust must be removed and a spatter coat applied where needed; adhesion depends on it.
- Coat thickness: several thin coats rather than one thick one; this reduces cracking.
- Straightedge and level: wall flatness should be checked with a straightedge; corners should be square.
- Curing: cement-based plaster must not dry too fast; in hot weather it needs damping.
- Corner beads: fitting beads to external corners improves impact resistance.
- After the services: plaster comes after electrical and water lines are installed.
What is floor screed and why is levelling essential?
Screed is the cement-based layer poured over the slab to give the floor covering a flat surface. It conceals service pipes and keeps the floor level. If the screed is not level:
- Parquet creaks and joints open
- Tile grout cracks and voids form beneath tiles
- Doors catch on the floor or leave a gap underneath
- Furniture and kitchen worktops do not sit properly
That is why checking the screed with a laser or spirit level after pouring is standard practice.
How long does screed take to dry?
Drying depends on thickness, air temperature, humidity and screed type. As a general rule, thicker screed is left longer. The critical point is not time but the moisture reading: before parquet or vinyl is laid, the screed’s moisture content must be measured and confirmed to be within range. Laying too early causes the floor covering to blister.
The correct sequence
- Service lines are installed
- Base or gypsum plaster is applied
- Floor screed is poured and checked for level
- Drying and moisture measurement
- Drywall details are completed
- Satin gypsum is applied
- Primer and paint
- Floor covering
This sequence is the backbone of a renovation; for a detailed explanation see our article on the right order of works.
Demgirişim treats straightedge levelling and moisture measurement as standard practice in plaster and screed work.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if flooring is laid before the screed dries?
Moisture in the screed transfers to the floor covering; laminate blisters and solid parquet lifts and warps. Flooring should not be laid until a moisture reading confirms the screed is dry.
What is satin gypsum for?
It is the thin top coat applied over base or gypsum plaster. It makes the surface perfectly smooth so the paint looks even. It is one of the most critical steps before painting.
Why does plaster crack?
Rapid drying, poor surface preparation, applying a single thick coat and building movement are the most common causes. Correct coat thickness and curing reduce the risk.
The initial consultation and written quote for Plaster & Screed are free within Istanbul. Scope, duration and cost are confirmed after the consultation.