Venetian plaster (also called polished plaster or marble plaster) is a high-end decorative finish made from lime putty and marble dust that creates a luxurious, stone-like appearance. Unlike regular gypsum plaster that gets painted over, Venetian plaster is troweled on in thin layers and burnished to create a smooth, often glossy finish with depth and movement. This Italian plaster technique produces a bespoke wall finish that's both beautiful and durable, perfect for creating luxury interiors in Dartford homes and commercial spaces.

Yes! When properly sealed, Venetian plaster works beautifully in bathrooms. For areas with direct water exposure (like shower walls), we recommend Tadelakt - a waterproof Moroccan plaster that we specialize in. Both Venetian and Tadelakt plasters are naturally mold-resistant due to their lime base, making them ideal for Dartford bathrooms where humidity can be an issue. We'll advise on the best finish for each area of your home.

Venetian plaster is a premium wall finish, so it typically costs more than standard plastering. Prices vary based on the complexity of the design, but you can expect to invest about 2-3 times more than conventional plastering. However, it's important to remember that Venetian plaster is both the finish and the decorative surface - eliminating the need for paint or wallpaper. Many Dartford homeowners find it's worth the investment for its stunning visual impact and durability that lasts decades.

Absolutely. One advantage of Venetian polished plaster is that small damages can be spot-repaired by reworking that area, unlike paint or wallpaper that might require redoing entire sections. Our artisans in Dartford can seamlessly blend repairs so they're virtually undetectable. Significant damage is rare though - when applied correctly over a stable substrate, Venetian plaster is remarkably durable and resistant to chips or cracks.

Silicone render is the modern gold standard for exterior finishes in Dartford. Key benefits include: 1) Flexibility that resists cracking as your home expands/contracts with temperature changes, 2) Breathability that prevents damp by letting moisture escape, 3) Self-cleaning properties that resist algae and dirt buildup, and 4) Long-lasting color that won't peel or fade like painted renders. While the initial cost is higher, silicone render saves money long-term by needing less maintenance.

External wall insulation (EWI) will actually enhance your home's appearance. The insulation is finished with a fresh render in your choice of color and texture - allowing you to completely update your facade. We take care to maintain your home's character while improving its thermal performance. Many clients are thrilled with the transformation, as their property looks newer and more modern while becoming significantly more energy efficient.

Venetian plaster requires more time than conventional plastering due to its multiple thin layers (typically 2-3 coats) that each need drying time before burnishing. A feature wall might take 2-3 days including drying time between coats, while a full room could take 4-5 days. Standard plaster skimming is faster (1-2 days per room), but lacks the luxurious finish of Venetian plaster. We'll provide a clear timeline for your Dartford project during consultation.