Is Venetian plaster more durable than paint?

Yes. Paints and other coatings contain organic compounds that deteriorate over time. Our products, however, have a high mineral content, which makes them resistant to most environmental exposures. Stucco Italiano products actually increase in strength and beauty over time.

Why does the finish look uneven?

Variations in shading are a natural characteristic of Venetian plasters and Old-World stuccos. They contribute to the unique visual appeal of our products and should not be considered as defects. Variations may become more pronounced over time as our finishes develop their full, rich patina.

Can you custom match a color?

Our plasters are offered in a white, tintable base. We use a zeroc-VOC universal tinting system so any color can be achieved.

I want to put Venetian plaster around in my shower surround. Which product should I use?

Any of our Venetian plasters that are recommended for exterior applications would be an appropriate choice.

Can I use Venetian plaster around my fireplace?

Yes. Authentic Venetian plasters are flame and heat resistant and have a flame spread of 0, and a Class A Rating for Surface Burning Characteristics.

Maintenance Information -

Cleaning Lime Based Putty Plasters

When performing any type of building maintenance, observe proper safety precautions.

Brush or vacuum surfaces to remove dust and loose dirt. When necessary, surfaces may be cleaned with mild detergents or proprietary cleaning agents together with gentle scrubbing or low-pressure water washing. Products containing slaked-lime can also be cleaned with mineral spirits or acetone; observe proper ventilation and safety procedures when using solvents.

Clean vertical surfaces from the bottom up. Thoroughly rinse exterior surfaces with clean water after cleaning. At interior surfaces, wipe off cleaning agents with a damp rag followed, if necessary, by a dry rag. Test cleaning products and techniques in an inconspicuous location before proceeding and comply with manufacturer’s instructions.

Efflorescence, a white powdery deposit which can form on building surfaces, should be removed as soon as practical using water and a soft bristle brush or nylon scouring pad.

Repairs

Surface Blemishes: In many instances, scratches, scuff marks, and stains which do not respond to ordinary cleaning techniques may be removed by lightly sanding the surface with a fine sandpaper. The success of this depends on the texture of the finish; test in an inconspicuous location before proceeding. Re-apply wax or sealer, if required, to sanded areas.

Graffiti: Consult a firm specializing in graffiti removal and protection.

Other Repairs: Most damage to surfaces can be repaired by experienced applicators. Extensive damages may require replacement of an entire section of finished surface.

# For general information about maintaining or repairing plaster, contact: Association of the Walls and Ceilings Industries, www.awci.org, (703) 538-1611
# Technical Services & Information Bureau, www.tsib.org, (714) 256-1708

Materials Information

Slaked Lime: Slaked lime is the traditional material used in classical Venetian plasters and Old-World stuccos. All of the lime based plasters that Stucco Italiano installs use mature lime putty that has been slaked for a minimum of twelve months in underground pits and processed until it is a pure, creamy, highly workable mature lime putty. Slaked lime imparts brilliance, hardness, workability, moisture resistance, durability and sheen.

Marble Dust: White marble flour gives body and substance to our plasters. Together with the lime, they contains real stone to enable us to create authentic looking stone finishes.