Give it a defining touch
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The matte finish is what gives your walls a veneer and the right look
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-Photo: P.V.Sivakumar
Final strokes: A smooth finish not only appears glossy, but also adds elegance to the wall.
Walls are the most visible part of your home. Apart from separating the rooms and providing privacy, they often define the character of the place. The colour of the wall speaks out your taste and aesthetic sense. Their condition displays your penchant for perfection and cleanliness. A bit of caution while building and painting can ensure the walls are strong, crack-free, smooth and elegant.
Most of the walls in a framed structure (built on beams and columns) are not meant to add strength to the structure. Their sole purpose is to divide space and create different rooms. Strength is not a priority in such walls. More attention should be paid to the aspects of plastering and painting. Plastering serves the twin purposes of protecting the wall and providing a smooth surface for painting. So, the exterior plastering should be strong and the interior plastering should be smooth. As a thumb rule, the exterior plastering should be done with 1:3 mortar (cement:sand) and 1:6 mortar should suffice for interior plastering.
It is advisable to plan your interior surface finish well in advance. If you plan for a plain distemper finish, ensure the wall is given either a sponge-finish or a smooth finish as desired. If you wish to apply wall-putty, the plastering should be finished rough. Surfaces can be finished differently for each room. A smooth finish is always advised for the bed-room and bathroom walls are generally finished rough. A smooth finish not only appears glossy, but also adds elegance to the wall. It is easier to maintain too, as dust particles do not hang on to a smooth surface.
Beware of moisture
Insufficient curing (watering) may lead to shrinkage and cracks on the surface. Hence, insist on the builder to adequately water the plastered surfaces. The walls should be fully dry before applying distemper or wall-putty. Any excess amount of moisture at this stage will lead to discolouration at a later stage. Generally, the plastered walls are to be left for at least three months to dry before painting. Undulations on the surface of the walls cause imperfect reflection of light leading to a clumsy effect. Irregularities in the surface can be detected by closely observing the walls in ample light or by softly rubbing your hand along the length and height of the wall. Edges are the most conspicuous parts of a wall. Imperfect edges are an eyesore on the otherwise beautiful wall. Pay attention to the edges and do not hesitate to get the imperfect edges redone. Wall joints with wooden fittings like doors and windows should be carefully covered with putty. Any openings in these spots will act as gateways for ants and termites.
If you have an idea of wall-hangings and decorative pieces you intend to place on the wall, have sufficient number of hooks or hangers fitted before painting itself.
This will avoid ugly marks on the finished walls. Have as many electrical plug points as you may need, so that the wiring can be concealed during construction itself.
CHANDRASEKHAR YADAVILLI
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