Wednesday 8 September 2010

KNAUF DRYWALL’S NEW PLASTERS MIXED READY FOR THE MACHINE

Fast track plastering takes another big step forward with the introduction of Knauf Readymix Plasters, specially formulated for machine application. The new plasters from Knauf Drywall come ready to spray on walls and ceilings – and they dry fast so they can be painted just 24-48 hours later. These high quality, no waste, no mess plasters provide ideal solutions for a wide range of surface types, including previously decorated surfaces. Available through builders merchants, Knauf Readymix Plasters complement Knauf Drywall’s existing range of time saving machine-applied plasters, which are accelerating the swing away from traditional hand plastering. 

Knauf Readymix Plasters are supplied in 25kg bags, perfectly mixed for immediate use. Simply empty a bag into the machine’s hopper, switch on and spray. The system is so efficient that a three man team can complete 1,000m2 a week. And there’s less than 1% waste – any plaster that is trowelled off can be returned to the process. Even the bags can be recycled.

There are four products in the Knauf Readymix Plasters range. Knauf Plano is a filler and levelling compound for use on thin joint block systems, uneven concrete and in refurbishment projects to prepare damaged surfaces for redecoration. Knauf Deco is used as a 1-2mm top coat for a flat, smooth finish over Knauf Plano, or as a two coat finish on smooth backgrounds such as plasterboard, precast panels, Aircrete panels and composite boards. Knauf Airless is used in the same way as Knauf Deco, but is formulated for use in an airless high pressure pump. Knauf Deco Plus provides a range of self finished textured effects by leathering, combing or rolling.

Knauf Drywall Marketing Manager Bob Stark says Knauf Readymix Plasters have many applications beyond their main role in fast track, large projects – typically apartment developments, hotels, schools, student accommodation and hospitals. “The Readymix system is both versatile and portable, so these plasters are ideal for small to medium building projects too,” he says. “These products will add impetus to this exciting new trend in plastering – and further raise standards of interior finishes. We are already seeing enormous growth in sales of machine-applied plasters as specifiers and contractors increasingly recognise the speed and quality benefits that traditional plastering cannot match.”  

The Readymix Plasters from Knauf Drywall are water-based, so they do not damage health or the environment. And they are non-reactive with all substrates, including lime plasters and sand-cement renders. They are flexible products, so are less likely to crack than conventional skim coats.

Knauf Drywall’s portfolio of plaster products for site-mixed machine application includes one coat MP75, which is three times faster on masonry than traditional two coat hand applied systems, and MPFinish, which provides a fast quality system for skimming plasterboard walls and ceilings.