DIY plastering station
Finishing work always takes a lot of time, both during renovation and when building a new house. The use of technology in such cases is the dream of any person who has to do laborious and painstaking work every day. The production of such machines has long been established, but not everyone can afford to purchase them, and those who are engaged in construction or repair for themselves will not want to buy expensive serial equipment.
Tools and materials required for manufacturing
The productivity of the average layman is so small that even a machine made from improvised means can significantly accelerate the pace of work. Therefore, folk ingenuity and ingenuity make it possible to make a handicraft device from various components that are at hand.
A do-it-yourself plastering station, made for work, should, at its core, contain several functional parts. The main nodes of which it consists:
For the manufacture of such a unit, a variety of devices, parts and mechanisms are used, for which there is only enough imagination.
Advantages
The advantages of using the most primitive and low-performance unit are that the solution is used without loss, it is supplied much faster than manually, and no professional training is needed to work with a home-made structure, because a person understands how a simple mechanism works, and as much as possible uses its power. A home-made pneumatic-based bucket, or a small hopper, can significantly simplify the life of the developer and speed up the finishing work. Such a device works on manual traction or from an electrical outlet of 220 V.
The most famous homemade unit
It was invented by a man who needed to plaster the outer wall, after the entire layer of old plaster had collapsed under his hands. Of all the available methods, he was offered, upon request, only to apply the solution with a broom, and there was a lot of work, so he took an old spray gun in the garage, cut off the fire extinguisher and got a container of 4 liters, inside which he inserted a pipe with a nozzle. With the help of the assembled primitive device, he managed to spray the solution, covering almost a square meter in a minute. After such an experience, it turned out that there are many options for the device of a mini-car, and you can watch some of them on the video:
The handcrafted plastering stations are vastly different from the factory-made pretty machine, which shimmers with brightly colored plastic and chrome parts. But machines and devices for applying plaster on the wall, which are quite simple or even primitive devices, can be equipped in three types of action:
- hopper bucket, modeled after industrial but simplified;
- mortar pump, built from improvised means;
- mortar sleeve that delivers solution from the container to the wall under electrical or mechanical action.
Auger mortar pump
Such devices are not distinguished by any special manufacturability or special complexity, but they significantly accelerate the pace of work performed and increase labor productivity.
Plaster is a quick and inexpensive way to finish walls and ceilings. The advantages of this method are countless, however, it is quite difficult to apply the solution by hand, especially when it comes to finishing work on a large area. To reduce time, save material, and at the same time significantly increase productivity, a simple device called a hopper bucket (pneumatic bucket or plaster shovel) allows. Being, in fact, a textured gun, the device applies plaster to the walls by spraying, which gives a lot of advantages over the traditional trowel and trowel. The trading network offers factory models of plastering shovels of various sizes and purposes. Taking into account the simple design of the device, we propose to make it ourselves, especially since the materials for the pneumatic bucket are most often right at hand.
What is a hopper bucket and how does it work
Plastering with a hopper bucket greatly increases the speed of finishing work
Before making a hopper bucket, it will be useful to familiarize yourself with its design and principle of operation. This will make it possible not only to assemble the device according to the provided drawings, but also, if necessary, make your own adjustments depending on the availability of materials and operating features.
The principle of operation of a pneumatic bucket is similar to that of a spray gun. Starting the finishing activities, they turn on the compressor, connect the hose to the gun, collect the plaster mixture into the hopper and open the pneumatic valve. High pressure air is supplied to the working cavity through the inlet fitting located on the rear wall of the device. Carrying along the particles of the plaster solution, the air flow exits through special nozzles located in the front of the device. At the same time, the plaster is quickly and evenly sprayed onto the wall. The advantage of the bucket-shaped design is that during operation, you can scoop the liquid mixture from another container, and not pour it from the bucket.
Video: Working with a pneumatic bucket
Pneumatic bucket design
The diagram of a pneumatic hopper bucket (plaster shovel), presented in the figures, will make it possible to understand all the advantages of the design. Due to the inclination of the front wall, the plaster can be applied not only to vertical wall surfaces, but also to ceilings and inclined planes in any direction.
Plastering bucket diagram
It is not recommended to use ordinary sand-cement mixture for plastering ceilings. It is better to use lighter gypsum-based finishing compounds.
The top of the tank has a closed part on the side of the compressor connection. This allows you not to spill the solution when the bucket tilts during plastering of ceilings. When making a device, it is important to keep some design parameters within certain limits. Thus, it is not recommended to increase the diameter of the inlet more than 4–5 mm. The distance between the rear and the front wall at the bottom of the bucket should be no more than 20 - 25 mm, and the diameter of the outlet nozzle should be between 10 and 15 mm. In this case, the operability of the structure will be ensured by an ordinary household compressor, designed for a pressure of up to 8 atmospheres and an air flow rate of about 220 - 250 liters per minute. If the distance between the inlet and the nozzle is increased, then the air flow power will not be enough to push the mixture under pressure sufficient to spray the solution onto the wall.
The hopper bucket is equipped with a pneumatic valve for ease of operation
To turn on the air supply to the hopper bucket, a manually operated valve is installed, similar to those used in pneumatic guns for pumping air into car tires. For these purposes, you can use the most ordinary ball valve installed on the air supply hose, however, the first option is more convenient and allows you to instantly stop the mixture supply, and this gives additional savings in solution.
Advantages and disadvantages
As a simple and effective tool for finishing walls and ceilings, the hopper bucket has many advantages:
- high speed of finishing works;
- the possibility of using unskilled labor;
- versatility (the device allows you to work with building mixtures of any type);
- the use of fibrous admixtures and other decorative additives;
- increased adhesion of the mortar to the wall due to the high spraying speed;
- profitability;
- low cost.
Requirements for building mixtures
The plaster shovel can work with any finishing materials
The hopper bucket is a versatile assistant for the plasterer and allows you to work with any type of finishing mortar:
- textured paints with increased fluidity;
- cement-sand mortars;
- cork plaster mixes;
- the liquid wallpaper;
- concrete mixes;
- gypsum plasters.
Modified admixtures that are added to plaster mixes can improve their working properties, increase labor productivity and reduce the cost of finishing materials.
Hopper bucket design features
Even such a simple design as a plastering bucket has several modifications associated with the need to work in different planes:
The design of both pneumatic equipment differs only in the lower part. So, for a device that is used for wall decoration, the outlet nozzles (or nozzle) are located directly opposite the air duct opening and are oriented perpendicular to the mass of the mortar. As for plastering shovels intended for overhead work, they have a working mixture outlet directed at a slight angle upward. This allows you to finish the surface, practically without tilting the device "towards you". In addition, in buckets of this type, the upper opening is partially closed on the operator's side. This prevents the mixture from pouring out, while the actual absence of a lid will allow the solution to be easily scooped out of the container during operation.
Ceiling plaster shovel outlets are angled upwards
The bunker of factory textured pistols is most often made of galvanized or stainless steel sheet. The small thickness makes it possible to lighten the structure, and to make it less susceptible to alternating loads allows the use of riveted joints. In homemade buckets, the container used to be made mainly of thin sheet steel, welding the bunker parts together. With the advent of riveting devices, at home it became possible to make a hopper bucket, completely identical to the factory product.
Technology for applying finishing materials using a plaster shovel
As with manual plastering, before starting to apply the solution, beacons are exposed, and the surface of the walls or ceiling is cleaned of dust and moistened. If necessary, the surface layer is reinforced with composite primers or reinforced with a special mesh.
During the operation of the hopper, the working mixture is consumed very quickly (in 3-4 minutes more than 50 kg of plaster is sprayed from its nozzle), therefore, before starting the application of the finishing layer, the necessary supply of solution is made.
For plastering large surfaces, a conventional mixer will not be enough - it is better to stock up on a mortar mixer or a concrete mixer. The preparation of working mixtures is carried out in full accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations indicated on the package.
Plastering is started without delay, especially if the question concerns gypsum compositions. The hopper is held with the right hand for the pistol grip, and with the left hand for the bracket on the hopper. Using the bucket as a scoop, scoop the solution from the container and shake off the excess from the outer walls of the hopper. The gun is brought up to the wall and the trigger of the spray gun is pressed. Smoothly moving the device from bottom to top, from one lighthouse to another, evenly fill the gap with the building mixture. After that, a long rule (you can use a flat rail) is carried out along the beacons, removing excess plaster. The use of a stiff mixture has the advantage that it lies perfectly on a vertical wall and does not slide or drag over the rule. In addition, a small amount of liquid reduces shrinkage, which makes it possible to plaster in one layer.
Video: Plaster on lighthouses using a hopper bucket
The distance to the walls is determined based on what effect they want to get - textured plaster or a smooth surface. In the first case, by selecting a mixture, the required size of "shagreen" is obtained. In addition, experiment with inlet and nozzle diameters using multiple nozzles for different finishing effects.
After setting, the plaster is rubbed, and the bucket is washed. The remaining solution is removed manually, and the nozzles are blown out with a compressor, placing the hopper in a container with water. If the work is not finished, but simply requires a short break, then flushing is still indispensable. Only after that, the instrument is not dried, but left in water.
- best of all, the plaster lies on pre-leveled walls, regardless of what material they are made of - brick, concrete, cinder blocks or thermal insulation boards;
- for operation, a pressure of up to 4 atmospheres is enough, which can be increased to a value of 6 atmospheres to compensate for the drop in performance at the moment of switching on;
- if it is necessary to apply a thick layer of plaster, the bucket is kept at a distance of 2 - 3 cm from the wall. The optimal gap is considered to be 6 - 10 cm;
- if the solution is applied as a finishing layer, then the textured gun is kept at the maximum distance from the surface;
Sometimes it becomes necessary to plaster hard-to-reach places. In such cases, additional attachments are installed, expanding the area of use of the instrument.
Making a hopper bucket of the simplest design
The plaster gun is so basic that it can be made in a few hours. All that is required for this is to determine the size of the device, prepare the necessary materials and tools, after which it remains to assemble the bucket and test it in action.
Drawings and dimensions
Despite the apparent simplicity, when making a textured pneumatic gun, it is better to use drawings of assembled and tested designs. Of course, the configuration of the hopper can be developed independently, however, the advantage of the drawings presented below is that they take into account the errors of several previous models and the wishes of the professional plasterers. Of course, the size of the fixture can be changed at your discretion. It is only important to observe the proportions and slopes, and also not to forget about the limiting values of the parameters of the spray part of the device.
When deciding on the size of the device, do not forget that you will have to work continuously for several hours, all this time keeping the bucket with the plaster suspended. That is why it is impractical to manufacture equipment with a volume of more than 2 - 3 liters.
Materials and tools
To make a hopper bucket at home, you will need:
- sheet metal with a thickness of 0.4 to 1 mm. You can use both ordinary steel and aluminum or galvanized sheet;
- a pneumatic gun or ¼ ”steel tube;
- a nozzle, the manufacture of which can be ordered from a turner;
- one or more washers (according to the number of nozzles) with an inner diameter of 10 - 12 mm;
- scissors for metal;
- "Bulgarian" (angle grinder);
- an electric drill and a set of drills;
- metal ruler;
- marker.
Bucket can be assembled by welding or riveting - it all depends on the availability of a welding machine or riveter, as well as the material of construction.
Assembly instructions for plaster gun
- Transfer the paths from the drawing to sheet metal using tracing paper. After that, go over all the lines with a sharp scribe. This will make it possible to preserve their visibility during cutting.
- Use metal scissors or a grinder to cut out the hopper pattern. If the size of the workpiece is not enough, then the development can be divided into several parts.
If the bunker is made of tin, then it is quite possible to do with metal scissors.
- Bend the metal base of the bucket along the lines of the bottom plane.
- Weld the front and back of the container to the part obtained.
When using riveting joints at the joints of the hopper parts, it is required to make an allowance of at least 10 mm wide.
- Secure the top handle of the hopper. In the model shown in the diagram, it is on the left, therefore, the main weight falls on the right hand (for a right-handed person). If the instrument will be used by a left-handed person, the handle is moved to the other side.
- In the lower part of the hopper, holes are drilled for nozzles, which are reinforced with steel washers on both sides.
In finishing work, mechanized plaster is often used to prepare the base. This approach allows you to form an even layer of sufficient thickness and interesting texture. We offer you to understand the features and technology of work.
Mechanized plaster - a guarantee of the formation of a quality layer
PHOTO: images.musterhaus.net
Read in the article
Mechanized plastering of walls - what is it
To implement this method of wall decoration, special equipment is used, which makes it possible to almost completely abandon manual labor. This significantly increases the productivity of the work performed and improves their quality. The speed of mechanized plastering of walls is 5-6 times faster than the manual method.
To use this, one must not only be located with special equipment, but also have special skills and knowledge. When self-applying plaster in a mechanized way, it is worthwhile to take a responsible attitude to the choice of equipment and tools. Otherwise, it will be difficult to use it due to lack of skills and knowledge.
For application, special equipment is used PHOTO: profmas.ru
Features of mechanized plastering inside the building
If necessary, plastering work can be performed mechanically inside the building. The procedure for performing work differs significantly depending on the basis. The composition can be applied on vertical and horizontal substrates. It is permissible to use gypsum, lime and cement mortars. The price of mechanized plaster directly depends on the type of composition used.
For interior work, various compositions can be used.
PHOTO: styazhkaprof.ru
Mechanical plastering of walls: sequence of actions
Mechanical plastering of walls is performed in the following sequence:
- preparation of the base. Dust and dirt are removed from the wall. A layer of primer is applied. Beacons are installed that determine the thickness of the applied layer;
- the equipment is assembled, the required modes are set, the solution is prepared;
- using the selected equipment, the mixture is applied to the wall. The pistol is positioned at a right angle. The thickness of the formed layer is regulated by changing the pressure. The composition is applied from a corner or a joint;
- The coverage is leveled using a rule. Half an hour after application, the plastered surface is moistened and rubbed with a trowel.
A professional team copes with the task quickly enough PHOTO: d6z72aalekwc3.cloudfront.net
We suggest watching a video that describes in detail how mechanized wall plastering is performed:
Mechanized ceiling plastering: the subtleties of the process
Ceiling lining is performed in the following sequence:
- surface preparation. All dirt, debris, cobwebs, metal objects are removed, irregularities are smoothed out. A layer of primer is applied;
- determination of the location and installation of beacons, along which mechanized plastering of the ceiling will be carried out. Lighthouses are located at a distance of 1–1.5 m from each other. Particular attention is paid to their location, since the evenness of the layer being formed directly depends on this;
- preparation of the working mixture, if necessary when using the selected equipment;
- applying the mixture to the surface in strips of the same width. In this case, the overlap of each subsequent one should be ensured;
- leveling the surface using a rule that is pulled towards itself, making movements from side to side;
- final processing of the ceiling.
Careful adherence to technology is a guarantee of quality PHOTO: pbs.twimg.com
We offer you to watch a video that clearly shows the process of performing work:
Features of mechanized facade plastering
Outdoor work can only be carried out at above-zero temperatures. This allows not only to properly prepare the base, but also to create a comfortable working environment. Mechanized is performed using only cement mortars. The equipment used must be configured to use the mixture with the selected fractional composition. Especially if the choice is made in favor of the "bark beetle".
The train can rise to a sufficiently large height PHOTO: kamtehnopark.ru
Mechanized plastering technology
Various equipment can be used to apply plastering of walls in a mechanized way. Its design largely determines the order of use.
When using special equipment, it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
PHOTO: specstroy-snab.ru
Mechanized plastering of walls using machines and stations
With the help of machines and stations, professional mechanized plastering of walls is performed. With their help, the mixture is not only transferred to the wall, but also prepared. Due to this, these units have a rather complex design. They include:
- a special hopper designed for loading dry mix;
- the chamber in which the solution is prepared;
- a screw mechanism that supplies the mixture to the chamber, and a special pump;
- air compressor;
- mortar gun
- various cables and hoses.
The station includes special units PHOTO: rov-st.ru
When using machines and stations, the dry mixture is loaded into a special hopper. The device is connected to water, power supply system, compressor, if the latter is not part of the unit. Inside the equipment for mechanized plastering, a mixture is prepared with the required ratio of components, and then it is fed through a special mortar hose to a distance of up to 20 m. The gun allows you to adjust the feed rate.
The gun must be positioned correctly PHOTO: inverbo.ru
Thanks to such a device, the station is capable of operating continuously for several hours. Instead of a team of workers, plastering the walls can be performed by two specialists: one applies the mortar to the base, the second levels it using a rule.
We offer you to watch a video showing the mechanical plaster of the walls:
With the use of a pneumopathic hopper
Such an apparatus is a steel structure in the form of an inverted pyramid with a volume of 5 liters. With its help, it is possible to move the plaster solution to the prepared base. At the other end there is a special lever that allows you to adjust the supply of compressed air and plaster mixture.
The hopper pneumopath has a relatively simple design PHOTO: productcenter.ru
During operation, the solution is drawn from the tank. After that, the nozzle of the tool is directed to the wall and, by pressing the lever, is activated. Compressed air ensures the transport of the mixture to the base and its even distribution over the surface.
A relatively simple design allows you to apply plaster in a mechanized way with your own hands. The productivity of such a device can reach up to 60 m² / h. At the same time, mechanized plastering is relatively inexpensive.
Up to 60 m² can be processed in an hour PHOTO: dekoriko.ru
Attention! The pneumatic hopper for plastering walls differs in design from the same tool for processing the ceiling.
Using a pneumatic gun
To apply the mixture, a special tool is used that allows you to apply the ready-made mixture to the walls through a short nozzle barrel with a variety of nozzles that provide a spray of the solution. A compressed air hose is connected to the gun, which creates the required pressure. After pressing the trigger of the pneumatic gun, the solution is supplied to the base to be treated. Pressing it again stops the mixture delivery.
A pneumatic gun allows you to adjust the feed rate of the mixture PHOTO: otdelka-expert.ru
Pros and cons of mechanized plastering of walls: we take into account the peculiarities of the method
The advantages of this method include:
- high productivity. With their help, it is possible to apply up to 1 m³ / hour, which allows finishing up to 40-60 m², depending on the thickness of the layer being formed;
- high quality of the formed layer. When using an automated system, an even layer is initially obtained, unattainable by a manual method;
- high adhesion of the coating to the base due to the uniform distribution of the layer and the same feed rate of the mixture. This contributes to the filling of all irregularities on the wall surface with mortar;
- minimum consumption of plaster for mechanized application. When applied, the solution evenly lays on the wall and practically does not spray;
- the possibility of abandoning the preliminary preparation of the walls, which helps to reduce the cost of finishing work.
The thickness of the formed layer may vary PHOTO: shtukaturka78.ru
Mechanized plastering of walls has not only advantages, but also disadvantages, which include:
- high cost of equipment. Because of this, the method is practically not used in everyday life, since it will not work out cheaply to perform mechanized plastering of walls in this case;
- the need to connect to the water supply system and the availability of a sufficient amount of the mixture;
- the need to use a solution with a suitable composition.
The high cost of equipment is the main drawback PHOTO: lost-empire.ru
How much does mechanical plastering cost - an overview of prices per m²
In order not to overpay for the facing of the base, it is worth knowing in advance the cost of mechanized wall plastering for 1 m². Prices depend on the type of composition used and the application technology. When choosing a suitable option, you should familiarize yourself with all the offers. On average, the price for 1 m² of wall plaster applied by a mechanized method starts from 560-900 rubles per square, if it is planned to apply a gypsum composition. Prices depend on the thickness of the layer being formed. The price of mechanized plastering of walls with cement-sand mortar is slightly higher. Prices start at 600-900 rubles per square meter.
Layer formation costs can vary significantly PHOTO: stroysand.ru
What is a mechanized floor screed: process features
Special equipment can also be used to form the floor screed. Thanks to this, it is possible in a limited time to prepare a sufficiently large area for laying the topcoat. We offer you to get acquainted with the technological features of the work.
Always great results PHOTO: ask-ntr.ru
Types of mechanized floor screed
Floor screeds can be:
- wet. It can be performed by any builder using cement concrete mortar. After pouring it, the composition is leveled. Due to the large amount of water, the formed surface may crack during the drying process;
- dry... It is rarely used. It involves filling dry filler and laying gypsum fiber sheets;
- semi-dry... It is a mechanized floor screed, for the formation of which special equipment is used.
Semi-dry dries faster PHOTO: photo.7ya.ru
Advantages and disadvantages
The use of a mechanized method for screed formation has a number of advantages:
- the formation of a perfectly flat surface that is suitable for laying any topcoat;
- a small amount of water is introduced into the composition of the solution, which significantly accelerates the drying rate of concrete. Grouting can be carried out several hours after the screed has formed. Work is carried out in special shoes that provide uniform pressure on the floor surface;
- reducing the drying time of the concrete solution to 1–2 weeks. At the same time, water does not seep to the lower floors;
- the process of screed formation is accelerated several times;
- it is possible to avoid cracking of the solution at the time of drying;
- allows you to refuse the additional use of self-leveling compounds;
- no dust indoors, since the mixing of the components is carried out outside the building;
- a screed formed by a mechanized method can last much longer.
A perfectly flat surface is formed PHOTO: otdelo4nik.by
Among the disadvantages it is worth noting:
- the need to use several types of expensive equipment;
- work must be performed by people with certain qualifications;
- expediency of use on areas of more than 100 m².
Special equipment required PHOTO: germetik-plus.ru
Laying technology
To form a high-quality screed, you must carefully follow the technology of its pouring. For this, it is necessary to prepare suitable equipment and understand the specifics of its use.
Compliance with technology is mandatory PHOTO: static.tildacdn.com
Necessary equipment
To implement the mechanized method, you must have in stock:
- a pneumatic blower in which the mixture is prepared. A complete set with a special pneumatic drive facilitates the supply of ready-made concrete to the place of work. Depending on the characteristics of the equipment used, the device provides solution supply to a height of up to 120 m;
- a vibrating screed used to compact the mortar;
- a disc sander that levels and seals the screed;
- joint cutter. It is necessary for a large area of the room. Prevents cracking of concrete and promotes its rapid drying.
The pneumatic magnetal will help to raise the solution to the desired height PHOTO: perfectbuild.ulcraft.com
Preparatory work and waterproofing
Preparation of the base consists in checking its integrity and cleaning it from existing contaminants. All detected damage is removed with plaster or other suitable mortar. A waterproofing film is laid on the prepared base and attached to the walls with an overlap of 10-15 cm.
The level is being marked. For this, beacons are installed that determine to what height the concrete solution will be poured.
Pouring the mixture and maturing the screed
Depending on the type of equipment used, a solution is prepared, or the dry mixture is poured into a special hopper. After that, the mixture is poured according to the previously exposed beacons. With the help of a vibrating screed and a disc grinder, the mixture is compacted and leveled. Grinding of the joints begins 2-3 hours after pouring the mixture. Seams are cut if necessary.
The screed is left to dry completely. If the work was carried out indoors on the south side, it is advisable to cover the formed surface with a film.
The mixture is fed through a special hose PHOTO: sk-rm.ru
How much does it cost to lay a screed in a mechanized way?
The cost of forming a semi-dry screed directly depends on its thickness and the type of equipment used. The price is calculated for each square and often depends on the total area. On average, prices start from 300 - 500 rubles per 1 m².
Plastering work is one of the most difficult to repair. The technique for plastering surfaces allows you to get rid of manual labor when performing complex operations. You can buy a ready-made plastering machine, and if you want to save money, make it yourself.
Will one machine replace the construction crew?
The main advantage of using technology is the release from routine manual labor. True, a machine cannot completely replace a person, but it greatly facilitates and speeds up the process. There are a number of advantages that speak in favor of using specialized equipment:
- 1. Preparation of plaster mortar requires an exact ratio between dry mixes and water. If a person can make a mistake, then the machine, observing the exact dosage, prepares high-quality mixtures on the machine.
- 2. Mixing of mixtures is carried out mechanically. It is difficult for a person to stir the solution, it takes a long time. The machine does the batch quickly. Due to the accelerated flow, the solution contains a large amount of air, which makes it possible to save money, since at the same cost, more solution is obtained.
- 3. One plastering unit can replace an entire construction team. At the same time, the process proceeds much faster, and a uniformly applied thin layer of solution dries better.
That is, time is saved and less material is consumed. A high-quality and durable coating is created that does not require puttying and further finishing work to level the surface. The technique is easy to operate. The operating rules are described in the instructions that are attached. Therefore, a person of any training will be able to work with the device. The dimensions of the machine are small, special handles and wheels make it easier to transport equipment to the place of work.
The unit consists of separate modules, which makes it possible to assemble and disassemble it for transportation over long distances and storage. The serial machines have the ability to adjust work processes, so they can be used both on large construction sites and for small amounts of work.
How the miracle unit works and how to choose a solution
For uninterrupted operation of the device, constant access to the electrical network is required. Under certain circumstances, a plumbing is also required. If it is absent at the construction site, a pump is provided in serial devices, which allows you to pump water from any container. For mixing the mortar, plastering units are equipped with special hoppers, into which dry mixes are poured. They are loaded with ready-made mixtures coming from the plant.
After the hopper, the mixture enters a special chamber by a screw method, where it is mixed with water. The process is ongoing. The ready-made solution is immediately fed through the mortar hose to the distribution system. At the end of the hose there is a special plastering device - usually a gun. With its help, the solution is applied in a uniform layer of the required thickness. Plastering guns support several application modes. The choice of the mode depends on the consistency of the solution and the type of working surface.
Solutions that are used for machine application have the following features:
- short drying time;
- quickly gain strength;
- good adhesion to the processed surface;
- good heat and sound insulation characteristics;
- high vapor permeability.
If the mixtures are applied in an automated way, their characteristics are improved, which makes it possible to create an optimal microclimate in the room.
To level the walls of buildings from the outside, a conventional cement-sand mortar is used. For residential premises (living rooms, bedrooms, children's rooms), gypsum plasters are used. For rooms with high humidity (kitchens, bathrooms), we recommend taking mixtures based on acrylic resins, or in which polymer additives are used. Ready-made solutions are supplied already diluted with water, they can be applied immediately both by machine and by hand. Modern mixtures contain substances that increase the plastic and astringent characteristics of ready-made solutions.
Plastering shovels, pistols and cars - which technique should you prefer?
For the automatic application of mortars, special plastering units are used. Since this is an expensive equipment, its purchase is economically justified to perform large volumes of work. For one-time use, it is more profitable to rent equipment. There are several types of devices for mechanized surface treatment.
The pneumatic spade for applying mortar to walls and ceilings is a metal container for ready-made mortar, equipped with four nozzles for air supply and four for supplying a mixture. The diameter of the nozzles depends on the type of solution used. The plaster is supplied to the surface through a special pipe. The tool has a valve that regulates the supply of air under pressure. On average, up to 60 square meters can be processed per hour. For plastering the ceiling and walls, different models of pneumatic shovels are used. They differ in the location of the container with the solution relative to the tube through which the supply is carried out.
The pneumatic pistol is equipped with a nozzle barrel with a threaded connection, onto which nozzles are screwed. The differences between the nozzles are in the degree of spray of the plaster mixture. The container with the solution is located in the upper part of the unit; it is made of metal or plastic. The volume varies, but is usually around 5 liters. The solution supply is controlled by means of the trigger. At the bottom of the gun there is a hole for connecting a hose through which compressed air is supplied. Thanks to the attachments, you can use solutions of different consistencies and spray the mixture with different degrees of intensity. This feature of the gun makes it possible not only to perform rough plastering of the surface, but also to apply a finishing layer.
Plastering machines are presented on the construction market in various models, differing in equipment, dimensions, performance and price. The middle class plastering machine is small and can be operated by one person. The main component of the device is a pump that provides preparation, supply and spraying of the solution onto the surface to be treated. The granularity of mixtures for aggregates of this type should not exceed 2 mm. Depending on the design, some machines are equipped with separate containers for dry composition, water and mixing. The process of obtaining a solution is completely mechanized and is set by a special program. This makes it possible to obtain a high-quality mixture with exact proportions without air bubbles and lumps.
We make our unit from a fire extinguisher - according to the principle of a spray gun
If the purchase of a ready-made plastering unit is unprofitable, you can save money and make an application unit. The basis of such an apparatus is a fire extinguisher with a cylinder with a volume of about 4 liters. Such a blank has everything you need to create a machine for spraying the mixture: a nozzle, a handle, a lever that opens the hole at the exit.
First of all, it is necessary to cut off the bottom, since in the future the apparatus will need to be held with the nozzle down. The cut-off cylinder acts as a hopper. The only thing that needs to be supplemented with a homemade sprayer is a tube, through which compressed air will be supplied. It should be cut into the side wall of the cylinder opposite the valve outlet through which the mixture is sprayed. The device works on the principle of a spray gun. Compressed air is supplied from the compressor. For high-quality spraying, the nozzle diameter should not exceed 4-5 mm.
The following factors affect the power of a homemade device:
- nozzle diameter;
- the distance between the nozzle and the compressor nozzle;
- supply air pressure.
To increase the power of the jet, the air supply tube must be as close as possible to the outlet valve. If the plastering is carried out "under a fur coat", then the distance should be no more than 1.5–2 cm. For fine solutions, the distance should be further reduced. The smaller the gap, the more powerful the jet will be. It is important to increase the pressure.
You can fix the tube using nuts with gaskets, then it is easier to adjust the distance, and the connection needs to be welded. There is another option without using a welding machine - fixing with resin. This will not only secure the tube, but also seal it off. To do this, the tube must be fixed at an angle of 45 degrees with the axis of the outlet hole and with the ground. The resin is poured in liquid form so that the final level is below the nozzle. Filling with resin is beneficial in that the liquid flows down the inclined tube to the nozzle evenly. Care must be taken not to block the outlet. Then you need to wait until the resin hardens.
At the final stage, the air compressor is connected with a hose to the nozzle orifice. To operate the apparatus, create a pressure of 2 atmospheres. With a little pressure, the finish is rough, suitable "for a fur coat." A smoother coating with full pore filling is obtained at higher pressures.
The right technology + good apparatus = perfectly flat wall
Before starting finishing work, the work surface requires preparation. The surface must be cleaned from the remnants of the previous finish. It should be free of damp and oily stains. If there was fungus and mold on the walls, it is necessary to treat it with special means. The prepared surface must be flat, firm and dry. Apply a primer to the finished work surface. When the coating is dry, you can start plastering.
First, prepare the solution. It is better to dilute the dry mixture with milk of lime rather than water, then the coating will be more durable. The cement-sand mixture is diluted as standard: 1 part of cement and 3-4 parts of river sand. The solution should turn out like thick sour cream, it should not be too liquid. At the final stage, when kneading, we add plasticizers to increase the viscosity. If you use factory plastering equipment, then an instruction manual is attached to it. Check for kinked hoses before operation. When using a homemade device, the sequence of actions is as follows:
- 1. Fill the container 2/3 with the solution.
- 2. Stand at an angle to the surface to be treated. The leading hand holds the gun while the other hand holds the hose. The hose must be long enough to move freely along the wall.
- 3. Press the trigger only when the gun is pointed at the surface. The distance from the treated surface to the nozzle is at least 30 cm.
- 4. The jet should be at an angle of 90 degrees to the wall surface. When plastering the ceiling, we direct the stream at a slight angle away from ourselves, applying the solution in a thin layer.
- 5. Start applying the mixture from the corner, filling cracks and depressions first. Apply strips about 70 cm wide.
- 6. Apply each subsequent layer after half an hour, especially if lime is present in the solution.
- 7. The number of layers depends on the thickness of the plaster to be obtained.
Any repair is not complete without aids and a large number of various building materials, as well as equipment. The use of such improvised means greatly reduces the time of work and saves energy. Thanks to various equipment and tools for repairs, it is much easier and more convenient to work, and the quality of the work performed also increases.
An important helper
Modern developments in the field of construction equipment have greatly simplified and facilitated the work of builders. One such mechanical assistant is the automatic plastering machine. with internal and external are of great importance: they are the most painstaking and laborious, and the result in the literal sense should be evident.
Mechanization of the finishing process allows you to reduce the time of work, minimize the cost of using human resources. In the construction of large-scale objects, these conditions are the main ones, since instead of a whole brigade of workers, one or two people can do it. And this, in turn, significantly affects material costs.
Description of equipment
A wall treatment device is a unit, the device and the principle of operation of which are quite simple. Cars are becoming more and more popular lately. This is due to a number of advantages:
- Ease of operation.
- The speed of completing any finishing work.
- Technical reliability.
- Versatility: the ability to apply dry and wet plaster mixes.
- Layer uniformity.
- The ability to cover large areas.
Plastering machine is practically indispensable for large-scale construction and repair. Plastering walls by hand in the production premises of a future plant or high-rise buildings of an office or apartment building is quite difficult. It will be long and difficult even with the most experienced team of plasterers.
In addition, you can use equipment that works on ready-made mixtures. In this case, the machine will be cheaper, since there is no hopper for solution preparation.
Principle of operation
The plaster, which is applied using this mechanism, spreads and lays down more evenly and accurately. This greatly simplifies and shortens the period of repair work. It is necessary to ensure access of the equipment to the mains. Sometimes it will be necessary to provide special conditions, since industrial modifications with a power of 380, and not 220 watts are quite common on sale. In addition, a source of water supply is needed. If there is no water supply, you can use any container with water; a special pump for its forced supply is included in the kit. The machine accurately calculates the required amount of water and dry mix. This allows you to get a high quality solution at the exit.
The standard length of the hose allows you to process surfaces up to 5 meters high. There is no need to use scaffolding, as in the case of manual work.
The quality of the mixture used for wall decoration also affects the result of finishing work. It will be most simple and convenient to use a gypsum solution. It is adapted specifically for machine application, as opposed to cement-sand. The first option also has a number of advantages that have a positive effect on the results of work in which the plastering machine is involved:
- Environmentally friendly material.
- Quality product.
- No further filler required.
- Surface whiteness.
- Fast drying of the wall.
Gypsum plaster allows moisture and air to pass through and maintain a natural indoor climate.
Stages of work
- In any construction or renovation work, preparation is essential. She is half of the whole story. The future work surface should be well cleaned of old layers so that the surface of the wall or ceiling is ready for finishing.
- It does not matter in what way the plastering takes place, the surface must be flat. For this, beacons are installed that measure the curvature and level the surface horizontally and vertically.
- Installation of profiles for processing corners.
- Primer application.
- The plastering machine is equipped with a special tank in which the mixture is prepared for subsequent application to the dried primer.
- Application of the mixture with a technical gun, which distributes it evenly over the wall.
- Leveling and distributing the solution according to the level of the beacons, adding to those places where it is not enough, and removing the excess.
The plastering machine helps to carry out each stage consistently and accurately. The application of the mortar should be started from the corner to the center. It is better to make stripes less than a meter wide. After completing each stage, the wall surface must be covered with a film, which is then cut off. Such recommendations are left by the manufacturers of equipment and materials.
Wall surface treatment
This stage is important and final in plastering. By the way, it can also be greatly accelerated and facilitated. A plastering machine can help with this. This usually happens with a sponge and water. But in this case, the equipment practically does its job, it is especially convenient for large finishing areas. The surface is completely suitable for painting or wallpapering. In addition, the final result depends on the class of plaster. It is different for different premises.
Equipment selection
A plastering machine, reviews of which are predominantly positive due to its great advantages, should serve for a long time and meet all the requirements of customers. Manufacturers today offer a wide selection of different models that are capable of plastering surfaces. The most popular are German, Austrian and Polish samples of this technique. Manufacturers are ready to offer whole specialized stations or fairly simple units that can operate in various weather conditions, with a large temperature difference from 30 degrees of heat to minus 40 in winter.
The UShM-150 model is in great demand among construction organizations. The plastering machine of this modification in terms of technical and quality characteristics meets all the requirements for high-quality plastering, painting and preparation of various types of mixtures. In addition, for greater convenience, it is equipped with a control and adjustment center. This allows you to control the speed and strength of the solution feed.
What are the criteria for making a choice?
The main purchase criteria should be:
- Ease of operation. It is important that a person can cope with management even without special construction skills.
- Saving materials. As a rule, the consumption of mortar for machine plastering is much less than for manual plastering.
- Low power consumption.
- Suitable dimensions and low weight. The dimensions should be chosen taking into account how many people will work with the equipment, how extensive the finishing work is.
- Functionality. Often these machines are equipped with wall painting equipment.
- The reliability and quality of the device.
- Easy to transport and assemble at different sites.
If all these conditions are met, you can safely purchase such an assistant and perform a wide range of repair and finishing work not only on walls, but also on flooring.
Alternative
Of course, not everyone can buy such a unit. Its price varies from 2 to 20 thousand euros. Most often it is used by specialized firms that have repair and construction teams. This has a positive effect on the image of the organization and attracts customers. In addition to buying, you can also consider renting a car. It will be somewhat cheaper. And even, to some extent, easier.
As a rule, privately, we do not do repairs too often, especially such extensive ones, with a complete renovation of the walls and floor. Buying an expensive tool will be impractical. It may not always work to resell it. Therefore, it will be quite acceptable to take it one-time for the duration of the specific finishing work.
Do it yourself
In addition to buying and renting, a fairly good option for acquiring equipment is to assemble an apparatus such as a plastering machine with your own hands. Of course, it will not look quite standard, but it can perform the same functions, and you can even add something new.
Perhaps its performance and power will not be so high. Skilled craftsmen can use out of order household items for this. The simplest and most common set of homemade equipment is something like this:
- Old fire extinguisher.
- Nozzle.
- A tube.
- Compressor.
It turns out quite convenient and, as they say, low-budget option. A hand-held plastering machine like this will make your job easier and help you deal with difficult surface spots, even if you are not a professional finishing artist.