Can I Apply Earthaus Plaster to Plywood?Updated a month ago
Yes, however, careful surface preparation is essential to avoid issues that can compromise both the aesthetic and performance of the final Earthaus Plaster Finish. There are two main concerns to address: joint cracking and tannin bleed-through.
Joint Cracking: Plywood joints are more prone to movement than traditional drywall, which can lead to cracking at the joints where two pieces of plywood come together. To mitigate this, all plywood joints must be reinforced with fiberglass mesh tape and coated with at least one layer of quick-set drywall compound such as DuraBond. Once dry, sand the surface to a smooth, flush finish to ensure no joints telegraph through the plaster.
Tannin Bleed-Through: Some types of plywood, especially those made with oak or other tannin-rich species, can leach yellowish stains into the plaster over time. To prevent this, apply two coats of a water-based stain-blocking primer to the entire surface, allowing full drying time between coats. This barrier significantly reduces the risk of discoloration in the final plaster layer. The second coat of primer should contain Earthaus Primer Grit to ensure adhesion of the plaster to the substrate.
Following these steps ensures that Earthaus Plaster performs beautifully and durably on custom plywood range hoods, maintaining both color integrity and structural stability.