Plastering is a method of coating the internal and external surfaces of walls and ceilings with cement mortar to achieve the required finish and aesthetic view to the bare R.C.C. and masonry surfaces. It protects the R.C.C. and masonry work from atmospheric effects and increases the durability. Plastering is the practice of coating rough walls including irregular surfaces in the building or houses as well as other buildings with plastic material termed plaster. It also preserves the work of masonry. To have a shiny, smooth, normal, clean as well as durable surface finish, and often even to enhance a presentation. To shield the soil from ambient effects by serving as a protective coating.
Pointing is the practice of completing mortar joints in exposed brick or stone masonry via an appropriate cement either lime mortar. In order to better protect its joints again from the environment but also to enhance the appearance of the building structure. It must be remembered that the mortar joints are all just vulnerable points in the system and thus should be properly prepared from its collapsing impact of rainwater. Sunrays as well as snowfall, which are inexpensive, can be taken in areas with low rainfall.
Difference between Plastering and Pointing:
| Plastering | Pointing |
| It provides an even, regular and smooth surface. | It does not provide even, regular and smooth surface. |
| They conceals the defective workmanship | They cannot conceal the defective workmanship. |
| The plaster covers the complete surface of the masonry. | Pointing covers only the joints of the masonry. |
| Type of plasters used are lime , cement, mud plaster, Water proof plaster and plaster of paris. | Type of pointing used are bent pointing, whether pointing, flush pointing, and V pointing. |
| They provide a satisfactory base or ground for decorating the surface by applying it to whitewash. | It does not provide a satisfactory base or ground for decorating the surface by applying white washing etc. |
