You can apply the best Tadelakt Moroccan plaster yourself using a range of specialised tools. You apply the plaster using trowels of varying shapes that serve different purposes depending on the type of surface, space, or area to which you are applying it.
Once your plaster is ready and your base coat is set, it's time to start the Tadelakt application. You'll apply the plaster in several thin layers, using a sponge trowel for initial coats and a flexible steel or plastic trowel for the last coat. Spread the Tadelakt evenly and thinly across the surface.
The tadelakt process is deceptively simple. A natural powder paste is applied to the surface, then polished with a smooth stone. This is repeated seven times. Finally, the surface is sealed by rubbing with a black olive oil soap.
A less expensive alternative are our traditional lime stuccos based on high quality hydrated lime. My lime stuccos are also suitable for outdoor use and showers, with the same restrictions as described above for Tadelakt . They are visually indistinguishable from Tadelakt, but cost a little more than half the price.
“Tadelakt is more expensive than entry-level tile or solid surfaces,” says Baldoni. “One also needs to ensure the lime plastering is done by experienced individuals who know what they're doing. Mixing, polishing, and adding dye to it to create the color of your choice and waterproofing requires skill.
It is not difficult to maintain tadelakt surfaces. To maintain the water-repellent property, tadelakt must be regularly re-soaped in splash water areas. Sharp, acidic cleaning agents should be avoided at all costs. Tadelakt may only be cleaned and maintained with Marseille soap.
The price of Tadelakt varies, but as a good guideline for materials it ranges from $5 to $10 per square foot. You can purchase a 44lb bag like this Tadelakt Moroccan Lime Plaster from Amazon for around $235 if you want to go down the DIY route.
Black Soap is produced by boiling olive oil with potassium hydroxide. In Morocco, this highly refatting soap is traditionally used as a household cleaner as well as for personal care. Moreover it is used as a protective treatment for Tadelakt surfaces.
According to this article from Brownstoner, where mineral plasters like Venetian is a two- or three-coat process, tadelakt requires six to seven coats with the addition of burnishing and—what makes it truly magic—an application of an oil-based soap.
Tadelakt Finish can be applied over primed level-4 finished drywall or primed previously painted surfaces.
Tadelakt (pronounced ta-dee-lact) is a form of lime plaster that is mixed and applied by hand creating subtle variations in pigmentation that give surfaces a tactile, organic feel.
Substrates & Priming
Tile backer boards are recommended for wet areas, a backing coat of Kreidezeit Lime Wall Finish (Fine) is needed prior to the Tadelakt application. Tadelakt can also be applied to lime plasters, plasterboard, concrete block, breeze block, sand and cement, gypsum plasters and some ceramics.
Plastering is a job that even the most confident of DIYers will steer clear of. However, with some preparation, patience and know how, you can plaster your own walls and achieve a smooth, professional finish.
Formulated with lime, coarse pumice aggregate, and plant based binder, Base Plaster is the Base Coat for the Tadelakt Finish System: (1) Base Plaster (2) Tadelakt Plaster, (3) Olive Oil Soap Sealer, (4) Beeswax Protective Sealer. Base Plaster is used in both shower and non-shower Tadelakt Finish applications.
Tadelakt needs skilled pros to apply 6-7 layers and polish with stones and soap. The plaster resists mold, is easy to clean, and comes in many colors. With proper care, Tadelakt can last for years and may boost home value.
While the skin feels dry after using the African Blacksoap , it does not feel that way with the Marrocan Blacksoap . This is due to the olive oil in the soap that nourishes the skin. After using the African Blacksoap, it is therefore highly recommended to rub the skin thoroughly with butter or oil.
Tadelakt is designed for use in wet areas like showers, tub surrounds, and backsplashes. It can also be used for decorative dry area applications, and outdoors.
MULTI-PURPOSE - Our Spa grade Moroccan Black Soap is a versatile and multi-purpose daily cleanser and skin conditioner; It delivers one of the world's most powerful deep pore facials WITHOUT harsh chemicals, and can be applied daily to even the most dry, flaky and sensitive skin.
You can apply the best Tadelakt Moroccan plaster yourself using a range of specialised tools. You apply the plaster using trowels of varying shapes that serve different purposes depending on the type of surface, space, or area to which you are applying it.
If you are someone who embraces the wabi-sabi of natural stone or wood, you will appreciate the variability and unique beauty of tadelakt. Character: Traditional tadelakt darkens and shows micro-cracks every time it gets wet. These cracks are part of the nature of the material.
Tadelakt can go over cement board, drywall, lath and plaster, or brick, cement, or stone.
Tadelakt or Moroccan plaster shares the same lime base as the other surfaces but differs from Venetian plaster and limewash in both finish and durability. Somewhat laborious to render, Tadelakt plaster requires around seven or eight plaster applications and specialist knowledge to install, but the results are lasting.
It is recommended to let the Tadelakt plaster cure for at least 7 days before drilling. When drilling, use techniques designed for hard surfaces like tile. This includes selecting a drill bit specifically made for tile and applying light pressure to avoid cracking.