Stabilization & Reinforcement of Fibrous Plaster Panels and Coffers
Using the HPCS products to stabilize and strengthen fibrous plaster panels.
Fibrous plaster molded panels, such as coffers, were mass-produced off site in thin lightweight panels that allowed for elaboration without the costs and skill required for traditional plaster. The panels were typically made in three basic steps.
- A pattern of varying degrees of complexity was created and from it a mold produced.
- Plaster was then brushed into the mold. The plaster was embedded with plant fibers to give it more strength.
- More plaster was brushed into the mold. The finished thickness of a cast plaster panel might be only ½.
Testimonials
"Architects know that Canning will only do the finest work possible. "-DUNCAN G. STROIK,AIA, PRINCIPAL DUNCAN G. STROIK ARCHITECT, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA-
"Canning has brought an outstanding common sense attitude of accomplishment to their work when many others are lost within myriad complex issues."-RUTHANN HUBBARD-KEMPER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PENNSYLVANIA CAPITOL PRESERVATION COMMITTEE, HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA
Our Process
Often a plaster survey/assessment of the fibrous panels/coffers is required to determine the extent of the problems. We assess the structural integrity of the plaster system and compare it’s current condition to its “as-built” condition to determine where the plaster system is in its “service life”- Dissect one or more of the plaster & natural fiber (jute) wads that connect the panels to the armature.
- Determine if natural fibers are desiccated (dry rotted).
- If fibers are desiccated, connections need to be reinforced.
- If panels are cracking and natural fibers are desiccated, then panels also need to be reinforced.
- Apply diluted formulation of acrylic resin to back of panel/coffer. The resin will fill cracks and strengthen the matrix of the panels.
- If relatively small area requires treatment, hand-brush apply an acrylic gel mixed with polyester fibres (i.e. Kevlar) to the back of each panel.
- If larger area requires treatment, spray apply the acrylic gel mixed with polyester fibers to the back of each panel.
- This treatment program will strengthen the fibrous plaster panels and reinforce each panel’s connection to the metal or wood armature.