Finishing Work in construction is a group of construction activities relating to the exterior and interior finishing of buildings to enhance their service and aesthetic qualities. In many cases, the overall quality of a building or structure being put into service depends on the quality of its execution. The main types of finishing work include facing, plastering, flooring, and painting. In this blog, we will be discussing sub-activities involved for each major finishing item.
1. Application of 6 mm thick smooth cement plaster
In this item, 6-millimeter thick smooth cement finish plaster is to be applied on the ceiling in ratios of one part cement and four parts of sand. The first step for plastering is to clean all the joints and surfaces of the wall with a wire brush and make the surface rough. On the RCC surface, hacking should be performed. Necessary staging should be erected for ease of plaster application. This should be made to ensure surface flatness & levels. Mortar should be prepared on a hard surface. Ensure proper curing for at least 7 days.
2. Application of 12 mm thick smooth cement plaster
Here 12-millimetre thick smooth cement finish plaster is to be applied to the walls, beams, column, drain and bends to all brick and RCC. Cement sand mortar is used as a plaster mix in ratios of one part cement and four parts of sand. Before plastering, the surfaces have to be cleaned with a wire brush, there should be no oil or grease, etc. left on the surface. If there exists any holes or depressions on the surface, then it should be filled with mortar mix. Scaffolding should be provided where the plaster is to be done. After plastering, curing should continue for at least 7 days to protect the plastered surface.
3. Application of 18 mm thick MALA plaster
Here 18-millimetre thick smooth cement MALA plaster is laid in two coats, that is, the 1st layer is 12 millimetres with rough finishing, and the 2nd layer is 6 millimetres thick with fine sand. The first step is to wash the mortar joints and keep it wet for at least 6 hours before applying the plaster. Apply the first coat of plaster between the spaces formed on the wall surface. Roughen the surfaces with wires, for better bonding to the second coat. After the second coat, remove the scaffolding step by step & fill the holes with a mortar. Liquid waterproofing admixture of approved make should be added. Curing of plaster shall be carried out for at least 7 days. The activities should be carried out for heights up to 11 m as per given technical specifications, instructed by the Engineer in Charge.
4. Application of cement-based putty
A thick layer of 1.5 millimetres of white cement-based putty is to be applied to the full area of plaster in two coats. Cement putty is applied to fill uneven surfaces and all pores of mortar or concrete walls. Before starting the application of cement-based putty, the surface has to be watered properly. After the first coat of white cement-based putty is dry, rub the surface gently with a wet sponge to remove loose particles. The surface should be allowed to dry for at least three hours and then apply the second coat. Leave the surface to dry for a minimum of 10-12 hours, preferably overnight to make the surface ready for the paint to be applied.
5. Application of emulsion paint
In this item, three or more coats of Acrylic Premium Emulsion paint, of approved colour and shade are to be applied on a clean surface. First of all, prepare the surface by ensuring it is clean and free from dust. One coat of primer is applied on the surface to ensure that the finish will be streak free before the application of the emulsion paint. The surface should be allowed to dry for at least 48 hours. The thinning of emulsion paint is done with water. The emulsion paint is applied in the usual manner with a brush, spray or roller. The finishing surface should present a smooth finish.
6. Application of weatherproof exterior paint
In this item, three or more coats of weatherproof exterior paint, of approved make and shade are to be applied. Before the paint is applied, the surface area must be clean and free from dust and any other debris. As the exterior walls are exposed to moisture, humidity, and water, make sure to get rid of all the accumulated dust and dirt. A coat of primer should be applied on the dry surface before the application of the paint. The weatherproof paint gives good and even shades over the plasterwork, and brick surfaces at all levels.
7. Application of Patta plaster
Patta plaster is to be laid over the slope portion of chajja in ratios of one part cement and four parts of sand. Mala finish is to be applied as a sub-base of painting as the plaster needs a rough surface. Three coats of terracotta paint of the approved colour are to be applied with a brush. The unit rate shall include providing and filling brickbats for making a slope.
8. Filling of chasis (zarri)
Zarri is filled in the brick or concrete surfaces with the cement sand mortar mix in ratios of one part cement and four parts of sand. It is provided to fix electrical and other utility conduits. Before the filling of the chassis (zarri), the surface should be cleaned properly. It should be ensured that all the mechanical and electrical work which is associated with the plaster surface should be covered. Any holes left in the wall should be filled with construction grout. The surface should be finished with a smooth finish making the surface good to match the existing wall or concrete.
9. Providing grooves
In this item, a 12 x 12mm groove is made, in cement plaster for architectural elevation as well as, at the junction of beams, walls and columns with brick masonry and RCC work at all levels, above or below the ground level. A horizontal groove between walls and beams will be formed by cutting using grinders after plastering the wall surface. Curing shall be carried out for at least 7 days.
10. Application of Texture Paint
In this item, texture paint with a finish is to be applied on the interior or exterior wall at all levels of the approved sample. The holes and depression should be finished properly with the mortar mix. Texture paint shall have a coat of sealer to protect the surface from dust and moisture. As the texture paint is applied directly to the bare drywall, the primer has to be applied on the levelled surface. The adjoining surfaces shall be covered with drop cloths or with plastic sheeting. Before applying the texture paint, patching should be done on the wall. When the applied texture material has reached the desired consistency, roll over the surface again, if required.
Note
The rate shall include the measurements for surface line and groves, watta, offset jams, drip mould etc., complete as per the architect’s instructions. Provision shall be made for electrical conduits and boxes in the plaster to be finished properly after conducting the work.
Single measurements shall be paid for all kinds of painting works. There will be no additional factor considered for the number of coats applied and the roughness of the surface.
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