Five Options for Natural Wall Finishes
Your walls are what you surround you when you are home. What do you surround yourself with?
Wall finish may not be the first thing on your mind as you prepare to contract your own home, especially if this will be the first project you have ever contracted. You may plan to figure that out when you get there. You could do that, but you may find you don’t have enough money in the job to get the wall you really want. Why put yourself through that frustration? Know from the start what you want and how much it will cost. Here are some natural options to consider.
1. Earthen Plaster. There are many types of plaster out there, and even several options when considering earthen plaster. Shop well. Look for quality materials that will last a long time. Earthen materials are known to weather quickly, so you may want to limit their use to interior walls; although they can certainly be used in exterior applications if the planning and maintenance are in place.
2. Stone. Real stone is very rarely used these days with the introduction of faux stone. The faux material is easier to work with and lighter weight; however, there is nothing like real stone when it comes to natural materials. It is a great thermal sink (holds heat and cold well for future distribution) so a good option for passive solar designs.
3. Wood. Perhaps an obvious choice, but one not used as often as it once was. I’m not talking about the late, great 1970′s wood paneling mind you. I’m talking about real wood. Warm and beautiful and finished a million different ways from paint to stain.
4. Tile. Similar to stone except easier to work with. Tile options are immense. You can do just about anything you can imagine if you use tile.
5. Gypsum and Other Natural Plasters. Used most often on top of “blue board” or plaster board, gypsum plasters create a smooth and beautiful surface. There are all kinds of styles that can be created and colors are endless as well.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Andrew Morrison is the co-founder of Straw Bale Innovations, LLC, a company specializing in straw bale construction education and the proprietor of www.StrawBale.com. Andrew has a passion for straw bale construction that is matched only by his desire to teach his knowledge to others. For over 15 years, Andrew was a skilled, licensed general contractor with experience in designing and building both conventional and straw bale homes. In 2007 Andrew closed his contracting company to focus entirely on teaching workshops and consulting. You can learn more about his workshops at www.StrawBaleWorkshops.com and his consulting services at www.StrawBaleConsulting.com. Andrew received a BA degree from Hampshire College in 1995 for Glacial Geology. He also has a degree in construction technology form the College of the Redwoods.
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