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Article: How to Maintain and Protect Venetian Plaster Walls

How to Maintain and Protect Venetian Plaster Walls

How to Maintain and Protect Venetian Plaster Walls

Venetian plaster is more than just a decorative finish — it’s a surface that combines natural beauty with strength. With the right care, it can last for decades, developing character and depth that paint or wallpaper simply can’t match.

The good news is maintenance is easier than many people expect. From sealing and cleaning to knowing what products to avoid, a few simple steps will keep Venetian plaster walls looking fresh and refined.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to protect your plaster, keep it clean, and make sure it continues to enhance your home or project for years to come.

Here’s a refined version of the section with those products included:

Why Protection Matters

Finishes like Riflesso, Volare, and Infinito are all lime-based. This gives them their natural beauty, breathability, and depth of colour — but it also means they need the right care to stay looking their best.

  • Sealing adds durability – applying a protective sealer such as Rain Protex helps resist stains, splashes, and dirt build-up.

  • Helps in humid areas – kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic zones benefit most from added protection.

  • Preserves the finish – whether it’s a high-gloss Riflesso wall or a softer Volare or Infinito texture, sealing keeps the look consistent over time.

Protection doesn’t change the finish — it simply locks in the beauty and ensures it lasts for years.

Sealing and Protective Options

The right protection depends on the finish you’re working with. Each product responds best to a specific sealer:

  • Riflesso (Polished Plaster)

    • For high-shine, mirror-like finishes, apply Cera (wax).

    • This enhances the depth of polish and provides a protective layer without dulling the surface.

  • Volare (Marmorino Medium)

    • Works in satin or semi-polished finishes.

    • Protect with Rain Protex, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, or humid spaces.

  • Infinito (Textured Lime Finish)

    • More absorbent due to its surface movement.

    • Seal with Rain Protex to reduce dirt absorption and make cleaning easier.

  • Microcement (if used in the same project)

    • Cement-based, not lime-based.

    • Requires a polyurethane topcoat for waterproofing — essential in showers, floors, and countertops.

👉 General rule: Cera for polished finishes, Rain Protex for satin/textured lime finishes, polyurethane for Microcement.

Day-to-Day Cleaning & Maintenance Tips

Venetian plaster is surprisingly easy to live with — as long as you use the right approach.
  • Regular Dusting
    • Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth or feather duster to remove everyday dust.
  • Gentle Cleaning
    • Wipe with a slightly damp cloth for light marks.
    • For tougher stains, use mild soap and water — never harsh chemicals or bleach.
  • Avoid Abrasives
    • Don’t use scouring pads or rough sponges, which can scratch the finish.
    • Always opt for soft cloths or non-abrasive sponges.
  • Extra Care in Kitchens & Bathrooms
    • Quickly wipe away splashes (soap, food, or toothpaste) before they dry.

    • This prevents any long-term staining, especially on matte finishes like Infinito.

👉 With simple, gentle cleaning, plaster finishes keep their richness and texture without fading or wearing away.

When to Re-Seal

Even with good day-to-day care, Venetian plaster benefits from periodic resealing to keep its protection strong. How often depends on where the finish is installed:
  • Low-Traffic Walls (living rooms, bedrooms, feature walls)

    • Usually need little to no resealing.

    • A fresh coat of Cera or Rain Protex every 5–7 years is enough if required.

  • High-Use Areas (hallways, stairwells, kitchens)

    • May need resealing every 3–5 years depending on wear and cleaning frequency.

  • Bathrooms & Humid Areas

    • Splashes and condensation mean finishes work harder.

    • Reseal every 2–3 years to keep surfaces resistant to water and staining.

👉 A good indicator: if water no longer beads on the surface, or if the wall feels more porous, it’s time for a new coat of sealer.Transform Your Walls with Venetian Plaster

 

With the right sealing and simple maintenance, finishes like Riflesso, Volare, and Infinito will stay beautiful for years — whether it’s a high-shine feature wall or a textured lime surface full of depth. Venetian plaster isn’t just about looks; it’s an investment in durability and timeless style.

👉 Want to learn how to apply and care for these finishes yourself? Explore our online training at Finishop.com, or get in touch to discuss bespoke plasterwork for your next project.

🎓 Free Mini-Courses on Venetian Plaster Basics

Want to improve your technique before maintaining your walls?
Explore our Free Courses Collection — a series of 4–7 minute videos covering essential Venetian plaster skills, from trowel control to surface preparation.

👉 View Free Courses

 


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