natural plasters as part of a healthy remodel

Warm and inviting clay plaster in a bedroom.
Warm and inviting clay plaster in a bedroom. (photo Sam Delphius)

There are many choices when pursuing a natural, healthy home remodel. One option we support is incorporating natural plasters into your home because of their health and comfort benefits.

The term “natural plaster” refers to plaster that is made with ingredients that are less highly processed and less synthetic than conventional wall coverings. Clay and lime are the primary binders used in natural plasters. Natural plasters are desirable because they are non-toxic, low-impact, vapor-permeable and can be quite beautiful. They can contribute to better indoor air quality, humidity management, and improved acoustics.

Subtle, suede finish on a clay plastered wall.
Subtle, suede finish on a clay plastered wall.

Natural plasters can be applied to almost any wall surface with the correct preparation.  They can be used in renovations, new conventional construction, straw bale construction, and hybrid construction.

We specialize in making our own clay and lime plasters from raw materials either from the job site or sourced as locally as possible.  We formulate different mixes for specific applications and test our mixes to get the right strength, durability, color, and consistency.

We are also trained installers of American Clay, a ready-mixed clay plaster manufactured in Albuquerque, New Mexico. American Clay has spent over a decade researching and refining their products and can ensure a level of consistency and reproducibility that is difficult to match in the field.  They have also developed systems designed to adhere to drywall and previously painted surfaces without the aid of lath.  This can be a great advantage when there is no room around trim or fixtures for a half-inch of lath and plaster.

We are passionate about the advantages of natural finishes and look forward to working with you to include them in your renovation or building project.


See what our clients and colleagues say about our plaster:

“I’ve seen many projects that Simple Construct have worked on and am always impressed with the quality & beauty of the clay plastering they have done. So much so, that we always seek them out when we need a great home for the annual SD_GBC Green Homes Tour. I’m currently selling a home they worked on and not only were they extremely knowledgeable about the product, my clients were thrilled with how easy to work with they were. Personal & truly caring about their work and their clients, I couldn’t recommend Rebecca and Mike more highly!” A. Pascu, Realtor, 2017
“Bliss. That’s how I would describe my bedroom after refinishing the walls with Simple Construct’s clay plaster. It may be just psychological, but the room feels quieter and I’ve been sleeping better. And there was no paint smell. Just an earthy, wholesomeness. I can’t see painting any room again.” D. Ponizil, client, Encinitas, 2016
Clay Plaster Interior Detail Deer Park Monastery
“Not only are Rebecca and Mike experts at straw bale construction and green building technologies, they are passionate about Natural Building and committed to spreading these concepts to as many people as possible. If you are interested in straw bale or any type of green and natural building, you must contact Simple Construct because you will not find a more experienced, committed or collaborative green builder in San Diego!” E. Earl, Project Manager, 2016


More info:

clay plaster

lime plaster

plastering straw bale walls

exterior plasters

plastering drywall & other surfaces