While there are many specific plaster types and finishes, the three most common categories are:

• Lime Plaster: An ancient and traditional plaster made from a mixture of lime, sand, and water. It’s highly breathable and flexible, making it ideal for historic buildings. Read more on the benefits of using Lime plaster in restoration in this article.
• Gypsum Plaster: The most common modern plaster, made from gypsum mineral. It sets much faster and is easier to work with than lime plaster, though it is less breathable.
• Cement Plaster: A durable and hard plaster made from cement, sand, and water. It is typically used for exterior applications or as a base coat due to its strength and water resistance.