External plasters applied to concrete blockwork

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to investigate and analyse different external plasters, available locally, and study how the use of these external plasters may enhance the overall thermal performance of local concrete blockwork. This study provides a practical insight into how the various types of plasters available do improve the U-value of a concrete block wall. Three main types of external plasters were used as the basis of this study. Results demonstrate that the more sophisticated type of plaster helped to greatly improve the U-value of a bare concrete block wall. This enhanced U-value, however, is achieved using more expensive plaster systems. Thus, from this study, the energy conscious designer can see at a glance how, with the help of specific external plasters, a more energy efficient building may be achieved, and how an existing building's thermal efficiency may be improved.