Common questions about mineral finishes, expectations, and our process.
No. Mineral and decorative finishes are hand-applied materials. While reference images guide tone and texture, each wall reacts differently to light, substrate, and application. Variation is inherent and intentional.
No. Movement, tonal shifts, and visible strokes are part of the character of mineral finishes and are not classified as defects.
Mineral finishes are not suitable for clients expecting flat, uniform colour. If uniformity is a priority, we will recommend alternative systems.
We work with multiple mineral and decorative systems. Materials are specified based on surface condition, environment, and desired outcome rather than brand preference.
Final material selection is confirmed after surface evaluation to ensure compatibility and durability.
Most mineral systems are breathable and low-VOC. Suitability depends on application area and substrate.
We do not provide 'standard' or budget painting. We execute Architectural Paint Systems. This includes moisture assessment, substrate-specific priming, and multi-layer execution. If you are seeking a 'cheap lick of paint' without technical oversight, our services are not a match.
No. Lime Paint is a mineral finish that creates 'clouding' or tonal movement. If you want a perfectly flat, plastic-look solid colour, you should choose a standard acrylic paint (which we do not prioritize).
No. Hand-applied plaster marks are the intentional signature of the artisan. We do not provide 'machine-smooth' mineral plaster. If you desire zero texture, this system is not for you.
No. While highly durable, microcement can crack if the building structure moves or if heavy objects are dropped. It is a premium skin, not a structural reinforcement.
Liquid metal contains real metal particles that will oxidise and patina over time. This is a natural reaction to the environment and is considered a feature, not a defect.
No. Reactive finishes are inherently unpredictable. We guide the direction, but the final pattern is a result of material behaviour. No two walls will ever be the same.
Our industrial systems prioritize function over decoration. While they look clean and professional, they are specified for chemical and abrasion resistance, not as a decorative 'showroom' finish.
No. Waterproofing systems prevent surface penetration; they do not fix cracked pipes or structural slab failures. Structural issues must be resolved by a specialist before our application.
No. Designs are locked in during the mock-up phase. Any on-site changes to approved graphics will halt production and be fully chargeable as a new project scope.
Yes. Certain finishes require onsite evaluation to assess wall condition, moisture, and preparation requirements.
Preparation is specified per project and may include surface repair, priming, sealing, or leveling depending on the chosen system.
Yes. We protect adjacent surfaces as part of our standard process. Clients are advised to clear small items where possible.
Mineral and decorative surface systems are bespoke, hand-applied works. Once the application process begins (surface preparation or material mixing), the project is strictly non-refundable. Cancellations after material procurement but before application will incur a restocking and administrative fee.
No. Plain Work is not liable for failures caused by structural defects, water ingress from window frames, rising damp from slabs, or leaking pipes discovered after our initial assessment. Surface systems are finishes, not structural waterproofing repairs.
Texture and tonal movement are agreed upon during the sampling/mock-up phase. If the client requests a change after application has started, this is classified as a change in scope and will be fully chargeable at current rates.
Only for application-related defects identified during the final site handover. Any damage caused after handover by furniture movement, other contractors (e.g. electrical/plumbing), cleaning chemicals, or general wear is strictly chargeable.
Mineral finishes are seamless. Small patches may remain visible due to the hand-applied nature of the material. To achieve a perfectly seamless result after damage, we may recommend re-coating the entire wall from corner to corner at the client's expense.
Yes, when specified and applied correctly. Lime-based finishes are naturally breathable and allow moisture to pass through rather than trap it behind the wall.
Breathable finishes reduce the risk of trapped moisture, but no wall finish can compensate for ongoing water ingress, leaks, or persistently damp substrates. Surface condition and environment must be assessed before application.
Possibly. Existing coatings, moisture levels, and wall condition must be evaluated. In some cases, additional preparation or sealing is required to ensure compatibility.
Yes. Frequent temperature changes and prolonged air-conditioning can influence drying behaviour and visual appearance, particularly during the curing period.
We may recommend limiting air-conditioning during application and initial curing to allow the finish to set evenly. Specific guidance will be provided per project.
Once fully cured, mineral finishes perform well in air-conditioned spaces. However, extreme temperature cycling may accentuate natural tonal variation over time.
Some systems may require sealing depending on location, usage, and exposure. Sealers are specified only when necessary to balance protection and breathability.
Yes. Sealers may slightly deepen colour, reduce porosity, or alter sheen. This is considered part of the finish specification, not a defect.
In certain applications, an unsealed finish may be acceptable. However, omitting a recommended sealer may affect durability and maintenance expectations.
Sealers provide resistance, not complete waterproofing. Mineral finishes are not intended to replace waterproofing systems.
Environmental conditions such as humidity, temperature, and air-conditioning influence mineral finishes and are considered during specification.
Our systems are not suitable for clients expecting plastic-like uniformity, zero natural variation, or those looking for the cheapest possible quote regardless of environment. We specialize in high-performance, artisanal surface systems for informed clients.
No. Visual outcomes are locked in via approved samples. On-site "trial and error" during application is not permitted and will incur additional system costs.