Kipsitasoitteella

Kipsitasoitteella is a Finnish construction term used to describe a plaster finishing technique in which a plaster layer is applied and carefully smoothed to create a flat, uniform surface. The term appears in technical specifications, interior finishing guides, and restoration project documents to indicate the chosen method for surface preparation.

Etymology: The word combines kipsi, meaning plaster, with tasoitteella, the instrumental case form of tasoitus, meaning leveling or smoothing.

Applications: The technique is most common for interior surfaces such as walls and ceilings, including historic masonry, brick, concrete, and timber-based substrates. It is used to prepare surfaces for paint, wallpaper, or decorative finishes, and in restoration projects to maintain historical character while achieving a modern flat finish.

Process and materials: Typical steps include substrate cleaning and stabilization, applying a base coat, smoothing with a trowel, and applying one or more finishing coats. Finish layers may be gypsum- or lime-based, and moisture control is often required to prevent cracking. Correct curing and feathering of edges are important to minimize visible transitions.

Variations and related terms: Depending on material and climate, kipsitasoitteella may refer to a base-and-finishing coat system or to a single skim coat. Related topics include plastering, finishing, and surface preparation.

See also: plastering, finishing, surface preparation.