Versatility of Clay-Based Plasters
Clay plaster — also known as earth or mud plaster — can be used as an alternative to conventional plasters, applied in one or more thick layers. It is also suitable for decorative surface finishes, using just a few millimetres of material.
Clay is an ideal finish for creating a sense of comfort and well-being, while significantly improving indoor air quality, especially when it comes to common issues such as humidity.
Clay plasters are currently standardised and recognised under the European norm DIN 18947 (AENOR), which ensures consistent quality and performance for professional construction applications.
CLAYTEC design plaster YOSIMA. Wall colour grey, ceilings white. embarro@work
Design with CLAYTEC Clay
Since architect Peter Zumthor used CLAYTEC’s YOSIMA clay finish to cover the entire interior of the Kolumba Museum, clay plasters have gained recognition as a design element in contemporary architecture.
YOSIMA catalogue … featuring a curated selection of 146 pre-mixed colour tones.
In terms of aesthetic quality, the most striking feature of clay plaster surfaces is their interaction with light. Whether natural or artificial, light is gently absorbed and reflected by the clay — unlike synthetic paints or artificial surfaces, where it often dissipates. The slightly matte and vibrant texture of warm, natural clay tones enhances the visual appeal of any interior. The subtle colour variations inherent in pure clay give surfaces a distinctly natural and authentic character.
Today, our high-quality standards make it possible to apply clay finishes even in high-traffic areas — such as shops, hotels, and restaurants — without compromising their natural properties and without the need for additives or fixatives. For those seeking authentic surfaces with an instant sense of well-being, YOSIMA is the perfect solution to achieve more with less.
The Impact of Clay Plaster on Indoor Air Quality — Natural and Proven
YOSIMA decorative clay plaster by CLAYTEC in white.
embarro@work
It’s no coincidence that clay plaster is increasingly used in sustainable construction and interior design. Its natural ability to regulate indoor humidity and neutralise odours makes a significant contribution to creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
Since 2013, clay plasters have been officially standardised in Europe under the DIN 18947 regulation, which sets strict quality criteria. This standard enables an objective comparison between products and gives clay plaster full recognition as a professional-grade building material.
The standard defines key technical requirements such as plasticity, fire performance, compressive strength, and abrasion resistance — essential parameters for the acceptance, application, and long-term performance of this natural and functional finish.
CLAYTEC multicolour plaster. embarro@work
Sustainability and innovation with CLAYTEC
The story of CLAYTEC began in 1978 in Germany, as one of the pioneers in the use of earth-based building materials. Since then, the brand has become synonymous with innovation, having developed key solutions such as clay boards and the YOSIMA coloured clay finishes, which are now widely recognised in interior design and eco-conscious construction.
The CLAYTEC product range addresses all requirements of modern earth building — from insulation to final surface finishes — offering natural, efficient, and aesthetically compelling solutions.
The following link provides an overview of CLAYTEC products: CLAYTEC overview
Here you will find a catalogue of all available CLAYTEC products: CLAYTEC products
CLAYTEC Technical Documentation
For more detailed information, below is a selection of the most relevant technical data sheets for CLAYTEC products, including specifications, applications, and handling guidelines.
- Clay base Plaster 0-2mm – Ideal as the first layer in clay plaster systems.
- Clay plaster application video – A practical and timeless classic by embarro@work.
- Mineral clay base plaster 20 – A straw-free base plaster, perfect for cleaner and more technical applications.
- Clay base plaster in 6 colours – Available in 6 natural tones for varied surface aesthetics.
- YOSIMA design plaster finish – Available in 146 YOSIMA colours + 6 special additives for customisation.
- Yosima finish maintenance – Practical guidelines for the cleaning and repair of YOSIMA clay finishes.
- Clayfix clay paint– Available in the full YOSIMA colour range (146 shades), ideal for harmonising new walls or refreshing existing surfaces.
- CLAYTEC clay boards 16+22mm – Heavy clay boards for use on walls and ceilings.
- CLAYTEC clay adhesive mortar – Special mortar for the installation of CLAYTEC clay boards.
- CLAYTEC Primers – Available in smooth, fine, and coarse textures to ensure optimal adhesion for plasters and paints.
- Casein Primer – A transparent, colourless fixative, ideal as a base coat for clay finishes.
For tailored advice and the best solution for your project, please contact us at: info@vimaplasnature.pt