One term – two meanings. In the construction and painting trades, the term "abrasion" appears in two contexts. Firstly, it describes the resistance of a surface to wear and tear and cleaning (e.g., in wall paints or facade plasters). Secondly, it refers to the grain size or structure of plaster, which is created by rubbing it off after application (e.g., "2 mm abrasion"). Both meanings are important – for the appearance, durability, and maintenance effort. So join us on this journey to the abrasion of various surfaces – both in terms of grain size and resistance!
Abrasion of different surfaces as resistance
In this case, abrasion describes a surface's resistance to mechanical stress—that is, how much it wears when wiped, scrubbed, or through everyday use. Abrasion resistance plays a crucial role, especially for interior wall paints or exterior facades. It determines how long surfaces remain attractive, how easy they are to maintain, and how often they need to be renovated.
Choosing the right surface quality will save you money and effort in the long run. Different materials and coatings are required depending on the space, use, and wear and tear.
Abrasion indoors: wall paints, their abrasion classes and plaster surfaces
Not every wall paint is equally durable. To provide a clear guide, wall paints are classified into wet abrasion classes according to DIN EN 13300. The wet abrasion class is a European standard that describes how resistant a wall paint is to cleaning, scrubbing, and exposure to water. It indicates how well a painted surface can be washed off without damaging the paint. The corresponding wet abrasion classes are as follows:
- Class 1: Very durable, even under heavy use. Ideal for hallways, stairwells, doctor's offices, or kindergartens.
- Class 2: Highly durable, easy to wash – perfect for kitchens, bathrooms or children's rooms.
- Class 3: Medium load capacity, suitable for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Class 4: Low durability – only for rooms with low traffic.
- Class 5: Very low durability – only for decorative surfaces that do not require cleaning.
The higher the class, the more resistant the surface is to cleaning and wear—an important factor for hygienic and durable interiors. Accordingly, abrasion resistance is also noticeable in plaster surfaces:
- Smooth plasters look elegant and modern, but are more susceptible to scratches and stains.
- Textured plasters are more robust, conceal minor damage and are easier to clean.
Robust plasters are particularly advantageous in heavily frequented rooms such as hallways or stairwells.
Abrasion in outdoor areas: facade plaster and natural surfaces
Facades are exposed to significant daily stresses: weather, UV radiation, rain, wind, and mechanical influences. Therefore, choosing the right plaster is crucial:
- mineral plasters (e.g., lime or cement plasters) impress with their durability, high resistance, and breathability. They are extremely abrasion-resistant, can regulate moisture, and contribute to a healthy living environment.
- Synthetic resin plasters are more elastic, less prone to cracking, and highly resistant to driving rain. However, they are less permeable to diffusion, which must be taken into account in some cases.
In addition to plaster, many other materials are also found on facades, the abrasion resistance of which varies:
- Exposed concrete is hard and durable, but requires protective coatings to protect it from dirt and weather abrasion.
- Natural Stone is durable, but is visibly attacked by acid rain and environmental influences over decades.
- Wooden facades appear lively and warm, but require regular care (glazes, oils, paints) to remain permanently abrasion-resistant and weather-resistant.
Why abrasion resistance is so important
Choosing the right abrasion class and the right surface offers many advantages. These include:
- Longer durability: Walls and facades need to be renovated less often.
- Ease of care: Washable and robust surfaces can be cleaned more quickly.
- Hygiene: Particularly advantageous in rooms subject to heavy use.
- Sustainability: Fewer renovation cycles mean less material consumption and lower costs.
Abrasion as plaster structure (grain size)
In addition to durability, "abrasion" is also used in the trade to describe the grain size and structure of plaster. During application, the plaster is "rubbed off" with a float, creating the visible surface. Typical grain sizes include:
- Fine abrasion (0.5 – 1 mm): Very smooth, elegant appearance, ideal for modern interiors. Somewhat more sensitive to mechanical stress.
- Medium abrasion (1.5 – 2 mm): Classic facade structure, universally applicable, good balance between appearance and robustness.
- Coarse abrasion (3–4 mm): Rustic effect, extremely durable, especially suitable for heavily used exterior facades.
The choice of grain not only influences the appearance, but also its maintenance and durability. Coarser textures are more robust, while finer ones appear more elegant but are more fragile.
You can learn more about different types of plaster and their grain sizes in our articles «Plastering work – Professional plastering work for smooth and durable interior walls" and "Plastering as a facade design - there are these possibilities».
Why both aspects are important
Whether we're talking about abrasion in the sense of resistance or abrasion as a plaster texture – in both cases, the aim is to optimally adapt the surface to its use. For example, high wet abrasion classes are important indoors, especially in heavily used areas such as kitchens, hallways, or children's rooms, as they enable easy cleaning and high resistance. Those who value an elegant appearance also opt for finer plaster, which creates a smooth and sophisticated surface. On the exterior facade, on the other hand, robust plaster types with the right grain size are particularly important in order to protect the facade permanently and simultaneously achieve the desired appearance. The following applies: While the grain size primarily determines the appearance, the abrasion class determines the ease of care and durability of the surface.
Abrasion of different surfaces – How to make the right choice
"Abrasion" is a versatile term in the construction industry. On the one hand, it refers to the resistance of paints and plasters, and on the other, to the structure and grain of plaster surfaces. Both aspects significantly influence the durability, ease of maintenance, and appearance of walls and facades. To choose the right abrasion resistance for various surfaces in your home, you first need to clarify whether you are talking about grain size or resistance. The location and how frequently the area is used will then provide information on selecting a grain size or abrasion class.
We at MVM AG are also happy to assist you in selecting the right materials and the abrasion resistance of various surfaces. From abrasion-resistant wall paints to durable facade plasters, we develop customized solutions for your project. Contact us now and let us advise you!