Tadelakt Plaster Services

Seamless, Waterproof Surfaces for Showers, Wet Rooms and Dry Space

Tadelakt transforms a bathroom into something timeless. No grout lines. No sharp edges. Just smooth, continuous surfaces that feel warm and sculptural. Water beads up and rolls gently away, the way it does on natural stone. This traditional Moroccan lime plaster has been used for centuries.

Today, it's become the premier choice for seamless, spa-like showers throughout the Hudson Valley. From modern renovations in Beacon to historic estate bathrooms in Millbrook, I bring the same meticulous preparation and handcrafted attention to every Tadelakt installation.

Home: About

What Is Tadelakt Plaster?

Tadelakt is a traditional Moroccan lime plaster known for being naturally waterproof and breathable. It originated in North Africa, where it was applied over stone foundations in hammams for centuries.

The name comes from an Arabic word meaning to rub or massage, referring to the polishing process that creates its smooth, stone-like finish. Unlike tile, which uses grout lines, Tadelakt forms a seamless surface that resists mold and mildew. It is applied in layers, burnished with a trowel, and sealed with olive oil soap to enhance water resistance.

The result is a warm, organic surface that feels solid, durable, and monolithic, as if carved from a single piece of stone rather than assembled from separate materials.

Four Benefits of Tadelakt

Seamless Waterproofing

Creates a completely seamless surface ideal for showers and wet rooms. No grout lines means nowhere for mold, mildew, or soap scum to take hold.

Breathable and Natural

Unlike some waterproof coatings that trap moisture, Tadelakt allows walls to breathe, helping regulate humidity and prevent dampness.

Timeless, Spa-Like Aesthetic

The smooth, stone-like appearance adds warmth and tranquility to any bathroom. Catches light differently than tile, creating depth and movement.

Eco-Friendly and VOC-Free

Made from natural lime with zero volatile organic compounds. An environmentally responsible choice for your home.

Home: Services

Common Applications

Showers and Wet Rooms

The ideal application for Tadelakt. A seamless shower enclosure creates a sculptural, spa-like feel that tile simply can't match.

Bathroom Walls

Beyond the shower, Tadelakt creates cohesive, elegant bathroom spaces, from vanity walls to water closet areas.

Feature Walls

Even outside wet areas, Tadelakt adds striking texture. Perfect for powder rooms or behind a freestanding tub.

Home: Testimonials

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

“Mike is a passionate artist. His decorative plastering is among the best I have seen, and as an interior designer, I have seen quite a bit. He is truly a perfectionist, concerned with the movement and finish of the plaster, and meticulous in its application. His goal is to create the best product he possibly can, and is a student as much as he is a master researching new products like sealants and new techniques. It was a wonder to watch him work. As a human being, he is a pleasure; kind and thoughtful, utterly trustworthy, honest. attentive, and listens to your thoughts and feelings on what you are looking for on the project. He will not be content until you, as a client, is happy. I can’t wait to work with him again on our next fireplace. We are so blessed to have been referred to him! Hire him, and you will understand why.”

-Nanci Grant & Randall Ment

Tadelakt Plaster Gallery

modern bathroom with textured Tadelakt plaster walls

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tadelakt truly waterproof enough for showers?

Yes, when it’s installed correctly. Tadelakt is waterproof because of the entire system underneath it, not just the plaster itself. Proper prep includes: -Cement board substrate -Sealed seams and corners -A full waterproofing membrane like RedGard or Schluter Kerdi -A mineral-friendly surface for lime adhesion Each step matters because cement board prevents swelling, waterproofing stops moisture intrusion, seam sealing prevents cracking, and mineral-friendly surfaces ensure proper bonding. A properly built Tadelakt shower can last 20–50+ years. In Morocco, original Tadelakt baths have lasted centuries. Tadelakt fails only when the substrate moves, waterproofing is poor, soap sealing is neglected, harsh cleaners are used, or the installer is inexperienced.

What's the difference between Tadelakt and Venetian plaster?

Both are lime-based, but they look and behave differently. Tadelakt: -Soft, smooth, rounded -Gentle sheen -Feels like polished river stone -Polished with a stone -Sealed with olive oil soap -Built for water exposure Venetian plaster: -More movement and variation -Matte or high-gloss -Gloss looks like polished marble -Burnished with a trowel -Not meant for constant water Choose Tadelakt for spa-like spaces, curved surfaces, and seamless monolithic walls. Choose Venetian plaster for movement, depth, matte or gloss options, and architectural finishes. Homeowners notice that Tadelakt looks calm and soft, while Venetian plaster looks lively and expressive.

Can Tadelakt be used in historic homes around Rhinebeck and Millbrook?

Yes, but the structure must be evaluated first. I look for: -Movement in the framing -Stability of the substrate -Moisture history -Lime compatibility -Old repairs or delamination I recommend against Tadelakt if the home has significant wall movement, unstable framing, ongoing moisture issues, or substrates that cannot be reinforced. Alternatives include Venetian plaster outside the shower, tile inside the shower, or lime plaster in non-wet areas. My European restoration training is directly relevant because I was trained to work on centuries-old lime systems.

How long does a Tadelakt shower installation take?

Most Tadelakt showers take 1–2 weeks. Phase 1 — Substrate and waterproofing (3–5 days): Cement board, seam taping, waterproofing membrane, curing time. Phase 2 — Tadelakt application (3–5 days): Base coat, compression, final coat, stone polishing. Phase 3 — Soap sealing and final polish (1–2 days): Multiple soap applications, compression, buffing. Tadelakt takes longer than tile because it is hand-crafted stone, shaped and polished by hand.

How do I clean and maintain Tadelakt?

-Use a soft cloth and mild soap. -Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, vinegar, and bleach. -Reapply olive oil soap once or twice a year. Heavy-use showers may need reapplication every 6–9 months. If maintenance is neglected, water spots may appear, the sheen may dull, and hydrophobicity may decrease. Tadelakt is highly repairable. It can be re-soaped, re-polished, patched, or fully resurfaced.

Does Tadelakt crack over time?

It can, but only when the substrate moves. Cracking happens due to structural movement, poor waterproofing, incorrect substrate, rushed installation, or inexperienced installers. Cracking is prevented by cement board, reinforced framing, proper waterproofing, correct lime mix, slow drying, multiple compression passes, and proper soap sealing. Most cracks can be stabilized, filled, re-polished, re-sealed, and blended seamlessly. A properly built Tadelakt shower rarely cracks.

Request a Tadelakt Estimate

Every project begins with a conversation. I'll review your space, discuss finish options, assess your home's structure, and provide a clear, detailed estimate.

Serving Rhinebeck, Beacon, Hudson, Millbrook, Woodstock, Columbia County, the Catskills, Hudson Valley, and beyond.