KNAUF KATI S „BARANEK”

Knauf KATI S Baranek – silicate textured plaster for façades

Are you looking for a façade that is not only beautiful but also completely safe for the building — free from algae, mould and damp problems for many years to come? Knauf KATI S Baranek is a silicate textured plaster with a „lamb” finish, which, thanks to its naturally high pH, acts as an active biological barrier. This product is designed for developers and contractors who expect more from a façade than just its appearance — they expect durability, safety and peace of mind for decades to come.

What is Knauf KATI S Baranek and what makes it stand out?

Knauf KATI S Baranek is a carefully formulated mixture of an acrylic water-based dispersion, potassium water glass, marble aggregates and mineral fillers. Silicate plaster differs from silicone plaster primarily in its characteristics, which are similar to those of mineral plaster — it is more „breathable” and acts more naturally. Its high vapour permeability allows walls to freely release water vapour to the outside, which is particularly important in buildings with external insulation.

A key advantage of silicate plasters is their naturally high pH, which effectively inhibits the growth of algae and fungi on the façade — without the need for additional biocides. Furthermore, Knauf KATI S Baranek is non-combustible, which is of significant importance when selecting materials for external thermal insulation systems using both polystyrene and mineral wool. Available in 1.5 mm and 2 mm grain sizes, it creates a distinctive, delicate ‘sheep’s wool’ texture — a classic finish that has stood the test of time on thousands of façades across Poland and Europe.

Where is Knauf KATI S Baranek plaster best suited?

Knauf KATI S Baranek is intended exclusively for external use — as a facade render in ETICS thermal insulation systems. It is suitable for a wide range of substrates and various types of projects:

• facades of residential buildings — single-family and multi-family homes, both newly built and refurbished,
• wood-framed buildings — in the Knauf Thermo Wood and Knauf Thermo W Wood systems,
• renovations and thermal insulation — wherever existing insulation requires improved thermal performance, in the Knauf Thermo Duo and Knauf Thermo Duo W systems,
• walls and ceilings of garages and unheated rooms — in the Knauf Thermo W Garage system,
• concrete substrates and cement-lime plasters — as a finishing coat in ETICS systems.

Knauf KATI S Baranek – properties that protect the façade

Knauf KATI S Baranek silicate plaster is a product that combines the natural properties of mineral chemistry with modern technology:

• Natural resistance to microorganisms — a high pH effectively inhibits the growth of algae and fungi without the need for additional biocides,
• High vapour permeability — the walls breathe, and moisture is drawn out,
• Water resistance — rainwater does not penetrate the plaster,
• Flame resistance — safe for use on both polystyrene and mineral wool insulation,
• Long-lasting colours — pigments that remain UV-resistant for many years,
• Good grip — a secure connection to the substrate without the risk of delamination,
• Long open time during processing — a comfortable working environment for plastering teams,
• Ready to use — without the need to prepare the mix on site.

Colour range and available grain sizes

Knauf KATI S Baranek is available in all colours from the Knauf Classic ’04 colour chart, in two grain sizes: 1.5 mm and 2 mm. The product is supplied in 25 kg buckets, in white or in a tintable version (base A). The wide colour range of the Knauf Classic ’04 colour chart allows the façade colour to be matched to any architectural design and the building’s surroundings.

If, after application, the colour needs to be evened out, it is possible to paint the surface with Knauf Silicone Levelling Paint — but not until at least 7 days after the plaster has been applied. White plasters painted in the final colour require at least two coats of paint.

How do you prepare the substrate and apply Knauf KATI S Baranek plaster?

The substrate must be load-bearing, compact, dry, sound and clean — free from dust, oil, bitumen and other substances that impair adhesion. Layers reinforced with fibreglass mesh (after a minimum of 3 days), as well as concrete and cement-lime plasters-lime plasters (after a minimum of 28 days, moisture content ≤ 4%) must be primed with Knauf Putzgrund in a colour matching that of the plaster.

Stir the contents of the bucket thoroughly before use, paying particular attention to ensuring the batch numbers match — this guarantees a uniform colour across the entire façade. If necessary, the consistency can be gently adjusted with clean water, adding a maximum of 1%. The plaster is applied with a stainless steel trowel to the thickness of the grain, and the „lambskin” texture is formed using a plastic trowel. Work should be carried out at temperatures between +5°C and +25°C, in dry conditions, avoiding surfaces exposed to strong sunlight and strong winds. Protect the fresh render from rain and excessive drying for at least 24 hours; in conditions of high humidity and low temperatures, this period may extend to 3 days. It is recommended to use protective covers on the scaffolding.

Why choose Knauf KATI S Baranek?

Knauf KATI S Baranek is the choice for those who value natural, tried-and-tested solutions based on mineral silicate technology.  A façade finished with Knauf KATI S Baranek silicate plaster is not just about aesthetics — it provides active protection for the building against damp, biological contamination and changing weather conditions, and remains effective for decades without the need for renovation.