Plastering

Although it isn’t often that we need to either plaster or replaster a whole wall, sometimes because most new walls these days are built using plasterboard, plastering is important for repairs to targeted areas of exisiting walls. And if you live in an older house you will want to create any new walls with the same style as the original walls.

In most cases, especially when the jobs are small and involve patching up areas affected by damp or other damage, you can do all the plastering yourself.

If you are new to plastering it is wise to start out by doing small sections of your wall at a time. Divide the affected area into easier sections and work your way through them all one by one. The plaster needs to be applied with smooth, vertical strokes. It helps to keep the application smooth by working from the left to the right. The plaster needs to be applied in layers keeping each layer thin as possible. This will help keep the overall work smooth. Once the undercoat plasterwork is complete it should be left to dry and set. The time it needs to set will depend on the type of plaster you used so be sure to read the pack instructions carefully or ask your building supplier. Cement undercoats need to dry for 24 hours. Once your plastering is set, you can apply the next coat or finishing coat.

Finishing plaster needs to be applied in a thin layer only. A plastering trowel helps to keep the work extra smooth. The difference between the undercoat and your finishing layer is that the finishing layer needs to be done all in one go to avoid an uneven or messy finish. Don’t rush into painting and decorating, rather wait some weeks to see whether any extra work needs to be done.

Although plastering is simple, if you haven’t done it before it can seem rather difficult. You may prefer to call in a reputable plasterer or building contractor to do the job for you. A quick search for plasterers Leeds (replace ‘Leeds’ with your own city, town or village and you’ll find something a little more local).