Plastering a room can vary greatly in cost, depending on factors like size, type of plastering, and location. If you want to plaster a room in Australia, understanding the options and pricing can help you budget more effectively.
In this guide, we’ll break down the costs and considerations involved in plastering a room to help you make an informed decision.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Plastering a room in Australia typically costs between $800 and $2,500, depending on room size, plastering method, and finish quality.
Costs vary by plastering type: drywall is $20-$30 per square metre, wet plastering is $40-$70, and rendering is $30-$60.
Factors affecting price include room size, existing plaster condition, difficulty of access, desired finish, and location.
To reduce costs, get multiple quotes and hire a skilled professional. Quality plastering improves a room’s appearance, durability, and insulation, adding value to your home.
Cost Estimates For Plastering
Here is a summary of the typical costs for different types of plastering in Australia:
- Dry Plastering (Drywall): $20 – $30 per square metre
- Wet Plastering: $40 – $70 per square metre
- Skim Plastering: Lower end of the price range
- Rendering: $30 – $60 per square metre
For an average-sized room (3.6 m x 3.6 m), expect to pay between $800 and $2500, depending on the type of plastering and finish.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Plastering
1. Type Of Plastering
The type of plastering you choose significantly impacts the overall cost. Here’s a breakdown of the most common plastering methods:
- Dry Plastering (Drywall): Uses prefabricated plasterboard panels that are quick to install and less costly, generally priced between $20 and $30 per square metre.
- Wet Plastering: This traditional method involves applying wet plaster to walls. It offers a high-quality finish but is more labour-intensive, ranging from $40 to $70 per square metre.
- Skim plastering is quicker and more affordable than wet plastering for adding a smooth finish to existing surfaces.
- Rendering: Often used on exterior walls, rendering involves a sand-cement mixture. This method adds durability and weather resistance, costing around $30 to $60 per square metre.
2. Room Size
The size of the room is a major factor in the cost of plastering. Larger rooms require more materials and labour, leading to higher costs. For example:
- Standard Room (3.6 m x 3.6 m): Expect to pay between $800 and $2500 for a room of this size with a ceiling height of 2.4 m.
This range includes materials, labour, and clean-up.
The complexity of the room’s design, such as corners or high ceilings, can also increase the cost as they require more precision and time to plaster.
3. Condition Of Existing Plaster
The state of your walls will influence the preparation needed before plastering. Additional work might be necessary if the walls have cracks, uneven surfaces, or existing damage.
- Repair Work: Fixing damaged plaster can increase the cost, as it takes more time and materials to prepare the surface adequately.
- Starting Fresh: In some cases, removing the old plaster and starting fresh can be more efficient and cost-effective than patching and repairing.
4. Difficulty Of Access
The accessibility of the room also plays a role in the plastering cost. For example:
- Hard-to-Reach Areas: Plastering a room with high ceilings or restricted access may require specialised equipment, increasing time and costs.
- Easy Access Areas: If the room is easily accessible, plasterers can work faster and more efficiently, resulting in lower labour charges.
5. Desired Finish
The type of finish you want also affects the overall price. Simple finishes, like a basic skim coat, are more affordable than decorative finishes.
- Basic Finish: A standard finish might include a smooth surface ready for painting, which is the most cost-effective.
- High-End Finishes: Techniques like Venetian plaster or polished plaster, which require a more detailed application, can increase the price significantly due to the higher skill level needed.
Additional Factors Influencing The Cost
Location Of The Property
Location can affect the cost of plastering due to differences in local market rates. Metropolitan areas often have higher prices than regional areas because of the higher demand and cost of living.
Time And Project Duration
The duration of the plastering job also determines the cost. Longer projects might lead to increased labour charges and potential disruption to your daily routine.
Getting a time estimate from the plasterer is beneficial to understand how long the job will take.
Plasterer’s Expertise
The plasterer’s skill level and experience can impact the overall cost. While professionals with more experience may charge higher rates, they often deliver higher-quality work, ensuring a smooth and durable finish.
Tips For Reducing Plastering Costs
- Get Multiple Quotes: Contact at least three plasterers for estimates. Comparing quotes helps you find the best value for your money.
- Hire a Skilled Professional: While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest option, choosing a skilled professional ensures a quality finish, reducing the need for future repairs.
- Clear the Space: Preparing the room by moving furniture and covering floors can reduce labour costs.
Common Types Of Plastering Explained
Wet Plastering
Wet plastering involves applying a wet plaster mix directly to the wall or ceiling.
It provides a smooth, durable finish and is often used in residential and commercial projects. While it offers superior quality, the proper application requires a skilled tradesperson.
Dry Plastering (Drywall Installation)
Dry plastering, commonly known as drywall, uses prefabricated plasterboard sheets fitted onto a frame.
This method is faster, more cost-effective, and ideal for new constructions or renovations. It works well on flat surfaces but requires additional work for uneven walls.
Skim Plastering
Skim plastering involves applying a thin layer of plaster over an existing surface. It’s mainly used to refresh walls or ceilings, providing a smooth surface for painting or wallpapering.
Skim plastering is a practical option for minor repairs and is less costly than full plastering jobs.
Rendering
Rendering is typically used on exterior walls to protect against weather damage. It involves applying a mix of sand, cement, and sometimes additives.
Various rendering techniques are available, including traditional, lime, acrylic, and polymer renders, each suited for different applications.
Why Plaster Your Room?
Plastering enhances the aesthetics and functionality of a room. Here are some benefits of plastering:
- Smooth Surface: Ideal for creating a base for painting or wallpaper.
- Durability: Properly plastered walls have a longer lifespan.
- Insulation: Plaster can add a layer of insulation, making rooms more energy-efficient.
- Value Addition: A well-plastered room increases the value of your home if you plan to sell.
Conclusion
Plastering a room in Australia can cost $800 to $2500, depending on factors like room size, plastering method, and finish quality.
Choosing the right plastering method—wet plastering, drywall, or rendering—depends on your needs, budget, and the room’s requirements.
Obtaining multiple quotes from qualified professionals is the best way to estimate costs accurately.
Investing in high-quality plastering enhances the appearance of your space and increases its durability and energy efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plastering
Which type of plastering is best?
Exterior walls are best plastered with cement plaster due to its resistance to moisture, which helps to shield the wall from the effects of climate change and pollution. In addition, cement plaster’s durability makes it a great option for both exterior and interior applications.
How many layers of plaster should be used?
In order to achieve a professional-looking sheen, you’ll need to apply at least two coats. After the second coat has dried, check for obvious grooves and indents; if there are any, trowel on a third.
What are the defects in plastering?
Plastering work often has issues like blistering, cracking, efflorescence, flaking, peeling, popping, softness, and uneven surfaces. As soon as these plastering flaws are spotted, they must be fixed.
What is the ideal temperature for plastering?
Ventilation, temperature, and humidity levels must all be taken into account to guarantee productive work environments. Plaster should be applied in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit) and relative humidities that correspond to normal drying conditions.
How can plastering defects be prevented?
Preventative measures include selecting appropriate materials and following standard construction procedures, as well as proper preparation and cleaning of the wall surface. Plasterwork is less likely to delaminate when the wall surface is clean and properly prepared for the application of the plaster.
