Plastering a wall might seem daunting at first glance, but with the right guidance and patience, it’s a skill anyone can learn.
Learning how to plaster can be rewarding, whether you want to save money or take on a new challenge.
This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully plaster a wall, ensuring you achieve a professional-looking finish.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Plastering a wall may seem challenging, but anyone can achieve a professional finish with the right preparation and techniques. The process involves mixing plaster correctly, applying two coats, smoothing the surface, and polishing for a flawless look.
Essential tools include a hawk, trowel, PVA glue, and a spray bottle. Proper wall preparation is crucial, such as applying PVA glue for adhesion. While DIY plastering is rewarding, hiring a skilled plasterer is advisable for complex jobs or repairs.
A professional ensures quality work, preventing issues like uneven surfaces or cracks. With patience and practice, your walls will be smooth and ready for decorating.
What Is Plastering?
Plastering involves applying a smooth finish to walls and ceilings, creating a surface ready for painting or decorating. Plastering is done over a surface known as a substrate. Common substrates include brick, concrete, or plasterboard.
Ceilings And Partitions
In older homes, plaster is often applied over timber laths. A mesh (known as expanded metal lath) is used where extra reinforcement is required before plastering.
Modern methods use plasterboards fixed to walls or ceilings, followed by applying a layer of plaster to create a smooth surface.
Plasterboards
The plasterboard consists of a gypsum core sandwiched between two layers of paper. It comes in various thicknesses, usually 9mm to 12.5mm, and offers added benefits like insulation, vapour control, and fire resistance.
The plasterboard installation method often used today is dot-and-dab or drywall, in which plasterboard adheres to a wall using adhesive dabs, followed by plastering.
Finishing Coats
A finishing coat of plaster is applied to achieve a smooth surface, typically between 3mm and 5mm thick.
Gypsum plaster is commonly used for finishing, though lime or a mixture of lime, sand, and gypsum can also be applied.
Tools And Materials For Plastering
Before getting started, you’ll need a few essential tools and materials. Here’s a checklist:
- Masking tape
- Plastering tools (hawk, float, and trowel)
- Craftsman’s float
- Emulsion roller and tray
- PVA glue
- Buckets for mixing plaster
- Stirring rod
- Drop cloths to protect surfaces.
- Dust masks
- Mop, towels, and spray bottle for cleaning.
Preparation For Plastering
Thorough preparation is key to a successful plastering job. This will ensure the process runs smoothly and your workspace remains clean.
- Protect Surfaces:
Use drop cloths to cover your floors and furniture, especially if you have hardwood or laminate flooring. Secure the drop cloths with masking tape to prevent them from shifting during the work.
- Apply PVA Glue:
PVA glue acts as a bonding agent between the wall and the plaster. Mix one part PVA with four parts water and apply it evenly using an emulsion roller. The plaster should be applied when the PVA is tacky and dry.
Steps In Plastering A Wall
1. Mixing The Plaster
Learning how to mix plaster correctly is crucial. Before handling plaster, put on a dust mask.
Then, fill a bucket with water and slowly add the plaster powder, mixing with a rod until it reaches a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Always add plaster to water—not the other way around.
- Ensure the mixture is thick but still workable.
2. Applying The First Coat Of Plaster
Once the plaster is mixed, it’s time to apply the first coat. Use your trowel to scoop a portion of plaster onto your hawk.
Start at the lower left corner of the wall and work your way up in smooth, sweeping arcs. Stand upright while applying the plaster to keep your strokes consistent.
Tips For Applying The First Coat:
- Start with small amounts and spread evenly.
- Focus on covering the wall rather than achieving a smooth finish right away.
Allow the plaster to dry slightly before moving on to the next step.
3. Smoothing The First Coat
After about 20 minutes, the first coat will begin to firm up. You’ll notice small lumps or imperfections on the surface.
Use your trowel to gently smooth these out, paying particular attention to the corners.
4. Applying The Second Coat Of Plaster
The second coat of plaster should be thinner than the first. Add more water to dilute the plaster mixture slightly.
Apply this coat in the same way as the first, but aim for a 2mm thickness. This coat will give the wall a smooth finish.
5. Polishing The Plaster
Once the second coat is dry, you can begin polishing the surface. Lightly mist the wall with water using a spray bottle, and smooth the surface with your trowel.
Use a damp brush to ensure a flawless finish for stubborn areas around the edges.
Finding A Plasterer For Complex Jobs
Anyone with practice can plaster, but you may want to hire a professional for more complicated jobs, such as repairing older plasterwork. Here’s how to find the right plasterer for your needs.
What To Look For In A Professional Plasterer
A professional plasterer should have experience and be able to deliver high-quality results that meet your expectations. Look for the following qualities:
- Experience with Similar Jobs:
Choose a plasterer who has handled jobs similar to yours. Experience matters, whether it’s a minor repair or a large-scale renovation.
- Attention to Detail:
Before starting work, a good plasterer checks walls and ceilings for hidden damage. Old lime plaster, for example, can have hidden defects that may not be immediately visible.
- Customer Reviews:
Word of mouth and online reviews are excellent ways to assess a plasterer’s reliability. Look for feedback on the quality of their work and how well they cleaned up afterwards.
Avoiding Common Issues
Sometimes, inexperienced plasterers cut corners to save time or money. This can lead to poor-quality work that will deteriorate over time.
A professional plasterer will inspect the surface, apply each coat correctly, and ensure everything is done to a high standard.
Key Steps To Assess A Plasterer’s Work
- Inspect Samples of Their Work:
Ask for references from previous clients or to see samples of their past projects. This can help you judge the quality of their artistry.
- Discuss the Process:
A reliable plasterer will explain their steps and why they’re necessary. For example, they suggest using lime plaster for older homes because it’s more flexible and durable over time.
- Cleanliness and Organisation:
Plastering can be messy, so hiring a professional who protects your home from dust and debris is essential. A good plasterer will also clean up after the job is finished.
Conclusion
Plastering a wall is more complicated than it seems, but it requires the right preparation, materials, and techniques.
You can achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish by following these steps and practising your technique.
Hiring a professional plasterer can be a worthwhile investment if you decide that plastering is too challenging or if you’re working with delicate or older materials.
Look for someone with experience, positive reviews, and a thorough approach to ensure the job is done right.
With patience and attention to detail, whether you tackle the job yourself or hire a pro, your walls will look stunning and be ready for the next stage of your decorating project.
FAQs About Plastering
Are There Any Tips For Beginners Learning How To Plaster A Wall?
Practice on a small area first, watch tutorial videos and don’t rush the process. Take your time to ensure each layer is applied evenly and smoothly for the best results.
How Do I Achieve A Smooth Finish When Plastering A Wall?
To achieve a smooth finish, use a clean, damp sponge or trowel to gently smooth out any imperfections or ridges in the plaster before it sets.
How Long Does It Take For Plaster To Dry On A Wall?
Drying time varies depending on humidity and temperature, but plaster typically takes 24 to 48 hours to dry completely.
What Should I Do If I Encounter Air Bubbles Or Imperfections In The Plaster?
If air bubbles or imperfections appear, gently tap the surface with a trowel or use a damp sponge to blend them in before the plaster sets.
What Technique Should I Use To Apply Plaster To The Wall?
Start by applying a thin coat of plaster with a plastering float, working from the bottom to the top and using smooth, sweeping motions to create an even layer.
