If you’re taking on the interior work in your new house or renovating your old one, you might need to plaster a wall. That is a detailed, time-consuming process that requires precision to avoid mistakes, which can be hard to conceal with paint or wallpaper.
Plastering a wall is one of the most challenging jobs for DIYers. However, if you are skilled enough, you can manage the task by yourself, using the right tools and techniques.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to plaster a wall using basic tools like а plaster scoop, trowels, and а spatula.
Source: elements.envato.com
What is plastering?
Wall plastering involves applying two coats of plaster to an existing wall or ceiling for a smooth finish. Some people prefer to use plasterboard sheets because they are faster and easier to install. Also, they are the perfect alternative to the classic wet plastering method.
A newly plastered wall covers imperfections in the underlying structure, whether it’s concrete, brick, or other materials. Besides its aesthetic appeal, plaster can protect your walls from moisture, pollutants, and even fire.
Plastering isn’t an easy task. It demands experienced hands and precision. Using improper materials or techniques can lead to plaster falling or cracking, which can be expensive and hard to fix.
What does plaster consist of?
The plaster mix is typically made from of sand, cement, lime, and cold water. These components are mixed on-site or bought as pre-mixed mixtures. The key to successful plastering is achieving the correct ratio of materials, which can vary based on factors such as humidity and weather conditions.
Opting for ready-made plaster may slightly increase the cost, but it guarantees consistency. Sometimes, sand may be replaced with marble dust and grey cement, and it can be used instead of white for specific finishes.
Is it difficult to plaster a wall?
As we mentioned earlier, plastering is one of the most challenging renovation tasks. That’s why we recommend using the plastering services of a professional whose skilled work can be completed in half the time it would take a beginner.
If you’re passionate about doing the job yourself, there are various methods, but the basics remain the same.
For beginners, plastering rails can simplify the job by helping you apply plaster evenly. However, rails may complicate the preparation process and increase costs. Additionally, you won’t be able to drill or nail in areas where rails have been used, so keep that in mind for future installations.
What do you need before you begin?
Start by measuring the room – the height and length of each wall, then multiply them to find the entire surface area. If the room is cuboid-shaped, measuring the width, length, and height will give you the right dimensions.
Most products will tell you how much area they cover. For example, a 30-kilogram bag of plaster mix is typically enough to cover about 2.5 square metres of wall at a 10 mm thickness.
Plastering rails should be installed vertically, spaced 40 to 60 centimetres apart across the entire wall, with a 20 to 40-centimetre gap at the corners. This setup ensures an even application and prevents the plaster from falling or creating uneven finishes.
Source: elements.envato.com
How to plaster a wall in 9 easy steps
Plastering interior walls can be done in nine easy steps. By following our guide, you’ll minimise the risk of not doing it right. However, before starting, it’s crucial to prepare the right tools for plastering.
You can’t begin without the following:
- Trowels
- Plasterboard (if you prefer it to plaster)
- Clean bucket
- Plaster scoop
- Spatula
- Spirit level
- A plaster mixer or a drill with a mixing attachment.
Wall plastering must only be done at temperatures between +5 °C and +35 °C. Too low a temperature can disrupt the structure, prevent plaster adhesion, and cause it to fall off over time. High temperatures can cause excessive drying of the fresh plaster, which could lead to cracking.
Before applying the first coat, ensure the wall is prepared by sealing it with PVA glue to bond the plaster properly.
Step 1: Prepare the wall
If the place is new, you’ll need less preparation than if you were in an old one. Remove loose plaster, old wallpaper, and paint. Cover the floor with protective sheeting to avoid damage or mess during the process. Painter’s fleece is perfect for this.
Source: elements.envato.com
Step 2: Repair wall imperfections
Before applying the first coat, ensure the wall is free from cracks or dents. Remove any remaining old plaster and repair holes to ensure the surface is smooth.
Step 3: Prime the wall (If needed)
Next, determine the wall’s absorbency by wetting a small area using a spray bottle:
- If water droplets remain, it’s non-absorbent.
- If water is absorbed slowly, it’s normal.
- If absorbed immediately, it’s highly absorbent.
Based on this, you may need a specific primer, like a PVA mixture or plaster base, depending on the material of your wall. Apply the appropriate primer to ensure the plaster adheres properly.
Step 4: Set up profiles
Plaster profiles and quick plastering strips help you apply the plaster evenly. These strips should be installed a day before you begin plastering. Place them vertically, about 40 to 60 centimetres apart. Corner profiles should also be set up to protect edges.
Use corner rail mortar to secure the strips and align them using a spirit level or straight edge.
Step 5: Mix the plaster
Mix your plaster mixture within a clean bucket, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Don’t forget to put on a dust mask before you open the bag. When plastering entire rooms, we recommend starting with the ceiling. This is because the excess plaster can fall from the trowel or ceiling onto the walls during application, requiring you to redo the surface.
Step 6: Apply the first coat
Load plaster onto your hawk board and apply a thin layer. Press the plaster onto the wall with a trowel without smoothing it straight away. Be careful not to exceed the maximum thickness indicated on the packaging when levelling. It’s important to use a thinner consistency. If it’s too thick, it may lose cohesion and it could start cracking, leading to the plaster falling.
On uneven surfaces, new plaster is applied by throwing it onto the wall with a plastering trowel or bucket trowel. This technique takes practice, but the plaster will fill cracks and grooves effectively.
Start applying plaster firmly upwards across the wall with fewer strokes. The first layer doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth – the second coat will take care of that. Use the profiles to gauge how much plaster you need and ensure the layer is even. Keep your trowel angled slightly for better control.
Once dry, sand down any rough spots with fine-grit sandpaper for smoother results. Press the plaster onto the plasterboard and smooth the surface lightly. After allowing it to dry, you can proceed with the second and final coat. If you’re working on a separate plasterboard or partition wall, the same steps apply to ensure you plastered the wall correctly.
Source: elements.envato.com
Step 7: Finishing touches
After the plaster has been applied, the surface can be smoothed or textured. Use a wet brush or sponge board to achieve a uniform texture. For a perfect finish, smooth the surface lightly by running a stainless steel trowel while the plaster is still damp. After that, let the plaster dry completely before sanding.
Step 8: Decorate
Once the fresh plaster is completely dry, you can begin decorating. That way you can hide the trowel marks. Consider using decorative plaster to add texture and elegance to your walls. Apply it with stainless steel trowels, layering it for a smooth, luxurious finish.
For more creative designs, use bubble wrap or a broom to add texture.
Step 9: Clean up
After completing the plastering job, it’s time to clean up. Remove plaster residue from all your tools immediately to avoid the material’s drying and becoming difficult to remove.
To clean the room, ensure proper ventilation and wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust. Take extra care around cracks and corners to remove the extra debris remaining. Sanding paper can help with rough edges and ensure a smooth finish around the room.
Source: elements.envato.com
Once you’ve gone through our step-by-step guide and learned how to plaster a wall, it’s time to get started. Just remember – you’ll need the right tools, high-quality materials, and plenty of patience.
If you’re struggling, our team at IVCG is here to assist you. Just call us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a lot of dust after plastering?
Yes, plastering generates dust. Clean the room thoroughly and ventilate it. Dust will settle over the next few days, so keep a damp cloth handy to wipe surfaces regularly.
How long does it take to plaster a room?
For professionals who have experience with good quality tools and materials, plastering a room typically takes a day, depending on the size. If you are a DIY enthusiast, it may take longer.
How do you plaster around light switches, curtain rails and radiators?
It’s best to remove radiators, curtain rails and light switches before plastering to ensure a smooth and clean finish.
