Plastering is a technical job that requires a lot of skill and experience to do correctly. Many things can go wrong when plastering, and even the most minor mistake can ruin an entire project.
Here are the top 10 mistakes made by beginning plasterers, and how to avoid them:
1. Not Using The Right Tools:
Plastering requires specific tools to be done correctly. Using the wrong tools can make the job much harder, and can even lead to damage to the surfaces you are working on. Make sure you have the right tools before starting any plastering project.
2. Not Preparing The Surface Properly:
One of the most important steps in plastering is preparing the surface properly. If you do not prepare the surface correctly, the plaster will not adhere properly and will eventually start to crack and flake off. Make sure you sand the surface smooth, clean it of all debris, and apply a primer before beginning to plaster.
3. Applying Too Much Pressure:
When applying plaster to a surface, it is important to use even pressure. Applying too much pressure can cause the plaster to crack and flake off, ruining your work. Apply the plaster in even strokes, using light pressure.
4. Not Letting The Plaster Dry Completely:
The plaster needs time to dry completely before you can paint or wallpaper over it. If you try to do either of these things before the plaster is fully dry, you will damage the plaster and will have to start over. Let the plaster dry completely before moving on to the next step.
5. Applying Too Much Paint Or Wallpaper:
Just like with pressure, it is important to apply paint or wallpaper in even coats. Applying too much of either one can cause the plaster to crack and flake off, ruining your work. Apply paint or wallpaper in thin, even coats, and let each coat dry completely before adding another.
6. Not Using Enough Joint Compound:
A joint compound is used to smooth out imperfections in the plaster surface. If you do not use enough joint compound, the imperfections will show through, and your work will look sloppy. Use a generous amount of joint compound, and spread it evenly over the surface.
7. Applying Joint Compound Too Thick:
While it is important to use enough joint compound, you also do not want to apply it too thick. You are applying a joint compound that is too thick can cause it to crack and flake off, just like with paint or wallpaper. Apply joint compound in thin, even coats, and let each coat dry completely before adding another.
8. Not Sanding Properly:
Once the joint compound is dry, you will need to sand the surface to smooth out any imperfections. If you do not sand properly, the spots will show through, and your work will look sloppy. Use fine-grit sandpaper, and sand the surface in a circular motion.
9. Applying Paint Or Wallpaper Before The Joint Compound Is Completely Dry:
Just like with plaster, paint or wallpaper should not be applied until the joint compound is completely dry. If you apply paint or wallpaper before the joint compound is dry, you risk damaging the surface and having to start over. Let the joint compound dry completely before moving on to the next step.
10. Not Cleaning Up Your Work Area:
Plastering can be a messy job, and if you do not clean up your work area properly, the plaster can harden and become difficult to remove. Make sure you clean up your work area after each session and dispose of any unused plaster properly.
If you follow these tips, you will be well on your way to becoming a successful plasterer. Just remember to take your time, use the right tools, and prepare the surface properly before beginning any plastering project.
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