Plaster Installation
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30/07/25, 16:41
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Plaster Installation
Overview
Applies fresh backing and skim coats to create a smooth, durable wall or ceiling surface ready for decoration.
Skill level: 4 (advanced DIYer)
Typical duration: 6 – 8 hours hands‑on per average room
Safety First
Dust inhalation while mixing or sanding—wear FFP2 mask and goggles.
Caustic lime‑based plasters can burn skin—use nitrile gloves and long sleeves.
Over‑reach on ladders for ceilings—use a stable hop‑up or small tower.
Electrical hazards—isolate circuits before working around sockets or down‑lights.
Heavy mixing buckets—lift with bent knees and avoid twisting.
Tools & Materials
Item | Purpose |
Hawk & stainless‑steel trowel | Carry and spread plaster |
Corner/stop beads | Create crisp angles and edges |
Paddle mixer + drill | Achieve lump‑free plaster mix |
20 L buckets & clean water | Mixing and cleaning tools |
PVA or universal bonding agent | Prime dusty or high‑suction substrates |
Backing plaster (e.g., bonding/undercoat) | Level deep hollows |
Finish plaster (multi‑finish) | Smooth skim coat |
Spirit level & straightedge | Check flatness and bead alignment |
Snips & drywall screws | Fix beads to masonry or board |
Dust sheets & masking film | Protect floors and fixtures |
Step‑by‑Step
1. Prep the substrate
Why: Sound, dust‑free walls ensure the plaster keys and cures evenly.
2. Apply bonding agent
Roll or brush PVA (1 : 4 water) onto masonry; allow it to go tacky.
Why: Regulates suction and improves adhesion.
Pro‑tip: Tint the final coat of PVA with a little food colouring so you can see complete coverage (1).
3. Fix profile beads
Cut angle/stop beads to length, dab with undercoat plaster or pin with drywall screws; check plumb with a level.
Why: Forms sharp corners and consistent thickness.
4. Mix backing plaster
Add plaster to clean water, mix to a firm yoghurt consistency, rest two minutes, remix.
Why: Ensures workable pot‑life and consistent set.
5. Apply backing coat
Press on firmly from bead to bead, filling hollows to 2 mm shy of bead edge; rule off with straightedge.
Why: Establishes flat plane and provides key for skim.
Pro‑tip: Scratch horizontal lines into stiffening backing coat with a nail float to aid skim grip (2).
6. Skim with finish plaster
Two tight coats: spread first coat, flatten, then apply second while the first is still tacky; clean trowel between passes.
Why: Builds a dense, smooth surface fewer than 3 mm thick.
Pro‑tip: Lightly mist the surface with a plant sprayer as it firms—it re‑opens the plaster for a mirror‑like final close (3).
7. Final trowel & clean‑down
As plaster reaches “leather” stage, polish with a dampened trowel edge; wash tools immediately.
Why: Leaves a blemish‑free finish and prevents set plaster on tools.
Completion Checks
Surface flat under 1 m straightedge with no hollows >2 mm.
Sharp, true corners where beads were set.
Even sheen without drag lines or trowel marks.
Knuckle‑tap sounds solid; no hollow or drummy areas.
Pale pink, uniform colour once fully dry (24–48 h).
When to call a pro instead
If you face large ceilings, intricate curved or heritage lime work, persistent damp, or need a flawless finish in a showcase area, a qualified plasterer’s speed, stamina and polished technique will deliver a superior result and minimise costly re‑work.
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