When you are going to apply Plaster, it is important to prepare well and to have quality products and tools, so that you are satisfied with the end result.
What is Plaster?
Plaster, also known as spackling paste, is a compound used to smooth out irregularities and cavities in surfaces prior to painting, wallpapering or flooring, for example. Plaster is a collective name for different types of compounds with different properties, but all Plasters are used to fill irregularities on different surfaces.
Different types of Plaster
There are different types of Plasters with different properties, so it is important that you choose the right type of Plaster for the job. You can read more about the different types of Plaster in our category text here.
How is Plaster applied?
Preparation and the right tools are important for your Plastering work to be smooth and fine. You can read more about which tools you need in our category text here.
How should Plastering be carried out?
It is important to know that the approach to Plastering varies slightly depending on the surface and the type of Plaster you use.
But there are a few steps you should always follow before you start Plastering.
- Make sure that the surface is clean of dust and loose material.
- Make sure that nearby surfaces, furniture, or floors are covered to prevent spills, splashes, and damage.
- Apply the Plaster to the cavities. Apply a little Plaster at a time, and allow the Plaster to dry completely before applying the next layer.
- Use sandpaper to sand down the Plaster so there are no bumps, joints, or other uneven areas.
- Clean dust and other dirt from the surface.
- The surface is now filled and ready for the next step in your renovation.
Important things to consider when Plastering
Plastering is relatively easy and something you can do yourself. But in order for the result to be as satisfactory as possible, there are a few things that are important to consider during the course of the work.
- Keep in mind that Plaster is a perishable product and will dry out if you let it stand for too long. Therefore, once you have opened the container, it should be used within a few weeks.
- Smooth out the Plaster as much as possible as you apply it – this will save you time when sanding.
- When sanding, use sandpaper that does not have too large a grain size. This will produce the best sanding results.
- Always cover floors, furniture, and other surfaces in the vicinity to protect them from splashes.
- Protect yourself by wearing gloves, safety glasses and a dust mask when sanding the Plaster.
Frequently asked questions about plastering
Is it necessary to sand before Plastering?
It may be a good idea to sand down any unevenness around the area to be filled. However, if the surface is already flat, or only contains cavities, you don’t need to sand.
