Posted on: April 17, 2022 Posted by: Hailey Zachary Comments: 0

In new homes, before finishing a room with paint or wallpaper, the plasterboard is covered with a thin, smooth coat of plaster; while this task is normally untaken by time-served professionals, it is something that, with some research, is possible for the budding amateur to complete with some success. It is, though, important to remember at the outset that the standard of your plastering will not compare with the finish obtained by a skilled tradesperson, adjust your expectations accordingly. We’ll investigate all the tools and equipment needed to plaster in your home and briefly touch on the process’s outline.

Initial Preparation

Plastering is messy work; make sure all furniture and other obstructions are removed or covered with protective sheeting. We’ll first look at the ancillary tools needed before looking at the specialised plastering tools. They are –

  • Snap off knife similar to a Stanley knife.
  • Spray bottle for keeping edges or plaster clean and wet.
  • Large clean mixing buckets.
  • Small dustpan brush.

As well as these items, make sure you are also protected with the proper PPE, googles, dusk masks, and protective gloves are a minimum requirement, along with a first aid kit for any unexpected incidents.

The Specialised Plastering Tools

To successfully plaster, several essential tools are needed, and good quality examples are recommended; hiring the tools is a possibility, with most good hire shops offering plastering equipment that could also include a specialised plaster mixing machine. The key tools crucial for plastering are –

  • The Plastering trowel is used to apply and finish the plaster; choose a well-weighted stainless-steel example that feels comfortable in your hand.
  • A Plasterers Hawk board is a tool for holding wet plaster; both wooden and plastic options are fine, but the wood ones last longer.
  • The Bucket trowel is a scoop-shaped device for moving wet plaster from the mixing buckets to the Hawk board.
  • Although you can mix plaster by hand, a Power mixer is advised, paddle attachments for power drill work, but the previously mentioned plastering machine works best.
  • A new clean, good quality paint is needed to keep trowel edges clean and plaster wet.

If you purchase new tools and don’t plan any further plastering, then a healthy second-hand tools market exists to claim some funds afterwards.

A Basic Outline of the Process

Interior plastering follows a straightforward step-by-step process: take care to follow the mixing instructions for your chosen plaster and the directions for applying the adhesive you are using. Plastering follows these steps –

  • Preparation of surfaces, removal of loose debris, and taping any plasterboard joints.
  • Application of PVA adhesive is used to stick the plaster to the wall.
  • Mixing the plaster using clean buckets and clean water.
  • The first layer of plaster is applied, scratched, and left to dry.
  • The topcoat is applied and, after a short wait, finished while still damp.

As I’ve mentioned, further investigation of the full process is required and easily available via the many online DIY guides.

I hope with this short article I’ve given you the confidence to give plastering a try; with a shortage of good available plasterers in the UK today, a new career might be just around the corner!