Introduction
As a homeowner or DIY enthusiast, learning how to plaster a wall with cement can be a valuable skill to have.
Cement plastering is used to achieve a smooth and durable finish on interior and exterior walls.
In this step-by-step guide, I will walk you through the process of plastering a wall with cement, from understanding the benefits of using cement plaster to the final curing and finishing touches.
There are multiple types of cement plasters and renders for outside use. This guide is meant for the cement renders you mix from the bag and spread with a trowel.
I’d also like to remind you that rendering with cement for plastering is a skill, and applying it to inside plastering is one, too; you might need to practice with a small area first.
How is cement plaster different from regular plaster?
Some of you may wonder if I’m mixing terms here, but there is such a thing as cement plaster.
We usually call it render, as it’s more often used on the exterior of our houses.
Nothing stops you from using it on the inside, though, as the surface can be smooth and has its texture in the hands of skillful craftsmen.
Cement Plaster vs. Regular Plaster
Cement and regular plaster are used for different purposes and have distinct characteristics.
Cement Plaster:
- Composition: Cement plaster combines cement, sand, and water. It is known for its durability and strength.
- Application: It is commonly used for exterior walls, as it provides better protection against weather and environmental factors.
- Strength: Cement plaster is more vital than regular plaster and is better suited for areas that require a more robust and durable finish.
- Water Resistance: It offers better resistance to water, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
Regular Plaster:
- Composition: Regular plaster typically consists of gypsum, lime, or a combination of both, along with water. It is softer and less durable compared to cement plaster.
- Application: Regular plaster is commonly used for interior walls and ceilings, providing a smooth and decorative finish.
- Ease of Application: It is easier to work with and can be applied more thinly than cement plaster.
- Finish: Regular plaster offers a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing finish, making it suitable for interior spaces.
Cement plaster is ideal for exterior applications due to its strength and durability. However, regular plaster is more commonly used for interior decorative finishes due to its ease of application and smooth finish.
Understanding the benefits of using cement plaster for wall finishing
Cement plaster offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice for wall finishing. We can look at it from a purely technical point of view, but also from design.
Technical Benefits:
- Strength and Durability:
- Cement plaster provides a sturdy and long-lasting finish, ensuring the structural integrity of the walls over time.
- Moisture Resistance:
- It offers superior moisture resistance, making it suitable for damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Crack Resistance:
- Cement plaster exhibits better crack resistance, reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance.
- Fire Resistance:
- It provides improved fire resistance, enhancing the safety of the interior spaces.
- Sound Insulation:
- Cement plaster can contribute to sound insulation, reducing room noise transmission.
- Thermal Insulation:
- It offers better thermal insulation properties, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Design Benefits:
- Versatility:
- Cement plaster serves as a versatile base for various decorative finishes, including paint, wallpaper, and texture coatings, allowing for diverse design options.
- Texture and Finish Options:
- It allows various textures and finishes, creating unique and visually appealing interior spaces.
- Seamless Finish:
- Cement plaster can create a seamless finish, providing a sleek and modern look to interior walls.
- Customization:
- It allows for customization through the incorporation of pigments or additives to achieve specific aesthetic effects.
- Low Maintenance:
- Once applied, cement plaster requires minimal maintenance, contributing to cost savings and ease of upkeep.
In summary, from a technical standpoint, cement plaster offers strength, moisture resistance, and insulation properties. At the same time, from a design perspective, it provides versatility, customization options, and the potential for seamless and visually appealing finishes in interior spaces.
Tools and materials needed for plastering a wall with cement
When plastering a wall with a ready-mixed bag of cement plaster, you will need the following tools and materials:
Tools:
- Hawk and Trowel:
- These are essential for applying and smoothing the plaster onto the wall.
- Plastering Float:
- A plastering float helps in achieving a smooth and even finish on the plastered surface.
- Spirit Level:
- This is used to ensure that the plaster is applied evenly and maintains a consistent level across the wall.
- Mixing Equipment:
- This includes a mixing bucket or wheelbarrow and a mixing paddle or hoe for preparing the plaster mix.
- Protective Gear:
- Safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask are important for personal protection during plastering.
- Brushes and Brooms:
- These are used to clean the wall surface before plastering and apply water to the surface if necessary.
Materials:
- Ready Mix Bag of Cement Plaster:
- This is the primary material for plastering the wall. The specific product will depend on the brand and type of plaster mix chosen.
- Water:
- Clean water will be needed to mix with the cement plaster according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Primer (if required):
- Depending on the type of wall surface, a primer may be needed to ensure proper plaster adhesion.
- Plaster Sealer (if required):
- In some cases, a plaster sealer may be needed to prepare the wall surface before applying the plaster.
- Plastic Sheet or Tarp:
- This can be used to protect the floor and surrounding areas from plaster splatter and spills.
- Sponge and Bucket:
- These are useful for cleaning tools and minor plaster surface adjustments during the application process.
- Measuring Container:
- This is needed to measure the correct amount of water for mixing the plaster.
- Mixing Sticks:
- These are used to mix the plaster and water thoroughly to achieve the right consistency.
Remember to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and applying the ready mix bready-mixed plaster to ensure a successful plastering process.
Preparing the wall for cement plastering
Before applying cement plaster to a wall, it’s crucial to prepare the surface to ensure proper adhesion and a successful finish. The preparation process varies depending on the existing wall covering. Here are the steps for preparing different types of walls for cement plastering:
1. Painted Walls:
- Clean the Surface: Remove any dust, dirt, or grease from the painted surface using a mild detergent and water. Rinse thoroughly and allow the wall to dry completely.
- Scrape and Sand: Scrape off any loose or peeling paint, and then sand the entire surface to create a rough texture that promotes better plaster adhesion.
- Prime the Surface: Apply a suitable primer to improve the bond between the existing paint and the new plaster.
2. Wallpapered Walls:
- Remove the Wallpaper: Completely remove the existing wallpaper to expose the underlying wall surface.
- Clean and Repair: Clean the wall to remove adhesive residue and repair damaged areas. Ensure the surface is smooth and free of imperfections.
- Prime the Surface: Apply a primer to create a suitable base for the plaster, especially if the wall has been heavily treated with adhesive during the wallpapering process.
3. Brick Walls:
- Clean the Surface: Remove any loose mortar or debris from the brick surface using a wire brush or chisel. Clean the wall to eliminate dust and dirt.
- Repair Mortar Joints: Check for damaged or deteriorated mortar joints between the bricks and repair them as needed.
- Wet the Surface: Before plastering, dampen the brick surface with water to prevent rapid absorption of moisture from the plaster, ensuring better adhesion.
4. Concrete Walls:
- Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the concrete surface to remove dirt, dust, and any other contaminants.
- Repair Imperfections: Fill any cracks or holes in the concrete with an appropriate filler or mortar to create a smooth and even surface.
- Apply a Bonding Agent: To enhance adhesion, consider applying a bonding agent specifically designed for use with cement plaster onto the concrete surface.
In all cases, allowing the prepared surface to dry completely before applying the cement plaster is essential. Proper preparation ensures the plaster adheres securely to the wall, creating a durable and visually pleasing finish.
How to plaster a concrete wall and how to plaster a brick wall with cement plaster is pretty much the same. Just remember that brick wall has mortar joints so you will more than likely have to do one layer to fill those first.
Mixing the cement plaster
Mixing cement plaster requires careful attention to ensure a consistent and workable consistency. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to mix cement plaster:
Step 1: Gather the Materials and Equipment
- Collect the ready mix bag of cement plaster, clean water, a mixing bucket, a mixing paddle or hoe, and the necessary personal protective equipment.
Step 2: Measure the Water
- Measure the appropriate amount of clean water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a measuring container to ensure accuracy.
Step 3: Pour the Plaster Mix
- Pour the required amount of ready mix bag of cement plaster into the mixing bucket.
Step 4: Add Water and Mix
- Gradually add the measured water to the plaster mix, following the manufacturer’s recommended water-to-plaster ratio.
- Use a mixing paddle or hoe to thoroughly blend the water and plaster, ensuring there are no lumps and the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
Step 5: Rest the Mixture
- Allow the plaster mix to rest for 2-5 minutes. This resting period allows the plaster particles to fully prepare to absorb the water and achieve the desired consistency.
Step 6: Remix the Plaster
- After the resting period, remix the plaster mixture for an additional 2-5 minutes. Ensure that the mixture is well-blended and has a workable consistency.
Step 7: Check the Consistency
- Verify that the plaster mix has a smooth, lump-free consistency and is suitable for application. The plaster should be workable but not overly runny.
Step 8: Adjust if Necessary
- If the plaster mix is too thick, add small amounts of water and remix until the desired consistency is achieved. Conversely, if the mix is too thin, add small amounts of plaster and remix accordingly.
Following these steps and allowing for the resting periods as specified will help ensure that the cement plaster mix is thoroughly blended and at the wall surface is prepared correctly, clean, and free from optimal consistency for application. Always refer to the specific instructions provided by the plaster manufacturer for the best results.
Applying the first coat of cement plaster
Applying the first coat of cement plaster in an upward motion starting from the top requires careful technique to achieve an even and consistent finish. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
- Ensure the wall surface is adequately prepared, clean, and free from contaminants. If necessary, dampen the surface slightly before applying the plaster.
Step 2: Load the Hawk and Trowel
- Load a small amount of the mixed cement plaster onto the hawk and then transfer it onto the trowel.
Step 3: Start at the Top
- Begin at the top of the wall and hold the trowel at a slight angle to the wall surface.
Step 4: Apply the Plaster
- Using an upward motion, press the plaster onto the wall surface, allowing it to adhere and spread evenly as you move upward.
Step 5: Maintain Consistent Thickness
- Aim to maintain a consistent thickness of the plaster as you work your way down the wall. Keep the pressure on the trowel steady and even.
Step 6: Overlapping Strokes
- Slightly overlap each stroke as you move across the wall, ensuring the plaster is applied uniformly.
Step 7: Work in Sections
- Divide the wall into manageable sections to ensure that the plaster remains workable as you apply it.
Step 8: Smooth the Surface
- Once a section is covered, use the trowel to smooth the surface of the plaster, removing any excess and creating an even finish.
Step 9: Repeat the Process
- Continue applying the plaster in upward strokes, working from the top down, until the entire wall is covered with the first coat.
Step 10: Check for Uniformity
- As you work, periodically step back to check for uniform thickness and coverage, making adjustments as needed.
By following these steps and maintaining a consistent upward motion from the top down, you can ensure that the first coat of cement plaster is applied evenly and adheres well to the wall surface. Remember to work methodically and take your time to achieve the desired result.
Cement plaster drying time varies on thickness and moisture, but usually it’s doable on next morning as cement in the mix cures.
Interior cement plaster is no different, just remember that don’t try to hasten the process with hot air or anything like that, because if the water don’t react with cement it will weaken your wall surface and it might dust.
Next I’ll remind that cement plaster thickness shouldn’t go over what the manufacturer label says too much. When it cures it will crack a bit if it’s too thick.
Applying the second coat of cement plaster
Now it’s time for second cement plaster application and you do it horizontally to level the wall after using a stone to sand the high points of the first coat involves a specific process to achieve a smooth and level finish.
When you did the first coat imagine that your trowel did little waves as you don’t apply the same amount of pressure when you move upward like that.
When you do the next layer horizontally you fill those low points of the waves and the wall is more level.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Address High Points
- After the first coat has dried, use a stone or abrasive material to carefully sand down any high points or uneven areas on the surface. This is crucial to ensure a level base for the second coat.
Step 2: Prepare the Surface
- Once the high points have been leveled, ensure that the wall surface is clean, free from dust, and adequately prepared for the application of the second coat of plaster.
Step 3: Mix the Plaster
- Prepare the second batch of cement plaster according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring the mix has a smooth and workable consistency.
Step 4: Load the Hawk and Trowel
- Load a small amount of the mixed cement plaster onto the hawk and then transfer it onto the trowel.
Step 5: Start at One End
- Begin at one end of the wall and hold the trowel at a slight angle to the wall surface.
Step 6: Apply the Plaster
- Using a horizontal motion, press the plaster onto the wall surface, allowing it to adhere and spread evenly as you move across the wall.
Step 7: Maintain Consistent Thickness
- Aim to maintain the plaster’s consistent thickness as you work across the wall, ensuring that the plaster is applied uniformly.
Step 8: Overlapping Strokes
- Slightly overlap each stroke as you move along the wall, ensuring that the plaster is applied evenly.
Step 9: Smooth the Surface
- Once a section is covered, use the trowel to smooth the surface of the plaster, removing any excess and creating an even finish.
Step 10: Repeat the Process
- Continue applying the plaster in horizontal strokes, working from one end to the other, until the entire wall is covered with the second coat.
Step 11: Check for Levelness
- As you work, periodically step back to check for levelness and uniform coverage, making adjustments as needed.
By following these steps and applying the second coat of cement plaster horizontally after leveling the high points of the first coat, you can ensure that the wall is leveled and the plaster is applied evenly for a smooth and consistent finish. Please always work methodically and take your time to get the desired result.
Achieving a smooth and even finish with cement plaster
Achieving a smooth and even finish with cement plaster using a float requires attention to detail and proper technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve a professional result:
1. Select the Right Float:
- Choose a plastering float that is suitable for the type of plaster being used. A plastic or metal float can be used for traditional cement-based plasters, while a sponge float is suitable for finishing coats or textured finishes.
2. Apply the Base Coat Evenly:
- When applying the base coat of cement plaster, use a hawk and trowel to achieve an even and consistent thickness across the wall.
3. Allow Sufficient Drying Time:
- Ensure that the base coat has dried adequately before using the float. Working on damp plaster can cause the surface to become uneven.
4. Dampen the Surface:
- Lightly dampen the surface of the base coat before using the float. This helps to lubricate the surface and facilitates a smoother finish.
5. Use Circular Motions:
- When using the float, apply circular or figure-eight motions to work the plaster and achieve an even texture. This technique helps to level the surface and remove imperfections.
6. Apply Even Pressure:
- Maintain consistent and even pressure when using the float to avoid creating uneven spots on the surface.
7. Smooth Out Imperfections:
- Use the float to smooth out any imperfections or trowel marks left from the initial application of the plaster.
8. Keep the Float Clean:
- Regularly clean the float during use to prevent dried plaster from building up on the surface, which can affect the smoothness of the finish.
9. Check for Uniformity:
- Periodically step back to assess the surface for uniform texture and any remaining imperfections. Make adjustments as needed to achieve a consistent finish.
10. Final Troweling:
- After using the float, a final troweling can be done to refine the surface further and ensure a smooth and even finish.
By following these tips and working carefully with a float, you can achieve a smooth and even finish with cement plaster, creating a visually appealing and durable surface. Always take your time and pay attention to detail for the best results.
Curing and finishing the correct wall
After completing the plastering process, it’s crucial to allow the cement plaster to cure properly.
Curing refers to the process of drying and hardening the plaster. Depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment, it typically takes several days for the plaster labels.
Avoid touching or applying any pressure on the freshly plastered wall during the curing process.
Manufacturer label might instruct you to water the surface slightly. Water is essential for cement curing. If you apply too much water you will ruin the surface, slight moisture is enough.
Please keep the area well-ventilated to make sure it’s properly. Protecting the plaster from rain or excessive moisture is essential, as this can affect the curing process.
Once the plaster is fully cured, you can add finishing touches, such as painting or a decorative finish.
Consult with a professional or refer to specific product instructions for the best practices regarding finishing the cement-plastered wall.
Maintaining and repairing cement-plastered walls
Cement-plastered walls are known for their durability but may require occasional maintenance and repairs.
Regularly inspect your plastered walls for any cracks, chips, or signs of damage. Promptly address any issues to prevent further deterioration.
Use a suitable filler or patching compound to repair small cracks or chips. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the repair material and blend it seamlessly with the existing plaster.
For more significant repairs or damage, it’s best to consult with a professional plasterer.
Additionally, it’s essential to maintain the cleanliness of your cement-plastered walls.
Regularly dust the surface and remove any stains or dirt using a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the plaster finish.
Conclusion
Plastering a wall with cement is a skill that can enhance the aesthetics and durability of your home.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can achieve a professional-looking finish on your interior or exterior walls.
Gather all the necessary tools and materials, prepare the wall surface properly, and apply the cement plaster in two coats for the best results.
With proper curing and maintenance, your cement plastered walls will stand the test of time, providing a durable and visually appealing finish.
Plastering with cement is a rewarding process that allows you to transform your walls and create a beautiful living space.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your tools, and get ready to embark on your plastering journey!
