Plaster

Plaster is for cement-based and traditional plastering projects where a smooth or durable surface is the goal.

You’ll find guides on surface prep, bonding, scratch/brown/finish coats, patching, corner details, sanding and finishing, and how to avoid common issues like cracking, poor adhesion, and uneven texture.

If your project is “make this wall look right again,” this is the category to start with.

Hand shaping a ball of plaster close up

How to Rebuild Missing Plaster Keys: Methods That Don’t Require Full Demo

Introduction A plaster key restoration is rebuilding the shallow grip surfaces in a wall to allow new plaster to bond without tearing out the entire section. It’s done without full demolition and is aimed at DIY repair. This introduction sets up practical, hands-on steps you can follow at home. Start with a careful inspection of […]

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Wooden lath exposed behind damaged plaster wall

Repairing Plaster Where Lath Is Loose: Refastening vs Replacing and How to Decide

Introduction Repairing plaster where lath is loose means choosing between refastening the existing lath and replacing damaged lath. This article helps you decide which path fits your wall and how to do it safely. It keeps things practical and ready for a DIY project, not a textbook. To decide, start by locating loose lath and

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Man using cordless drill on white wall with woman watching

Using Plaster Washers Correctly: Screw Spacing and How to Avoid Dimpling

Introduction Plaster washers are flat rings that sit under a screw head to spread the load and reduce dimpling in plaster or drywall. They help keep the surface smooth while you fasten material to the wall. Always check the product label and local rules for recommended spacing and installation guidance. In this article we’ll cover

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Woman inspecting white painted plaster wall closely

Sealing Nicotine Stains on Plaster: Why Some Primers Fail and What Works

Introduction Sealing nicotine stains on plaster means using the right primer to lock in oils and prevent bleed-through. If the surface isn’t cleaned or the wrong primer is chosen, the stain can bleed through and darken again. This article stays practical, with hands-on steps you can follow. Start with thorough cleaning to remove surface grime

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Hand holding trowel smoothing white plaster on wall

Clay Plaster Dusting After Cure: Diagnosing Under-Compaction vs Too Much Water

Introduction Dusting after cure on clay plaster happens when a chalky top layer appears due to how you mixed and compacted the plaster. It can stem from under-compact or too much water in the mix, which pulls fines to the surface as the plaster dries. Check moisture content, aggregate fineness, and how the mixture was

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Person applying plaster over blue mesh on wall

Clay Plaster Over Plywood: Movement Joints and Mesh Choices That Reduce Cracking

Introduction Clay plaster over plywood is a breathable, clay-based wall finish bonded to a plywood base. If you’re DIYing, expect a more flexible layer that can absorb minor movement without cracking. Plan for movement joints and appropriate reinforcement to guide cracks where you want them. Placement of joints and the right mesh help the plaster

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Hand wiping a smooth light gray wall with a cloth

Venetian Plaster in Bathrooms: Soap Scum, Cleaning, and Where It’s a Bad Idea

Introduction Venetian plaster in bathrooms is a polished, lime-based finish that can show soap scum and water marks if not cleaned with care. This article gives practical, hands-on tips for keeping the surface clean without risking damage. It also covers when it’s not a good idea to use harsh cleaners on this finish. White vinegar

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Hands applying plaster on wall with trowel

Gypsum Plaster Over Lime Plaster: Compatibility, Primers, and Preventing Debonding

Introduction Gypsum plaster over lime plaster is the practice of applying gypsum-based plaster on top of lime-based plaster to create a smooth, finished surface. Compatibility comes down to surface prep, the right primer, and following each material’s instructions. Before you start, check that the lime is fully set and not actively chalking, and plan a

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Hand applying white plaster with metal putty knife

Lime Putty Storage and Aging: What ‘Mature’ Lime Changes in Workability and Strength

Introduction Aging lime putty changes its workability and strength with time. Store it in breathable containers and keep it from direct moisture and temperature swings. In practice, older lime can feel different to work with than fresh material; check the manufacturer’s storage guidance for specifics. What you notice in the mix tells you how mature

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Close-up of decorative plaster floral relief pattern

Sgraffito on Lime Plaster: Layering Colors, Cutting Timing, and Protecting the Artwork

Introduction Sgraffito on lime plaster is a decorative technique where you scrape away a colored top layer to reveal a contrasting color beneath. It relies on careful layering of lime plaster and pigment, followed by controlled cutting to create that contrast. Make sure you verify weather conditions, surface preparation, and product instructions before starting. Start

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