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 applying plaster smoothing wall with trowel

Plaster Over Blueboard: When Veneer Plaster Beats Joint Compound for Smooth Walls

Introduction Plaster over blueboard means applying a veneer plaster finish bonded to the paper-faced gypsum board rather than feathering multiple coats of joint compound; it’s a different material and technique used when a harder, smoother surface is wanted. Veneer plaster generally requires cleaner, keyed surfaces and different tools than joint compound, so check product instructions […]

Plaster Over Blueboard: When Veneer Plaster Beats Joint Compound for Smooth Walls Read More »

Wooden lath exposed through broken plaster wall

Plaster Key Failure on Wood Lath: Diagnosing, Re-Keying, and When to Add Mesh

Introduction Plaster key failure on wood lath happens when the plaster pulls away from or loses grip on the lath, leaving loose or hollow areas that will crack or fall out. This write-up shows practical ways to diagnose where keys failed, how to re-key small patches, and when adding mesh or repairing lath is the

Plaster Key Failure on Wood Lath: Diagnosing, Re-Keying, and When to Add Mesh Read More »

Worker smoothing plaster on wall with trowel

Gauging Plaster for Lime Work: Ratios, Set Control, and When to Skip It

Introduction Gauging plaster for lime work means mixing lime, sand, and any additives in the right proportions to control strength and set time so the plaster behaves predictably. Think of it like tuning a recipe: adjust the lime-to-sand ratio and set retarders or accelerators to match your wall, weather, and skill level; check product labels

Gauging Plaster for Lime Work: Ratios, Set Control, and When to Skip It Read More »