Plaster

Introduction Tackling Roman clay maintenance doesn’t have to be a time-consuming chore. With the right approach, you can complete spot repairs and re-sealing in under three hours. Let’s break down the process into manageable steps, ensuring you stay on schedule without compromising quality. For the full guide, see Roman Clay Maintenance: Spot Repair, Re-Seal, and […]

Introduction Sealing clay plaster without plasticizing it means using finishes that protect and repel moisture while keeping the plaster’s porous, vapor-permeable character — think wax, soap, and breathable sealers. In practice that means choosing products labeled as breathable and following the manufacturer’s instructions for coverage and recoat times; when in doubt, test a small area

Introduction Plaster is a harder-setting wall finish made from cement- or gypsum-based mixes, while joint compound is a softer, gypsum-based product meant for taping and small repairs. For DIYers that means plaster will hold up better in high-traffic areas and where impact resistance matters, and joint compound is easier to apply and feather for small

Introduction Plaster cracks that keep coming back are usually signs of ongoing movement—either structural, thermal, or moisture-related—rather than a one-off surface failure. In plain terms: fix the movement first, then choose a flexible joint compound or mesh to bridge how much movement you expect and follow the product label for prep and cure times. Check

Introduction Furring strips create a new, flat surface for hanging drywall over plaster. This method helps prevent hollow spots by giving you solid backing and a frame to fasten into. Check your local rules and manufacturer guidelines for spacing and fastener choices. Plan your layout, level the strips, and avoid compressing the plaster when you

Introduction Plaster crack monitoring is watching cracks to see if they move over time before deciding to patch. Mark the crack and check it again after a short period to see if the gap changed. Keep the marks simple and document any movement by noting the crack’s location and new markings, then compare to prior

Introduction This article explains how to make silicone molds for missing details on decorative plaster medallions. It keeps the process practical and DIY-friendly. You’ll need to assess the piece, gather safe materials, and follow manufacturer instructions for any mold-making products. You’ll outline the plan, measure rough symmetry, and prepare a clean work area. Work slowly,

Introduction Plaster over painted concrete block means applying plaster to a surface that has paint, using a bonding agent and surface keying to make the plaster stick. You’ll want a bonding agent that’s compatible with both the paint and the plaster mix you plan to use. Keying techniques involve scuffing or abrading the paint and

Introduction Mixing lime putty plaster is combining lime putty, sand, and water to create a workable plaster for traditional walls. This short guide focuses on safety, storage, and how to judge workability when you mix it at home. Always check manufacturer instructions and local rules for any exact ratios or requirements. Start with clean, dry

Introduction Extra plaster coats provide additional mass and seal to help reduce sound transmission when the first layer isn’t enough. A second coat can improve sound dampening by filling gaps and smoothing the surface. But it’s not a magic fix for loud environments or structural issues. Whether to add another coat depends on the room,