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.

Worker smoothing plaster on a wall wearing safety gear

Venetian Plaster — Common Issues + How to Fix Them

Introduction Venetian plaster is a traditional decorative plaster that creates a smooth, marble-like finish. It’s applied in thin layers over a prepared substrate and polished to a low sheen. This article covers common problems and practical fixes you can try safely. Start by diagnosing the issue, then follow simple, hands-on steps: inspect moisture and substrate […]

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Empty room with white plastered walls and concrete floor

Simple Hack to Locate Studs in Plaster Walls — Tests + Fixes When It’s Off

Introduction Locating studs in plaster walls means finding the framing behind the plaster to secure anchors or fixtures reliably. It involves using practical tests to confirm where the vertical supports run. Mark your likely lines and verify with a second method before drilling. If a stud isn’t where you expect, re-check with another method and

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Worker applying joint compound to drywall ceiling seam

What Is Joint Compound, and How Do You Choose the Right One? — Basics + Pro Tips

Introduction Joint compound is a gypsum-based finishing material used to coat, fill, and smooth drywall joints. It’s spread over seams and screws, then sanded for a seamless finish. Choosing the right one depends on the job and your working conditions. Common types include all-purpose, lightweight, and paper tape joint compounds, each with its own feel

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Close-up of textured white plaster wall surface

Making Clean Holes in Lath and Plaster Walls – Causes, Tests & Fixes

Introduction Clean holes in lath and plaster walls are openings that let you access the cavity without cracking surrounding plaster. The causes are old plaster loose, damaged lath, or hidden wiring that weakens the surface. This guide covers how to diagnose and prepare holes for a proper fix. Start by testing for hollows with gentle

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Worker smoothing plaster on an interior wall with trowel

Drywall Vs Plaster Vs Blueboard: Choosing the Right Wall System for Renovations

Introduction Drywall, plaster, and blueboard are common interior wall systems you can choose for renovations. Drywall is the standard, fast-to-install option; plaster is older and durable when done right; blueboard is a base for a plaster finish. Each has its own prep and finish needs. To pick the right one, consider the room, finish you

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Man applying plaster to wall with trowel wearing black glove

How to Patch Deep Holes in Plaster Without Shrinkage (Layering Strategy)

Introduction Patching deep holes in plaster without shrinkage means building the fill in gradual layers so the patch stays level as it dries. Prepare the cavity, mix or choose a filler suitable for plaster, and apply in thin coats, letting each dry as you go. This layering approach helps bridge the depth and reduce cracking.

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Hand applying plaster to mesh-covered wall with putty knife

How to Repair a Bulging Plaster Wall (Flatten, Replace, or Re-Key?)

Introduction Bulging plaster walls are plaster that has pushed outward from the lath or studs. This article explains how to assess the damage, decide on a flatten, replace, or re-key approach, and stay practical on the job. You’ll learn how to inspect the condition, identify loose edges, and plan your repairs before you touch the

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