If you’re planning to take on a plastering project, there are some common mistakes that you’ll want to avoid. Plastering is a delicate process, and even a small mistake can ruin the entire project. 

Here are eleven of the most common plastering blunders to avoid:

1. Not Prepping The Surface Properly.

If you don’t take the time to sand and prime the surface before you start plastering, your finish will never look as smooth as it could.

One of the most common mistakes people make when plastering is not properly preparing the surface. The plaster will not adhere properly to a dirty or uneven surface, so you must take the time to clean and sand the area before you begin.

2. Not Mixing The Plaster Properly

Another common mistake is not mixing the plaster properly. Plaster must be mixed with water in the correct ratio to achieve the right consistency. If it’s too thick, it will be difficult to apply evenly. If it’s too thin, it won’t adhere properly to the surface.

3. Applying Too Much Pressure.

When you’re plastering, you need to use just the right amount of pressure. Too much pressure will result in an uneven finish, while not enough pressure will make it difficult to get good coverage.

4. Not Using The Right Tools.

If you’re not using the proper tools, your plastering job will never look professional. Make sure you have a good trowel, hawk, and bucket before you start.

5. Skipping The Corners.

When you’re plastering, it’s important to pay attention to the corners. These are often the hardest areas to get right, so take your time and don’t skip them.

6. Applying The Plaster Too Thick Or Thin.

If you apply the plaster too thick, it will take forever to dry and could crack. If you apply it too thin, it won’t cover properly. It’s important to find the right balance.

7. Not Letting The Plaster Dry Completely.

If you try to paint or wallpaper over wet plaster, it will never adhere correctly. Make sure you give the plaster plenty of time to dry before you move on to the next step.  The plaster needs to be completely dry before you can apply the next layer, otherwise, it will not adhere properly and could cause cracking.

8. Applying Too Many Layers Of Plaster.

Another common mistake is applying too many layers of plaster. Plaster should be applied in thin, even layers. Applying too many layers will result in an uneven surface and could cause cracking.

9. Not Sanding Properly.

After the plaster has dried, you need to sand it down to create a smooth surface. If you don’t do this properly, your paint or wallpaper will never look good.

Plaster should be sanded between each layer to create a smooth, even surface. Not sanding between layers will result in an uneven surface and could cause cracking.

10. Applying Paint Too Soon.

Another common mistake is applying paint too soon after the plaster has been applied. The plaster needs to be completely dry before you can apply paint, otherwise, the paint will not adhere properly and could cause peeling.

11. Not Using Enough Joint Compound.

If you don’t use enough joint compound, the plaster won’t adhere properly and will eventually start to peel away. Make sure you apply a generous amount of joint compound to all the joints and seams before you start plastering.

Avoiding these eleven common mistakes will help you achieve a professional-looking plastering job. Take your time and be careful, and you’ll be able to avoid any disasters.

Happy plastering!

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