It can be hard and messy work to plaster a wall. You need to pay attention to every detail in order to achieve a smooth finish. By completing the preparation work correctly, you can make your life easier.
What are go-to products for plastering walls?
Dust sheets
Dust sheets are available at your local DIY store, but you could use old bed sheets. They’re more durable and resilient than plastic sheets and can be washed before folding and storing for the next time. Reusing linens is more environmentally friendly and sustainable than purchasing new sheets, particularly disposable plastic ones.
Sponge
A sponge is needed to clean your wall. You can find a variety of options in your local DIY store.
Cleaning spray
Sugar soap is a favourite because it cuts through the grease and grime on walls that you may not even be aware of. It also reduces the adhesion between paint or plaster. It does contain chemicals, however, and baking soda diluted in water does the job just as well, but is better for the environment. White vinegar diluted is recommended if the wall is extremely greasy.
Masking tape
It is an essential tool in any plastering project. Use it to secure dust sheets on skirting boards and keep them clean. You can also use it to tape off certain areas like the architrave surrounding a doorway. Alternatively, leave it to the professionals. For a Plasterer Cheltenham, visit http://pureplasterers.co.uk
Plastering pan
You may choose different tools depending on your experience, hand size, and how you work. You can use a plastering pan and a taping knife. Alternatively, you can just work directly out of the plaster tub.
Skimming spatula
The skimming spatula is incredibly flexible and lightweight, making it very easy to use for anyone with small hands.
Roller
You can use a squeegee or roller to apply the skimming product if you’re just starting out. They will help you maintain a consistent thickness. They are not necessary and it is really a matter of personal choice. The roller and tray are also useful tools for applying the PVA mix for priming, as they save a lot of work compared to using a paintbrush.
Gloves
Wearing gloves is a must when handling plaster or applying skim coats for any project. You want to minimise skin contact as much as possible. Gloves protect your skin and make cleanup easier.
Eye Protection
When you start, you’ll probably encounter some plaster splashes that will fall on you.
Flexible filling knife
Use these to apply joint compound (filler) as part of the wall preparation prior to plastering.
Sander
A sander will help you speed up your final surface preparation if there are many fillings and repairs that need to be done before you skim.
