Tag: Plasterer

Categories
Walls & flooring

How to fix a hole in the wall

How long does it take to fix a hole in plaster?

When there’s a hole in the plaster in the wall, it can take only a couple of minutes to repair. However, this does not include preparation and drying time. Fixing a hole requires a bit of precision and using the right tools to ensure the job is completed correctly. You’ll need to be open to repeating the process to ensure it’s reinforced correctly to avoid potential problems.

Materials and tools

  • Wall repair kit
  • Dust mask
  • Safety glasses
  • Putty knife
  • Trimming knife
  • Paint scraper with a wide blade
  • Sandpaper
  • Rag
  • Plaster compound
  • Jointing tape
  • Cork sanding block

How to patch a hole in the wall

  1. Clean the area: When you want to repair a hole in plasterboard, start by cleaning around the hole to remove any loose debris that may be present. Any small pieces of dust or particles can get stuck in the plaster and can prevent the surface from looking smooth once it dries. Tap down the edges of the hole with the handle of your putty knife and scrape around it to make it smooth. 
  2. Apply mesh: Peel off the back of a square piece of adhesive fibreglass mesh and secure it firmly over the hole when plastering holes in walls. There should be two to three extra centimetres of the mesh material around the hole to ensure there’s sufficient coverage. You can then add some adhesive tape to secure it.
  3. Apply plaster: Use plaster compound to fill the hole while sanding the surrounding paint to roughen it up. Use jointing tape to reinforce the hole and add a little more compound before it starts to dry. Learning how to prepare the hole and the surrounding surface can allow you to get the best results.
  4. Sand down: Use fine paper to sand down the patched area and smooth it out for a clean, professional finish. 
  5. Apply a second coat: After the first coat of plaster is dry, you can apply a second coat after lightly sanding it down and dusting the surface off with a clean rag. The second coat of hole filler should be slightly wider than the first coat and can be smoothed out with your paint scraper. Dust the surface off before you start to apply the first coat of paint to ensure it blends in well with the wall.
Plastering a small hole / Source: Shutterstock

How to fix a large hole in plaster wall

You can repeat the process of repairing a hole in a plaster wall when you have a larger hole but may need more wall filler and a larger piece of fibreglass mesh. When you’re ready to perform plaster hole repair, measure the hole in advance and add a few centimetres before cutting the material to the desired size. Consider doing multiple coats to prevent the hole from forming again in the future.

How to patch a hole in the ceiling?

When you have a hole that is present in a ceiling where there’s plaster, the process is slightly different compared to plastering a wall. Start by accessing the attic to inspect the hole if it’s larger than 30cm wide. Move any nearby wires away from the hole, or call a professional if you don’t feel it’s safe to do it yourself. 

Use a drywall knife to cut the damaged area out of the hole. Measure the amount of drywall that you removed to get an idea of how much mesh wall material and drywall type you’ll need to use to get proper coverage. Secure the mesh material with tape. Apply a thin layer of compound over the materials and allow it to dry before moving on to the next step.

You can now sand down the patched seams and wall hole filler with a fine-grit sanding block. More compound can be applied to the recessed seams in multiple layers, if necessary. 

Contact local plasterers

How to hire a plasterer

Licencing and qualifications

After looking for a qualified professional and narrowing down your options, you’ll need to look into the background of each plasterer you’re considering hiring for the task. Look up the plasterer’s license to verify they’re qualified to perform the job and can legally perform the work. You can also inquire about their experience in the industry to determine if they can complete the task correctly.

Read online reviews

Search for reviews online to read about former clients’ experience working with the plasterer to determine if they recommend the services to other people. You’ll take less of a risk with the professional you hire if you get an idea of the quality of work they perform and if they have good interactions with their customers. The reviews will offer insight into the reputation of the individual in the industry.

Request a quote

The cost of patching holes in plaster is one of the main factors to consider when deciding who you plan to hire to perform the work. Avoid hiring someone who gives you the lowest quote, which means they may cut corners or don’t have as much experience in the industry compared to other professionals. Although you may pay more, it can allow the work to blend in more with the wall and for it to last long-term without caving in again.

Categories
Building & renovations

How to soundproof a room

As the world seems to be getting noisier and noisier, most of us are becoming even more determined to keep as much noise as possible out of our living spaces. With increased traffic outside, as well as high-tech stereos and entertainment centres in our homes – not to mention the smaller yards separating houses, it seems as if were more vulnerable than ever to the noises of our neighbours as well as the sounds produced by the rest of the outside world.

Soundproofing with plasterboard

There are three types of plasterboard that are commonly used for soundproofing:

  • Barrierboard: This Australian-made plasterboard comes from a composite material that reduces outside noise levels by as much as 75 percent. Barrierboard is comprised of two sheets, with a layer of insulation in between. This rigid, 32mm board wont sag or bend, and can be applied directly onto standard walls without having to make construction changes to areas such as doorways.
  • Boral SoundSTOP: Especially engineered for areas with acoustic walls and ceilings installations. Its used in conjunction with the Quiet Living, CinemaZone and PartiWALL systems produced by Boral. One advantage of the Quiet Living system is that is uses the same width as a standard interior wall, so its compatible with standard window frames, door jambs and other features. Likewise, Borals CinemaZone system is specially designed to protect your home theatre room from outside noises while enhancing and controlling the noise levels from the theatre speakers. Note: Boral SoundSTOP is so effective that loud outside voices can only be heard as a quiet murmur indoors. If more sound blocking is needed, you can add another layer to the wall.
  • Gyprock Soundchek: This 10mm plasterboard is made with a thick, sound-reflective gypsum core thats layered with heavy-strength liner boards. It comes in two levels: STC 45, which can make conversations inaudible, and STC 50, which reduces sounds produced by music.

Enhancing your soundproofing

To enhance your plasterboard soundproofing, you can combine it with either wall or roof insulation to add another layer of protection. You can also apply it to solid doors that have been surrounded with protective door seals. If you have an entertainment centre or home theatre, you’ll want to also install soft carpeting and furnishings that are quiet and don’t creak. Additionally, take steps to ensure that light switches and power points aren’t placed back to back, as sound can leak through the gaps that were created for these installations.

Along with plasterboard, ensuring your home is properly insulated will help reduce noise / Source: Active Vac and Insulation

Soundproof doors

A soundproof door is heavily insulated to block out noise and vibrations from the outside. This reduction in noise is achieved with strong acoustic seals and quality insulation. Acoustic doors are made in accordance with standards of sound resistance and should be certified after testing. They are available in a wide range of materials like laminated steel, galvanised steel and also sheet metals.

Different types

Once you have considered your soundproof requirements, you can choose doors in different sizes and types.

The main doors available include the following:

  • Double or single sliding doors
  • Swinging doors, single or double.
  • Smoke or fire doors.
  • Magnamatic or electronic automatic doors.
  • Lightweight or heavy doors.

Soundproof windows

Noise from the street can get in easily through single glazed windows. The glass is thin, but there are also small holes and gaps around the window frame and joints that allow sound to transmit into your home. The sound can also travel through vibration as the noise hits the glass and vibrates through your house. Ensuring that your windows are well-sealed is one step to take, but getting them double glazed provides extra soundproofing.

Double glazed windows

Double glazed windows are completely sealed and do not allow the air to vibrate sound into your home. There are two layers of glass with a small gap between them, which helps to kill the vibration. Additionally, the extra pane of glass means that any outside noise has two panes to travel through before it can break into the peacefulness of your home. Double glazed windows can prevent the transmission of noise by up to 70 percent. New home builds will likely have double glazed windows, however older homes will need to retrofit these.

Contact local glaziers

Other soundproofing tips

In addition to plasterboard, soundproof doors and windows, here’s some other tips to minimise noise where it’s needed; for example a home theatre.

  • Ensuring adequate insulation throughout the ceiling and walls
  • Plush furnishing and carpet, as well as heavy window coverings that can absorb sound
Categories
Walls & flooring

Plaster vs render: What’s the difference?

Key facts

  • Plastering is used for interior wall and ceiling finishes, offering a smooth and versatile surface.
  • Rendering is used for exterior wall finishes, providing durability and weather resistance.

Are you planning a home renovation and feeling overwhelmed by the choices for your walls? One common dilemma homeowners face is deciding between plaster and render. While both materials create smooth and even surfaces, they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. 

This guide will help you understand the differences between rendering vs plastering, empowering you to make informed decisions for your specific needs.

What is plaster?

Hand smoothing plaster on a wall using a trowel during the final stage of drywall installation.
Smoothing interior plaster onto a wall surface | Source: iStock

Plaster is a versatile material used to create smooth and even surfaces on interior walls and ceiling plastering. Plaster is typically made of gypsum, lime, or a combination of both. Plaster is applied in a wet form and dries to a hard, durable finish. Different types of plaster materials exist, including gypsum plaster, lime plaster, and veneer plaster, each with unique properties and applications.

Plaster is best suited for interior applications where a smooth and even finish is desired, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. 

What is a render?

Gloved hand using a flat trowel to spread render over a rough exterior wall for a durable outer coating.
Rendering an exterior wall with a coarse base layer | Source: iStock

Render, which is typically made from cement, acrylic, or polymer mixed with sand and other aggregates, is a durable, weather-resistant material used to create a protective and decorative finish on exterior walls. It is applied wet and dries to a hard, textured finish. The different types of render, each with unique properties and applications, include cement render, acrylic render, and polymer render.

Rendering in construction is best suited for exterior applications where durability and weather resistance are essential, such as external walls, fences, and facades.

Plastering vs rendering: Knowing the key differences

While both plastering and rendering create smooth and even surfaces, they differ significantly in their composition, application, and functionality. Understanding these differences is crucial in deciding whether you need plastering or rendering for your project.

In terms of cost

Man standing in a hardware store aisle holding a large white bag of plaster used for interior wall finishing.
Buying a bag of plaster from the hardware store | Source: iStock

Plastering and rendering vary in cost depending on factors like project size, material type, and labour rates. Generally, plastering is more expensive than rendering due to the higher cost of materials and specialised labour required. However, rendering may require additional surface preparation, which can increase the overall cost of a rendering project.

For interior applications, plastering is the preferred choice despite the higher cost. For exterior surfaces and application, rendering offers a cost-effective solution without compromising durability and weather resistance.

Recommendation: Plastering for internal applications like interior walls, and rendering for exterior work.

In terms of material mixture and composition

Plaster and render have different material compositions, which affects their properties and uses. Plaster typically uses gypsum or lime as a binder, mixed with sand and other aggregates.

Gypsum-based plaster is commonly used indoors due to its smooth finish and quick drying time. Lime-based plaster is more suitable for older buildings and heritage restoration projects due to its breathability and flexibility.

Rendering materials, however, often incorporates cement, acrylic, or polymers as a binder, mixed with sand and other aggregates. Cement render is a traditional and cost-effective option, offering good durability and weather resistance. 

Meanwhile, acrylic render is more flexible and less prone to cracking, making it suitable for areas with movement or thermal expansion. Lastly, polymer render is a modern and high-performance option, offering superior adhesion, flexibility, and water resistance.

Recommendation: Gypsum plaster is best for interior walls due to its smoothness, while acrylic or polymer render is better for exterior walls due to its flexibility.

In terms of functionality and uses

Interior room under construction with freshly plastered drywall, visible seams, and exposed outlets.
Plastered drywall surfaces during a home renovation | Source: iStock

Plaster and render serve different functional purposes in construction and renovation projects. Plaster is mainly used inside to create a smooth surface for painting or wallpaper, and to add decorative elements like cornices and mouldings.

Render is mostly used on exterior walls to protect and decorate them, and it also helps regulate the building’s temperature. Render is particularly useful for covering imperfections in brickwork or concrete surfaces or mending exterior walls’ cosmetic defects.

Recommendation: Plaster is best suited for interior applications where aesthetics and smooth finish are paramount. Render is ideal for exterior applications where durability, weather resistance, and thermal performance are essential.

In terms of maintenance and durability

Plaster and render each have different maintenance requirements and durability levels. It requires regular cleaning and occasional touch-ups to maintain its smooth finish and prevent cracking. Proper ventilation and waterproofing are crucial, as plaster is susceptible to moisture damage.

Conversely, render is more durable and requires less maintenance. It is resistant to cracking, weathering, and moisture damage, making it ideal for exterior applications. However, it may still require occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime. 

Important note: Before undertaking any plastering or rendering work on older buildings, particularly those built from the 1930s to the 1970s, have the surfaces checked for asbestos. Consult a licensed asbestos professional if you suspect its presence.

Recommendation: Plaster needs frequent upkeep to preserve its appearance in interior applications; render is low-maintenance.

In terms of sustainability and environmental impact

Construction worker in safety gear applying plaster on a tall indoor wall using a long trowel.
Plastering an indoor wall for a smooth interior finish | Source: iStock

Both plaster and render have environmental implications. Traditional plaster and render mixes can generate significant waste and have a high carbon footprint due to cement production. However, the industry is moving towards more sustainable practices.

Eco-friendly alternatives like clay plasters and lime renders are gaining popularity. These materials have lower embodied energy, are often locally sourced, and can be recycled. Some innovative products incorporate recycled materials or industrial by-products, reducing waste and environmental impact.

Proper application techniques can minimise waste, and some companies now offer recycling services for leftover materials. Additionally, well-maintained plaster and render can contribute to a building’s energy efficiency, potentially offsetting its initial environmental cost over time.

Recommendation: Consider eco-friendly options such as clay plasters and lime renders.

In terms of safety

Both plaster and render can be dangerous if not installed or maintained properly. Plaster is susceptible to moisture damage and can become slippery when wet, increasing the risk of falls. If the render isn’t applied correctly, it can crack and detach from the wall, which could injure people and damage the property.

Proper installation and waterproofing are essential for both plaster and render to ensure safety and prevent damage. It’s important to hire qualified professionals for installation and to follow safety guidelines during application and maintenance.

Recommendation: Both plaster and render require careful installation and maintenance to ensure safety.

Choose the appropriate finish for your project

Basically, deciding between plaster and render all comes down to what your project actually needs. Both techniques serve unique purposes, with plaster enhancing interiors and render protecting exteriors. 

To get the best results for your home extension or improvement project, consult a qualified plasterer or renderer who can assess your specific needs and provide expert advice tailored to your project. With the right application, you’ll achieve a stunning and durable finish that stands the test of time.

Ready to give your walls a refresh? Post a job on Oneflare and connect with top-rated plasterers or renderers to get the job done right and safely.

FAQs on plastering and rendering

Which is better for my project, plaster or render?

The choice between plaster and render depends on your specific needs, project requirements and area to fix/improve. Consider the location, budget, desired finish, and maintenance requirements before making a decision.

Can I use render for interior applications?

Yes, render can be used for interior applications, but it may not provide the same smooth and even finish as plaster.

Can I use plaster for exterior applications?

No, plaster is not recommended for exterior applications as it is susceptible to moisture damage and cracking.

Which is more expensive, plastering or rendering?

Generally, the cost of plastering is higher than rendering due to the higher cost of materials and specialised labour required.