PLASTERING FAQ’S:
FAQ;
I have an artexed ceiling – can it be made smooth?
FAQ 1 Definitely. There are two options;
First option is to remove any high points in the artexed ceiling. Scrim tape any cracks. Apply PVA to seal and bond. Finally apply 2 coats of plaster and finish to give a smooth and modern look. Some heavier artexed ceilings may need extra work.
Second option is to overboard the ceiling. Scrim tape plasterboard joints and then skim over. This method will cut out the artexed dust. This method will take a little longer. Also, if you have coving present then this method may not be feasible.
FAQ;
I have textured walls in my house, help!
Do not worry! The process for smoothing textured walls is very similar to covering artexed ceilings.
FAQ;
How long do I have to wait before I can paint new plaster?
Certainly wait for at least seven days. Until the plaster changes colour from a dark brown to a light pink. Ceilings will usually dry in about 3 days but it is always wise to leave for at least a week. Likewise with walls. You should also seal the new plaster with watered down paint or a new plaster sealer for the reason that new plaster is very porous and will almost certainly suck all the moisture out of un diluted paint as a result.
FAQ;
Do I have to remove the wallpaper before the walls are plastered?
Yes, all paper should be removed to ensure a proper adhesion. We do remove paper if clients would prefer this option.
FAQ;
After removing the wallpaper I noticed the walls are all cracked and crazed. Do I need to get them re plastered?
This depends on the level of damage. It also depends on the customers preference to finish. Everyone has different standards. In some cases, imperfections can be filled with a smooth filler and then sanded, but to achieve a uniform smooth finish the walls are always better when re plastered. If you are unsure, give me a call and I’ll be happy to advise you on what is best for you.
FAQ;
I have had a water leak and the ceiling has a sag in it. What can be done about this?
First of all we must fix the problem leak that is causing the damage in the first place before we even think about fixing the ceiling. Then we can fix the ceiling. Plasterboard that has become damp tends to warp and sag. Plasterboard that is damp also provides an ideal medium for mould growth. Normally the affected plasterboard will be cut out to the nearest joists and replaced with new plasterboard. We will then scrim tape the joints and then plaster to finish. Another option is to patch in the ceiling, depending on the amount of damage that has been caused.
FAQ;
I have a water damaged ceiling. Can I get my insurance company to pay for repairs?
Yes. Upon inspection of your property, I will supply you with a free written quotation. You will need to submit the quotation your insurance company. Most insurance companies usually ask for at least two quotations. So when finding a second company to quote, make sure that their quote is free.
FAQ;
What do I have to do to prepare my room before the plasterers arrive?
First of all, areas in question should have all furniture and fittings removed. This is for the reason that it enables the plasterers to reach all areas safely. Also it allows the plasterer to work more efficiently, consequently costing less in time, therefore, less in cost to the customer. The plasterer will have adequate dust sheets to cover all necessary surfaces. The plasterer will require a supply of cold fresh water and power for mixing tools.
FAQ;
Do I need to remove my carpet?
No. All carpets are fully covered with a carpet protector. Which is a self adhesive plastic sheet that clings to your carpet and no water or dust can penetrate this surface. As well as the carpet protector, we also use laminated dust sheets which we place on top of the carpet protector as a double measure.
FAQ;
I have damaged my walls trying to remove wall tiles and there are now holes in my walls. What can be done?
First of all, if its a plasterboard partition wall and the plasterboard is really damaged it is best to cut out the damaged section to the nearest joist. Then fit a new piece of plasterboard. This method is not expensive and is a relatively quick and simple process (depending on the situation). It really depends on what you intend to do with the wall e.g. are you going to put new tiles on or do you want a good finish to paint.
Another scenario is if the wall is a solid wall. Therefore we would fill the hole using a backing plaster or a render if the hole recedes back to brickwork before re plastering the wall. If the hole is small, maybe just re skimming will be suffice.
FAQ;
I am having a new bathroom fitted. At what stage should I get the walls and ceiling plastered?
After the old suite has been removed and after the plumber has done his first fix (eg pipes repositioned to take new suite). If you are having new spot lights fitted, it is best to have the wires in for them only. If they are already fitted, they can be taken out and plastered around.
FAQ;
I am having a new kitchen fitted. When is the best time to plaster the walls and ceiling?
Much like a bathroom – once the pipes and new electrics have been fitted, but before the new kitchen units are installed.
FAQ;
I just want some coving fitted – would you do this?
Yes, of course. We specialise in all types of plaster coving, polyurethane lightweight coving and fibrous cornice. It is totally up to you which type you want. I can certainly provide samples. Coving ranges in sizes. The most common coving for new properties is the 90mm and the 127mm standard coving. For older properties then the fibrous cornice is mostly used in keeping with the character of the property.
FAQ;
Do you charge by the square metre?
I am often asked this question when quoting for jobs. The answer is I will not charge by the square meter. For the reason that every job is different and requires different preparation and varying amounts of different materials to ensure a quality finish. Plaster has to be worked to a flat finish over a course of around two hours so therefore small areas will take the same amount of time as a larger area, so if the job is priced by the meter it would probably result in a non profitable job.