Plaster Works

Plaster needs time to cure and dry through its full thickness before it is painted, and the time depends on thickness, weather and ventilation. Painting too early can trap moisture and cause blistering or patchy colour. The plasterer or paint maker's guidance should be followed.

Hairline cracks can come from plaster drying too fast, movement between different materials such as block and concrete, or thick layers applied in one go. Mesh over joints, controlled thickness and proper curing reduce cracking, though some fine cracks can still appear.

Yes, localised damage can usually be cut back to sound plaster and patched. The patch must be keyed to the surrounding surface and levelled well, and a coat of primer helps it blend before painting. Damp-related damage needs the source of moisture fixed first.

Plaster is the thicker base layer that corrects levels on masonry. A skim coat is a very thin final layer applied over a sound surface to give a smooth finish for paint. Which is needed depends on how even the existing wall is.

Dust, loose particles and uneven patches show through paint and stop wallpaper adhesive from bonding. The surface is sanded smooth, cleaned and sealed so the finish layer goes on evenly and sticks. Skipping this step is a common cause of poor finishes.