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Relevant Matters to Discuss before Hiring a Plasterer

What questions should you pose to your plasterer to evaluate their level of expertise? It is always advisable to hire a competent professional to handle the plastering for you because the job is hard.

 

When it comes to a home that safeguards the occupants by keeping them safe, maintenance is a crucial duty. If a home isn’t kept up with, the plaster on the walls may crack, weakening the wall and making it leak.

 

Plastering is a crucial consideration when building a new home as it not only smoothens the walls but also adds support, making the walls stronger. A professional plasterer is essential because the type of plaster used and how it is applied determine the strength of the home.

 

This article offers some advice on how to pick a reputable plasterer and what enquiries to make about them.

 

How Thickly Will the Plaster Be Applied?

 

Although this is a difficult question to start with, your plasterer should be able to respond. Undercoat plasters are typically put at a thickness of 11 mm for walls, 8 mm for ceilings, and 2 mm for finish coat plasters.

 

Some one-coat plasters are put at a thickness of 10mm for ceilings and 13mm for walls. However, if you only use one coat, you might not want to hire a plasterer.

 

What Kind of Plaster Would You Apply Over Cement and Sand Undercoats?

 

If you ask your plasterer this question, they should respond that it depends on how well the background material is sucked in. There are various brands; however, they might recommend something like Thistle Multi-Finish or Durafinish.

 

How Are You Going to Handle Salt Contamination If It Occurs?

 

The plasterer should remove any salt that comes to the surface of the backdrop carefully. The background ought to be spotless and dust-free. Salt contamination might lead to damp issues if there is a lot of it present. 

 

If the salts are from the drying process or are the result of a larger damp issue in your home, the plasterer should determine which it is.

 

What Type of Plaster Would You Apply after Installing a Moisture-Proof Course?

 

If you’re repainting after a damp-proof course, cement-based plaster is required.

 

Plastering a Damp Wall—Is It Necessary?

 

If you ask your plasterer if the wall has rising or penetrating dampness, they should say no. This should be fine if there is only a small amount of residual moisture after a damp-proof course has been installed.

 

Can Plastering Affect Air Leakage and Increase a Building’s Energy Efficiency?

 

It does. By caulking gaps and cracks with the appropriate plaster, you can keep an airtight seal. Some plasters are also excellent at helping buildings retain heat, which could result in lower energy costs.

 

How Should a Painted Wall Be Plastered?

 

If they are competent, the plasterer should advise against plastering anything other than a painted wall that is in excellent shape. They should offer to do a test area first to determine if it is appropriate before plastering over a painted wall if you want them to.

 

Conclusion

 

Ask your plasterer the enquiries that are pertinent to your project, and then observe their responses. You will soon be able to distinguish between plasterers who are knowledgeable in their field and those who are only interested in making quick cash.

 

You will find an excellent plasterer on the Gold Coast at We Plaster & Recruit! We’re a registered plastering company that provides the best plastering services with operations throughout Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Queensland. Call us now to start your home improvement project!

Plaster Issues around Your Home That You Should Be Aware Of

Plaster is one of Australia’s most often used building materials because of its affordability and repairability. However, it can soon display symptoms of general wear and tear or deterioration due to the temperature, particularly in severely dry or humid situations.

A new home may have some wall and ceiling plaster cracking after a few months of construction due to foundation settlement, sagging/moving ceiling joists, and walls made of wood, masonry, or other materials. 

This is typical of newly constructed homes and can usually be repaired by taping the seams again. However, if the cracks are more severe, an engineer may be required to analyse the problem, remove the affected section, and then replace it with fresh plaster.

You can fix difficulties before they grow bigger and cost you more money if you know what kinds of issues can happen and how to fix them.

Plasterboard cracking is one of its key issues, and it can happen for a number of causes, such as building movement, differing soil types, and moisture damage.

Minor cracks can be fixed; however, replacing the damaged area is usually simpler and results in a superior finish for larger or more severely damaged regions.

Below are different forms of plaster problems that you may encounter in your house.

Hairline Cracks

These are tiny fissures that may be directed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. They are often the least significant and, unless they are expanding, merely require aesthetic care.

Settlement fissures

These are caused by soil or foundation sinking and are particularly prevalent in new or remodelled homes. These fractures should be watched for since they can be identified by clusters of cracks convergent in one direction. 

You should hire a professional to look into them if they keep spreading or if new cracks start to form.

Delaminating Cracks

This indicates plaster pulling away from the wall or ceiling stud behind it. On both ceilings and walls, these fissures typically run parallel to the studs, and there is a risk that the plasterboard could separate. These require immediate maintenance or replacement.

Plaster That Has Lost Its Colour

This can indicate water damage. Soon after a leak starts, stains will appear. The degree of damage will determine the extent of repairs or the necessity for replacements, but in order to stop recurring issues, the leak must be located and fixed.

Plaster That Bubbles

Plaster may start to bubble or expand if there is extensive water damage or moisture. This can happen even if there are no obvious water stains. Similar to delaminating fissures, these problems demand prompt, professional assistance.

Conclusion

Plaster is an important material for the structure of your home, and it is important to be aware of potential issues that may arise. It can be affected by moisture, cracking, and deterioration due to age. This is why it is important to inspect your plaster regularly for any signs of damage and have it repaired quickly to avoid further damage. 

In terms of any home maintenance, prevention is vital. Depending on your level of skill, you might be able to handle little projects on your own, but you should seek professional advice for bigger, more complicated jobs.

We Plaster & Recruit delivers an excellent plastering service on the Gold Coast. We are a registered plastering company that provides the best plastering services with operations throughout Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Queensland. Contact us today to learn more!

A Beginner’s Guide to External Plasterboard Ceilings

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your home, an external plasterboard ceiling is a great way to do it. Plasterboard ceilings are popular for many homeowners because they are relatively easy to install and maintain. Plus, they offer a wide variety of design options to choose from.

What Are External Plasterboard Ceilings?

Plasterboard ceilings are an external plastering system that creates a level, even surface on ceilings. They are made from a plasterboard layer applied to the top of the ceiling joists. The plasterboard is then sealed with a layer of joint compound and left to dry.

What Are the Benefits of Using External Plasterboard Ceilings?

If you’re thinking about renovating your home or office, you may be wondering if an external plasterboard ceiling is the right choice for you. Here are some of the benefits of using an external plasterboard ceiling that you may not have considered:

1. Increased Insulation

Plasterboard is an excellent insulator, so using it on your ceiling will help to keep your home or office cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This can lead to significant savings on your energy bills.

2. Soundproofing

If you live in a busy area or have noisy neighbours, an external plasterboard ceiling can help to reduce the amount of noise that enters your home or office. This can be a great way to improve your quality of life and increase your concentration levels.

3. Fire Resistance

Plasterboard is a fire-resistant material that can offer protection against accidental fires. This can be particularly useful in commercial and industrial settings.

4. Easy to Install

External plasterboard ceilings are relatively easy to install. You can either have your plasterboard ceiling installed by a professional or do it yourself. However, it is always advisable to seek professional help if you are unsure how to install the plasterboard ceiling.

5. Affordable

Plasterboard ceilings are a highly affordable option when compared to other ceiling types. This makes them an ideal choice for commercial and industrial settings.

What Are the Most Common Issues of External Plasterboard Ceilings?

External plasterboard ceilings are a common sight in many homes and businesses. While they offer a clean, modern look, they can also be susceptible to several issues. Here are some of the most common problems with external plasterboard ceilings:

1. Cracks

One of the most common problems with plasterboard ceilings is the formation of cracks. These can be caused by some factors, including the settlement of the building, movement of the structure, or even just the weight of the plasterboard itself. In some cases, cracks may not be a major issue, but in others, they can cause the plasterboard to become detached or even collapse completely.

2. Water Damage

Another common problem with plasterboard ceilings is water damage. This can be caused by leaks from pipes or appliances or even rainfall if the ceiling is not properly sealed. Water damage can cause the plasterboard to swell, leading to cracks and even complete collapse. In addition, it can also lead to the growth of mould and mildew, which can be a health hazard.

3. Sagging

Sagging is another common issue with plasterboard ceilings. The weight of the plasterboard usually causes this, but it can also be caused by water damage or the settling of the building.

4. Collapse

Collapse is the most serious problem with plasterboard ceilings. This can be caused by several factors, including settlement of the building, movement of the structure, water damage, or even just the weight of the plasterboard itself. Collapse can cause serious injury or even death, so it is important to have any suspicious plasterboard ceilings inspected by a professional.

Conclusion

External plasterboard ceilings are a great way to improve the look of your home. They are also a great way to improve the value of your home.  However, it is important to maintain them properly as they are at risk for some issues if not taken care of properly. Make sure to consult with an expert before making any decisions.

If you want to hire plasterers in Brisbane, you can contact us at We Plaster & Recruit. Bring new life and upgrade the looks of your home by working with us and receiving our best quality of work. Get in touch with us at We Plaster & Recruit and hire our services.

4 Precautions to Take During Plastering Work on Wall

When constructing a house, there are many things to think about, like the colours of the walls, the furniture and the light fixtures. But the less noticeable elements, such as the foundation and plastering, are often overlooked. This blog post will look at the entire plastering process from beginning to end.

What Is Plastering Work?

Plastering is an important task that needs to be done in construction projects. It is a protective layer to prevent water damage on top of the brickwork and provides a smooth, attractive finish. Additionally, plastering can help protect surfaces from changes in the weather, cover porous materials, and make surfaces even, which can then be painted.

Pre-Requisites of Plastering Work

Before starting to plaster the inside of a building, the inner brickwork must be complete. All the external brickwork around the different levels’ edges should be finished before beginning any outside plastering. The roof plaster should be done first, as exterior plastering is usually done from the top of the building.

Precautions to Take During Plastering Work

Here are four precautions you need to take during plastering work:

1. Preparing the Surface for Plastering

Plastering is a highly skilled trade that requires a lot of precision and attention to detail. To ensure a successful outcome, it’s important to properly prepare the wall before beginning any plastering work.

Before starting, the wall should be inspected for any loose mortar or dust. These should be scraped and brushed away with a wire brush. After that, the wall should be wiped with a damp cloth and allowed to dry completely. This will ensure a smooth surface for the plaster to adhere to.

2. Sieving the Sand

The sand must be filtered, and the cement mixture should be blended per the manufacturer’s directions. Start by sifting the sand through a fine mesh sieve to remove dirt, rocks, and other debris. Once you’ve filtered the sand, it’s time to blend the cement mixture.

When blending your cement mixture, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions. Once the mixture is blended, it’s important to ensure that the cement is properly cured. Curing the cement helps to ensure that the cement is strong, durable, and waterproof.

3. Preventing Cracks

Fractures are one of the most common types of damage that can occur in a building and can be extremely costly to repair. To prevent fractures, a 150 mm wide chicken wire should be set up between the wall and the junction of a column/beam. Secure it by nailing it in intervals of 150 mm.

4. Cement Coating

You’ll need to ensure you have the right materials for an external plaster job. For an external plaster job, you’ll need roughly one kilogram of cement per square meter and a wooden float and trowel. It’s also important to remember that you’ll need to apply two layers of plaster with a thickness of 18 millimetres to get a smooth finish.

Conclusion

Plastering work on walls should be done with utmost caution and attention. To ensure the work is done properly, it is important to take the abovementioned precautions. Before beginning the plastering work, it is also important to consider the room’s weather conditions, ventilation and space. With these precautions, wall plastering can be performed safely and efficiently.

We Plaster and Recruit is a registered plastering company providing the best plastering services with operations throughout Brisbane, Gold Coast and Queensland. We believe in quality work to breathe new life into the interiors while giving you value for your money. We follow strict protocols and guidelines to make our work stand out. If you need plastering services in Brisbane, we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help!

11 Advantages of Hiring a Pro Plasterer Even for Small Tasks

Plastering is an integral part of the process when it comes to improving the look and feel of your home. Whether a small patch or a full-scale renovation, hiring a professional plasterer is the best way to ensure the job is done right.

 

Here are the 11 advantages of hiring a pro plastering service, even for small tasks:

 

1. Professional Knowledge and Experience

Professional plasterers have the knowledge and experience to complete plastering jobs quickly and efficiently. They have been trained in the proper techniques and understand how to apply suitable materials to get the job done correctly.

 

2. Quality Results

Professional plasterers can produce high-quality results that are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. DIY projects often do not hold up as well as those done by a professional, so the results may only last for a while.

 

3. Time Savings

A professional plastering service can work much faster than DIYers due to their knowledge and experience. As a result, this setup can save you a great deal of time, allowing you to complete the project quickly and move on to the next task.

 

4. Access to Professional Equipment

Professional plasterers have access to a variety of specialized tools and equipment. This allows them to complete projects more quickly and efficiently than if they were to attempt the job themselves.

 

5. Cost Savings

Professional plasterers can often complete a project for a lower cost than if you were to do it yourself. This can help you save money and keep your overall budget for the project in check.

 

6. Safety

A professional plastering service knows how to use its tools safely and takes the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of everyone in the area. Besides that, DIY projects may expose you, your family, and your property to unnecessary risks.

 

7. Warranty

Many professional plasterers offer warranties for their work. This can provide peace of mind knowing that they will stand behind their work and make any necessary repairs if something goes wrong.

 

8. Improved Aesthetics

Professional plasterers can create beautiful walls and ceilings to make your home look better. They are the experts on how to do it, including the proper way to make it look good.

 

9. Professional Advice

Professional plasterers can advise on the best materials and techniques to use for your project. They can also provide valuable advice on maintaining your plasterwork over time.

 

10. Peace of Mind

Knowing that a professional handles your plastering project can help you relax and have peace of mind. This will help you enjoy the process of improving your home.

 

11. Cost Savings

Although hiring a professional plasterer may initially seem more expensive, it can save you money in the long run. Professional plasterers have access to bulk rates on materials and can often get the job done more quickly, which can help you save money on labor costs.

 

Conclusion

 

Hiring a professional plasterer for even small tasks can make a massive difference in the look and feel of your home. Professional plasterers have the experience, skill, and tools to get the job done right. They can also provide advice and help ensure your home looks its best. So, if you’re considering a plastering project, hire a professional.

 

We Plaster & Recruit is a renowned and registered company offering top-notch plastering services throughout Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Queensland. We provide various plastering services, including building repairs, interior and exterior finishes, and more. Contact us today if you are looking for a reliable and trustworthy plastering service company.

A Quick Overview of Venetian Plaster and Ways to Apply It

Venetian plaster is a luxuriously decorative material that creates a unique and striking look on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. It is a type of lime plaster, which is a mixture of lime, marble dust, and water. Venetian plaster has been used in interior design for centuries due to its stunning visual qualities and durability. It is a popular choice for walls, ceilings, and even furniture because it can be applied in various ways, creating a visually stunning and unique finish.

 

This article will provide a quick overview of Venetian plastering service and how to apply it. We’ll also discuss the benefits of using Venetian plaster and how to care for it properly.

 

How Is Venetian Plaster Different from Other Types of Plaster? 

 

One of the most significant differences between Venetian plaster and other types of plaster is the composition. While different types of plaster are made with gypsum, a mineral found in soil, Venetian plaster is made with slaked lime and marble dust. This combination of materials creates a denser and more durable plaster, which makes it suitable for use in areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures.

 

Another difference between Venetian plaster and other types of plaster is the finish. Venetian plaster has a glossy, polished finish, which gives it a luxurious and sophisticated look. Different types of plaster have a more matte, flat finish, which is better suited for areas that don’t require a decorative finish.

 

How Do You Apply Venetian Plaster? 

 

Applying Venetian plaster can be time-consuming, so you can always call for a plastering service. Here is the guide for its process.

 

To begin, you will need to choose the type of Venetian plaster finish you would like. There are a variety of finishes, including smooth, shiny, and matte. Once you have chosen your finish, you can prepare the surface for application. This may involve sanding, cleaning, and priming the wall.

 

Next, you will need to mix the Venetian plaster. This can be done by combining three parts of marble dust with one aspect of plaster and then adding water until you reach the desired consistency. Allow the mixture to sit and thicken for a few minutes before applying it.

 

When you are ready to apply the plaster, you will need to use a trowel or spatula to apply a thin layer of the plaster to the wall. Then, you will use a trowel to spread the plaster in a circular motion. It is essential to work quickly, as the plaster will dry soon. Once the first layer is dry, you can apply a second layer.

 

When you have finished applying the plaster, you must let it dry for at least 24 hours before applying a sealant or topcoat. This will help protect the plaster from scratches and staining. You can use a wax topcoat on the plaster to give it a glossy finish.

 

What Are Some of the Benefits of Venetian Plaster? 

 

Venetian plaster has many benefits in interior design, from its beautiful aesthetics to its durability and low maintenance. Here are some of the pros of Venetian plaster:

 

1. Aesthetics

 

Venetian plaster is available in various colours, finishes, and textures, allowing you to create unique and beautiful designs on your walls.

 

2. Durability

 

Venetian plaster is water-resistant and highly durable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like entryways and living rooms. It is also resistant to fading, maintaining its beautiful colour and texture over time.

 

3. Low Maintenance

 

Venetian plaster is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional dusting and an occasional damp cloth to keep it looking its best. It is also resistant to stains and easy to clean – just a wipe-down with a wet cloth will do the trick.

 

Conclusion

 

Venetian plaster is a unique and beautiful material that can add texture and depth to any room. It is easy to apply and can be used to create a variety of looks. With the proper preparation, application, and plastering service, Venetian plaster can last for decades and provide a beautiful backdrop for any living space.

 

We Plaster & Recruit is a highly reputable and reliable plastering service company based in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Queensland, providing top-notch services and excellent customer service. Our responsibility to quality and customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we strive to provide our customers with the best possible plastering experience. If you need any further information, do not hesitate to contact us.

How Is Plasterboard an Essential Component in Construction?

A well-designed skeleton is essential to any stable building, like a healthy human. It supports the weight of the roof, walls, and floors and can withstand the forces of nature. It’s also responsible for holding the building’s contents. 

 

Contractors construct the building’s skeleton with steel or wood before they cover the walls with sheet metal, timber, or bricks. While the building’s interior walls had plaster, contractors avoided using this material because it was complex and time-consuming to master. 

 

Fortunately, thanks to technological advancements, most plasterers now use plasterboard to help ensure a more efficient construction project. 

 

To help you understand the construction process, our plasterers will discuss what plasterboard is, its unique properties, and where they use it in your home. 

 

What Is Plasterboard?

 

Plaster is a material made from water and gypsum that resembles a thick paste you can smear onto a wall and smoothen into a finished surface. Property owners can also paint plaster with their desired colour to best match their style. Plasterers worldwide used this material for centuries to finish the internal walls of homes. 

 

Technological advancements in the construction industry eventually led to the birth of plasterboard, the modern version. Plasterers mix gypsum with water and foaming agents to form a light, airy plaster slurry. They’ll then sandwich the slurry between two thick layers of thick paper and dry them in ovens. 

 

Unlike traditional plastering methods, plasterers use plasterboards to create perfectly flat sheets of paper to attach to the home’s walls efficiently. 

 

What Are the Properties of Plasterboard?

 

After we briefly discuss plasterboard and its origins, this section will enumerate the five unique properties of this material. 

 

1. Moisture-Resistant

 

No homeowner would want any mould or mildew growth in their homes, especially in moist areas. Besides being unpleasant, mould can also pose severe health hazards, especially to people with compromised immune systems.

 

Fortunately, you can keep everyone at home healthy by asking your local plasterers to install specialty wet area plasterboards in your home. This material works best for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. 

 

2. Soundproof

 

Sometimes, you only want a little peace after a stressful day. You can relax better by asking your plasterers to install a plasterboard for your home. The material’s gypsum core reduces sound transmission through walls. Soundproof varieties are heavier and thicker than the standard ones. 

 

3. Vapour-Resistant 

 

Where there is vapour, there is moisture, thus creating the perfect environment for mould and mildew growth. You can protect your home’s structural integrity by letting plasterers install hybrid boards. 

 

These boards come from plaster and a vapour barrier. Plasterers usually use these boards for walls and ceilings that need protection against vapour.

 

4. Fire-Resistant 

 

As a responsible homeowner, you must protect your family and belongings from fire to avoid expensive mistakes. Fortunately, you can enjoy a safer home with a plasterboard core. It’s a fireproof material that slows the transmission of fire and heat while minimising smoke production. Your plasterers can also create them in greater thicknesses and with special additives. 

 

5. Impact-Resistant

 

Of course, you’d want your home to withstand any bumps and knocks. You can enjoy a more durable home by asking your plasterers to install impact-resistant plasterboards with heavier cores. 

 

Where to Use Plasterboard?

 

While you can usually find plasterboard in all types of buildings, plasterers typically use them in residential and lightweight commercial facilities. They attach them to walls and ceilings to form a flat, even surface that you can paint. 

 

While hanging plasterboards is straightforward, we highly encourage working with professional plasterers. They’ll have the right tools and experience to cover large areas efficiently. 

 

Plastering a Better Home

 

Being a responsible property owner means looking for durable and stylish ways to protect your home. Working with plasterers to install plasterboards for your home helps increase your quality of life indoors and improve property value. 

 

If you’re looking for plasterers in Brisbane, Gold Coast, or Queensland, look no further than We Plaster & Recruit. We are a fully licensed and insured company offering high-quality yet affordable plastering services. Contact us now to get a quote!

What’s a Cornice and What Types and Styles Are There?

Plaster is an incredibly versatile material that can be used to bring a unique aesthetic to a room. And while there are many applications for plaster, one of the most common is cornices. Using cornices, it’s possible to transform any interior space and give it a custom look. From modern, sleek curves to ornate, detailed designs, there is a variety of different cornice styles to choose from. Simply put, with the right cornice, you can create a sophisticated atmosphere that will make your home or office stand out. Whether you’re looking for something simple and understated or something that is a show-stopper, the right cornice can take a room to the next level.

 

That said, what’s a cornice? More importantly, what types are there? These two questions are what we’ll answer today:

 

What’s a Cornice?

 

A cornice is a decorative moulding that’s typically used to frame a ceiling or wall. It’s typically made from plaster or wood and most often includes intricate designs such as curves, swirls, and other ornamental shapes. Cornicing can also be used to create a bold statement in a room or to bring a touch of elegance and sophistication.

 

What Types and Styles of Cornices Are There?

 

There are many different types of cornices, each with its own unique look and feel. Some of the most popular types are:

 

1. Cove Cornicing

 

The timeless beauty of cove cornices can be seen in many modern buildings. They feature a curved, concave shape which helps to hide the gap between the wall and ceiling. This elegant design creates a smooth, polished look that can be found in a variety of materials, from plaster to plastic. There are also different sizes available, making it easy to find a cornice that perfectly fits the design of your space.

 

2. Sculpted Cornicing

 

If you’re not a fan of sleek contemporary lines, consider adding a touch of ornate design with a sculpted cornice. These decorative details can range from subtle moulding to more elaborate sculpted designs, often used to create a classic vintage look in a room. Whether you’re aiming for art deco or Victorian style, a sculpted cornice is a perfect way to make a statement with your decor.

 

3. Contemporary Cornicing

 

For those seeking a more modern look, contemporary cornices provide the perfect finishing touch. With sharp angles and square edges, these designs create a crisp edge that contrasts the smooth transition of a cove cornice. Gyprock offers a wide selection of stylish contemporary cornices that add definition and shape to a room. These geometric pieces provide the perfect foil to other interior elements, such as furniture, making them a great choice for any space.

 

4. Shadow Lines

 

Instead of the traditional cornice options, many people are now opting for a shadow line. While not strictly a cornice, it is still a great alternative. Shadow lines entail attaching plasterboard to the walls and then carefully attaching the ceiling plaster to create a thin, consistent gap between the two surfaces. This creates a distinct line that adds a hint of drama and definition to a room.

 

Conclusion

 

Cornices are an essential part of any interior design. They provide the perfect finishing touch to a room, creating a cohesive and stylish look. From traditional to contemporary styles, there are many options to choose from. Whether you opt for a cove, ogee, or shadow line, you can be sure that your cornice will add a touch of elegance to any space! So, what are you waiting for? Reach out to a professional designer today and get your cornice needs met.

 

We Plaster & Recruit is a fully licensed and insured plastering company offering the best plastering services you’ll find in the Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Queensland areas. If you are looking for plasterers near you, reach out to us today!

Wall Plasters 101: On Humidity and Atmospheric Changes

Whether you live at home with your family or not, it is important to know how humidity affects indoor air quality. For one, lime and clay plasters assist in reducing indoor humidity, which is vital for one’s health.

Indeed, improving indoor air quality can be a daunting task, especially when you don’t know what to do. To begin, you must know more about humidity and how it impacts the air quality in your home.

Read on as we talk about humidity, atmospheric changes, and the use of wall plasters in a home.

The Relationship between Indoor Humidity and Air Quality

  • When Humidity Is Too High

Excessive indoor humidity is a concern. One example is condensation on windows. Condensation can also form within walls. Excess moisture can cause mould, rot, and structural issues.

Mould spores, fungi, mites, and viruses multiply higher in damp environments. The off-gassing or release of hazardous compounds from building components is accelerated by high indoor humidity. The air quality will deteriorate. High humidity will eventually demand expensive repairs to remove mould and other impurities and restore the structural integrity and health of the property.

  • When Humidity Is Too Low

You may feel uneasy if the humidity inside is too low. Because perspiration evaporates more quickly in dry air, it makes you chilled. As a result, heating prices rise. The air may become drier depending on the source of heat. This causes trouble breathing, as well as dry eyes and skin.

Controlling Humidity Levels with Clay and Lime Plasters

Natural plasters absorb moisture from the air when relative humidity is high and gradually release it when relative humidity is low. This preserves humidity balance. As a result, humidity remains constant regardless of temperature or environment. All of the moisture absorbed by your plaster will not condense on a mould-prone component. Mildew-resistant clay and lime plaster

Wall Plasters and Atmospheric Changes

The weather has an impact on the application and quality of plaster. Temperature, humidity, wind, and sun exposure all play an impact.

  • The Cold and Condensation

A drop in temperature slows the setting and hardening of all plasters. Plastering in cooler weather requires longer intervals and retraining. Otherwise, the cold and thermal fluctuations can reduce the strength of the material and result in fractures.

It’s critical to note that cooler temps prevent cement from hydrating. Cooler temperatures also cause the setting procedure to take longer, or fail to instal overall.

Moreover, cold winter condensation can cause damage to completed plaster in some areas. Furthermore, it can prevent or postpone the drying of wet building activities for weeks or months, making plastering problematic.

  • The Hot and Dry

In hot, dry conditions, plaster can dry out before setting. Partially set weak material frequently has a powdery surface that is unsuitable for the next coat or ornamentation. Cement plaster is a sensitive material. Maintain a wet surface while curing.

Conclusion

Many Australians are now aware that during the cooler months, efflorescence is a concern. Salts are more visible during cooler days and nights than during warmer days and nights. Meanwhile, frosty winter efflorescence is caused by seasonal fluctuations in evaporation. 

Additionally, the rate of evaporation may be substantial in warmer or hotter conditions, resulting in significant evaporation of moisture within the cladding. Colder weather may cause evaporation to be delayed, allowing precipitation to reach the plaster’s surface before evaporating and leaving behind salt deposits. 

Following cold weather techniques during the cooler months may lessen or eliminate efflorescence.

We Plaster & Recruit is an esteemed company that offers  professional plastering services. With us, you can address the problems of your home and get solutions for them. Contact us today!

Some Notable Tips to Prepare Your Walls for Painting

Achieving a beautiful end result when decorating requires careful planning and execution. That said, spending a little extra time and attention on wall preparation before painting will lead to better results.

 

Read on to learn how to prep up freshly plastered walls, painted walls with cracks and holes, and walls that have been wallpapered in the past.

 

Walls of any material should be clean, dry, and free from greasy or dusty buildup. It should also be clear of any holes, cracks, loose or flaking plaster, peeling paint, or shards of wallpaper.

 

The best course of action is to remove as much furniture as possible from the affected area or to move it all to the middle of the room and cover it with plastic.

 

This would be the best canvas you’ve ever had. The best surface can be achieved simply by rolling on a primer and undercoat. The plaster will absorb any paint like a sponge if it has not been primed with a sealer, leading to excessive waste and the need for more coats of paint than are necessary. It’s important to wait until all new or raw plaster is cured before decorating. When the dark spots disappear or the colour changes to a pale pink or grey, you’ll know it’s dry.

 

Preparing Old Surfaces

 

Preparing previously painted walls for a new coat of paint is a simple process, but there are still steps you need to take to ensure a professional result.

 

Filling All the Holes and Cracks

 

You’ll need some fine sandpaper, sugar soap, some flexible filler, and a flexible filling knife. In addition to that, here are some other considerations:

 

  • First, use sugar soap to remove any dust from the gaps, ensuring that the filler sticks to the wall.
  • Second, you will need to use your flexible filling knife to smooth out the filler in the hole.
  • And lastly, wait for the filler to dry, then sand it down to a smooth finish.

 

Sanding the Walls

 

Get a new sheet of fine sandpaper and gently sand the entire wall, paying special attention to any flaking paint. Giving the wall some texture like this will make it easier for the paint to adhere.

 

To do this task, get sugar soap, a sponge, and some protective gloves. Use a sugar soap solution to get rid of grimy fingerprints, crayon marks, and oil. This is available in both pre-blended and aqueous forms. It’s best to use gloves when applying the sugar soap to the walls. Once you’ve finished washing the walls, rinse the surface with warm water to remove any soap residue. Don’t touch anything until the walls are completely dry.

 

Prepping up Your Previously Wallpapered Surfaces

 

These materials are required:

 

  • Bucket
  • Sandpaper
  • Sponge
  • Steam stripper
  • Stripping knife or orbital scorer
  • Sugar soap
  • Wallpaper stripping solution

 

First, using a stripping knife or orbital scorer, score the wallpaper in diagonal crosses without damaging the plaster underneath it.

 

Second, use a sponge and hot water to soften the wallpaper, making it more manageable to peel off. Soften it by wetting it in increments of a few metres and letting it sit for five minutes. Work carefully around electrical outlets and switches.

 

Then, remove the paper by sliding a wide stripping knife into one of the slits. To get rid of all the paper, repeat the steps above.

 

If you’re having trouble removing the wallpaper, consider using a wallpaper stripping solution, which dissolves the wallpaper paste. Just soak the paper in the solution, set it aside for a while, and then peel it off with the knife.

 

After you’ve removed the major remnants of paper, you may find some smaller bits still clinging to the wall. Try sandpaper if the stripping knife doesn’t do the trick. Using fresh sandpaper, you may also gently sand the walls.

 

And lastly, use a sugar soap solution to wash away any greasy fingerprints, crayon marks, or other grime. This is available in both pre-blended and aqueous forms. It’s best to use gloves when applying the sugar soap to the walls. Once you’ve finished washing the walls, give the surface one more rinse with warm water to get rid of any soap residue. Don’t touch anything until the walls are completely dry.

 

Conclusion

 

Indeed, painting your walls can be a daunting task, but with proper preparation, it can be a relatively easy and rewarding process. First, it is important to remove all furniture and other items from the room. Next, you will need to clean the walls, repair any damage, and apply a primer. Once the primer is dry, you can begin painting. Be sure to use the proper tools and techniques for the best results.

 

If you are looking for experienced painters and plasterers in Brisbane, look no further than our experts here at We Plaster & Recruit. We are a registered plastering company providing the best plastering services with operations throughout Brisbane, Gold Coast and Queensland areas. Call us today and let us prep your walls and paint them smoothly in no time!