3 Knows in Becoming a Plasterer

The plastering business has been around for as long as the construction industry itself. Its history goes back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was used as a type of building material. Over the years, different types of materials have been developed and perfected for use in drywall and other similar structures. Plastering is no longer an exclusive trade that only master-plasterers can accomplish; there are now many guides available that will teach you how to become a plasterer, no matter what your experience level may be.

Before actually attempting to learn how to become a plasterer for yourself, you must understand some of the basics behind this particular trade. This article will discuss those basics to improve the chances that anyone reading it will be able to complete any future plastering projects.

Know the Different Types of Plasters

One of the first things you need to know is that several different types of plasters can be used for any given application. Some tradesmen use a variety of different materials, depending on their customer’s preferences and budget, but it is also common for one person to specialize in just one type of material and only work with that specific substance.

The three most popular types of plaster include Venetian, Lime and Cement. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing between them usually comes down to which mixture will work best for a particular project.    

For example, a lime plaster may work best for an interior project while a cement plaster may be the better option for exterior jobs.

If you are new to plasterers and have never had an opportunity to use any of these materials yourself, then it might be a good idea to start with Venetian. This material is commonly found in older homes that date between the years 1700 and 1900. Even though it takes longer than other mixtures to dry (30 days before it can be painted), it requires no maintenance once complete.

Know the Different Types of Tools

Different types of tools will also need to be used during your learning process; some of them might already exist in your workshop or garage, but others will need to be purchased before you begin working on your first project.

For example, most plasterers use a trowel for smoothing and shaping their materials into the proper size and shape. You can easily purchase a trowel at any home improvement or hardware store, but you might also want to consider purchasing an edger as well. This particular tool is smaller than a trowel and is used to smooth out the seams where two pieces of drywall meet together.

If you are working with cement plaster or lime plaster as opposed to Venetian, then you will also need masonry tools for preparing those materials before they can be applied properly. For example, some cement must be mixed with sand to complete the drying process; masonry tools are specifically designed for this type of job.

Know the Protective Gear to Wear

The last thing you need to know before learning how to become a plasterer is that some sort of protective gear will be needed throughout the entire project. Even though plastering is considered less dangerous than many other construction jobs, it still poses its risks if proper safety precautions are not taken.

For example, working with wet materials and equipment requires gloves and eye protection to make sure you do not come in contact with any splashes or residue. Knowing what type of gear you will need will also help you better prepare; purchase everything ahead of time so nothing gets forgotten on the big day.

By now, hopefully, everyone reading has a basic understanding as to how plastering works and why learning how to become a plasterer is not always as easy as it seems. This article has outlined some of the basic tools, materials and safety precautions that should be considered before beginning any plastering application; this information will provide you with an excellent head start in knowing what steps are necessary for your success.