Plastering is an essential aspect of home improvement projects that can add a touch of finesse to your home’s interior and exterior walls. It is a technique that involves covering walls and ceilings with a smooth and even layer of plaster, creating a visually appealing and durable surface.
However, plastering can be challenging, especially if you are a novice DIY enthusiast. It requires specific tools and techniques to achieve a professional-looking finish. Below you can see some of the many tools needed to tackle plastering at home.
Trowels
Trowels are one of the most important plastering tools you will need for plastering your home. They come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific purposes. A plastering trowel spreads the plaster onto the walls and ceilings smoothly, while a margin trowel is perfect for filling in small cracks and gaps. A bucket trowel is handy for mixing plaster, and a pointing trowel is excellent for working on narrow spaces such as corners.
Mixing Drill
Mixing drills are power tools used for mixing plaster and other building materials. They have a powerful motor that can mix materials quickly and efficiently. Using a mixing drill saves time and effort compared to manual mixing, and it ensures that the plaster is mixed thoroughly, resulting in a consistent texture.
Plasterer’s Hawk
A plasterer’s hawk is a small, square board with a handle underneath. You use it to hold the plaster while you work, allowing you to apply it to the wall or ceiling easily. A plasterer’s hawk is essential for achieving a smooth and even finish.
Plasterer’s Float
A plasterer’s float is a rectangular or circular tool used to smooth the surface of the plaster. It is made of dense foam or rubber, which makes it flexible and easy to work with. Using a plasterer’s float helps create a uniform surface, ensuring the plaster is spread evenly.
Plastering Sponge
A plastering sponge dampens the plastered surface before smoothing it with a plasterer’s float. You also use it to clean the surface and remove any excess plaster. A good plastering sponge is essential for achieving a polished and professional-looking finish when plastering your home.
Spirit Level
A spirit level ensures that the plastered surface is level and even. It is a simple but essential tool that helps to achieve a high-quality finish. Using a spirit level prevents the plaster from cracking and ensures smooth and uniform surfaces.
Sandpaper
You use sandpaper to smooth out rough edges and remove any imperfections in the plastered surface. It is available in different grades, and the coarseness of the sandpaper you choose will depend on the level of roughness you want to remove. You will find it difficult to achieve a smooth and polished finish without sandpaper.
Plastering Beads
Plastering beads are used to reinforce the edges of the plastered surface. They come in different shapes and sizes, each designed for specific purposes. Using plastering beads helps to create a neat and clean finish, ensuring that the plastered surface is protected from wear and tear.
Once you have all the tools you need to plaster your home, watching tutorial videos online is worth taking the time to learn the skills you will need. Take your time and be patient, and you can ensure you do a fantastic job of plastering your home.
