"The crew showed up every morning on time. They patched/drywalled and textured numerous small areas. The texturing was so good, that it is almost impossible to detect where the repairs where made. They also framed, drywalled and textured the kitchen area for recessed lighting installation. They repaired an area where there was a shower leak. They replaced the drywall and textured an area where a closet had been removed. On every part of the project, they exhibited superior workmanship. And at the end of every day, they cleaned up after themselves. Hire them again? Definitely yes! "
"Shannon arrived promptly at the scheduled time. He was very personable, courteous, and thorough and even developed an immediate relationship with our three big dogs. Shannon is a resident of Maricopa as well as a home owner and very active in our community. It s obvious he takes a great deal of pride in his professionalism and thoroughness. He spent over 3 and one half hours evaluating interior and exterior structures as well as mechanical systems, heating system, plumbing system, grounds and yard, etc. Shannon provided his results in a written report (via PDF format) which we could then forward to our builder. We didn t realize how little we actual knew about our house until Shannon s inspection. All things considered and according to our estimates his visit saved us about $3,000 in potential repairs. We now have the knowledge and comfort of knowing the real condition of our home. We have peace of mind and feel the resale value of our home is secure."
"At one point he became sick, and didn't show up for 3 days, and didn't notify me. When I called him, he said he would make it right and he did.I don't think this was done on purpose. He does great work, I find him trustworthy, and a great personality."
While it is possible to repair minor plaster cracks or holes yourself, it is generally not recommended for larger jobs or if you want a professional result. Plaster repair can be difficult in practice; proper wall preparation and achieving a smooth, seamless finish that blends with the existing wall requires experience, especially on textured surfaces. Hiring a professional ensures the repair will be durable and last longer, potentially saving you money over time. A pro can also determine if the cracks are from normal expansion or a more serious underlying issue.
Plaster is a pretty tough surface, but it can still sustain damage from things like bumping against it, water issues, dampness, extreme humidity changes, and plain old age. Most plaster walls last hundreds of years and will only be taken down to the base layer when major repairs are required. Being cautious around the wall, not placing furniture against it, and ensuring stable humidity are all great ways to reduce possible damage.
Yes, you can speed up the time it takes for plaster to dry, but it's important to do so carefully to avoid issues like cracking or crumbling. Proper ventilation is key; open a window or use a fan to circulate air in the room. Heat can also accelerate drying, but be cautious, as too much heat can cause the plaster to dry too quickly and crack. Check the plaster's packaging for the recommended drying temperature and set the room's thermostat accordingly. While managing humidity is important, avoid using a dehumidifier, which can remove moisture too aggressively and result in crumbly plaster.
Whether you can install or repair plaster yourself depends on the project's size and your comfort level with DIY projects. It's possible to handle small repairs on your own, but for larger projects like a room restoration or a full installation, it's often best to hire a local plaster professional. The final appearance, even coverage, and durability of the plaster depend heavily on proper wall preparation and application. If you are not 100% confident in your ability to achieve a professional result, letting an expert handle the job is a worthwhile investment.
Yes, you can apply new plaster over an existing plaster surface, such as a wall or ceiling, provided the old plaster is in good condition. Before you begin, check the stability of the existing plaster. The surface must be clean, free of loose material, and have no peeling paint. It is also recommended to roughen the surface slightly to promote adhesion. For older plaster, applying a base coat like a PVA emulsion or a specific bonding agent or primer is crucial. This step makes the existing plaster less porous and ensures the new and old layers adhere properly for a smooth, long-lasting finish.
The Chambers, AZ homeowners’ guide to plaster repairs
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Venetian plaster can add depth and texture to your aesthetic. Learn how much Venetian plaster costs based on factors like square footage and whether you hire a pro to help.
You can find plaster walls in a lot of older homes. What’s behind these walls—whether that’s lath or calcimine—can have an impact on how long they last. Finding out the age of your house can help you determine what you’re dealing with.
