Get matched with top plaster repair specialists in El Centro, CA

Q: What is the difference between spackle and joint compound, and which should I use for drywall repairs?

• <div><p>Although they have similar applications, spackle and joint compound are not the same. Their primary differences lie in their composition, consistency, and ideal use cases.</p><p>Spackle is composed of gypsum and binding agents, making it thicker than joint compound. It dries quickly and is easy to sand, which makes it ideal for small wall repair projects like filling nail holes or patching minor damage.</p><p>Joint compound, also known as drywall mud, consists of limestone and gypsum. It is primarily used for large-scale projects, such as taping and finishing the seams on newly installed drywall. It tends to shrink more than spackle and can be more difficult to spread.</p><p>While both products can be used to fill small depressions and cracks, spackle cannot replace joint compound for taping and mudding new drywall. Conversely, you can often use joint compound for small patching jobs typically done with spackle.</p></div>

Q: Is it difficult to DIY plaster?

• <div><p>Plaster can be a difficult DIY to master, especially if you plan to plaster an entire room, rather than patch a small area. Before you begin a plaster DIY project, you need to know which tools and type of plaster to use. It's also important to know how to prepare the surface and apply the plaster for a smooth finish. If that all sounds like a lot of work, you may prefer <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/repair-plaster/">hiring a local plaster repair contractor</a> to do the job.</p></div>

Q: Does plaster repair improve energy efficiency?

• <div><p>In most cases, plaster repair will <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/home-energy-efficiency-checklist.htm">improve your home&rsquo;s energy efficiency</a> because a solid barrier of the insulative material helps keep conditioned air inside your home. Major plaster repair jobs like repairing large cracks or crumbling sections of plaster or applying a skim coat might make a noticeable difference in your heating and cooling bills. Not only can plaster repairs improve efficiency, but they can also reduce strain on your HVAC equipment, potentially saving you money on maintenance and repairs.</p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of using plaster?

• <div><p>Plaster is a beautiful finish but is labor-intensive to install and remove. It&rsquo;s vulnerable to cracking and more sensitive to moisture variance than drywall. Installing plaster on a new wall is an expensive process that can take days to weeks, depending on the scope. Removing a plaster wall can also be quite expensive and time-consuming.</p></div>

Q: Is repainting part of the repair process for plaster surfaces?

• <div><p>Many services include repainting to match the existing surface. Confirm with your provider.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Plaster Repair pros in El Centro, CA

*The Angi rating for Plaster Repair companies in El Centro, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Plaster Repair needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Plaster Repair companies in El Centro, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Plaster Repair needs.

Last update on December 22, 2021

Reviewed in December 2021
Marcos responded to my request for service within an hour, scheduled an appointment for Wednesday morning, but was able coordinate and perform the repair on Tuesday, a full day earlier.
Hernandez Electrical Services
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Reviewed in December 2019
They were prompt and quickly located and repaired the leak.
J & A Plumbing, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2019
Mike listened to our frustration with a service contract where Sears failed to honor 3 out of 5 appointments. He drove in traffic after our conversation and diagnosed and fixed a washing machine we have been trying to have repaired for over a month with Sears. Mike was extremely knowledgeable...
ABA Appliance
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Reviewed in January 2015
<p>AHS assigned Sears as the contractor. Repairs failed and the contractor returned to our home a total of four times (08/20/14, 08/30/14, 09/05/14 and 09/15/14). The first time the washer stopped running after only three cycles. We called AHS, informed them we had serious medical issues...
American Home Shield – Home Warranty
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Reviewed in August 2013
I needed weekend repair service for my central a/c. The telephone rep was courteous and helpful. The repair tech, Mike, was prompt and professional and explained what was needed to the rep for my home warranty company when they wanted to know all the details on what was needed and what the cost...
Desert Air Conditioning
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Find Plaster repair specialists in El Centro

RuGax construction inc

New to Angi

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Repair

Serving El Centro, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

At RuGax Construction inc, we have over 30 years of experience in all types of remodeling, handyman, and construction work. We are dedicated to the highest level of workmanship and fair pricing, we look forward to serving you!

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Install - For BusinessPlaster - Repair+1 more

Serving El Centro, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They came out drained the pool 1 day and the next day they came out early acid washed the pool and replaced about 20 tiles. My pool has never looked better since I moved in 8 years ago. I use them for my pool service now and they have done a great job over the past few months. They also fixed my fence gate for free they said it was a safety issue and just fixed the latch. they said because the pool tech did it in less than 20 min there was no charge."

Recommended by50%of homeowners

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Three Gen Stucco

New to Angi

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Repair

Serving El Centro, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Three Gen Stucco is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Plaster Repair questions, answered by experts

Although they have similar applications, spackle and joint compound are not the same. Their primary differences lie in their composition, consistency, and ideal use cases.

Spackle is composed of gypsum and binding agents, making it thicker than joint compound. It dries quickly and is easy to sand, which makes it ideal for small wall repair projects like filling nail holes or patching minor damage.

Joint compound, also known as drywall mud, consists of limestone and gypsum. It is primarily used for large-scale projects, such as taping and finishing the seams on newly installed drywall. It tends to shrink more than spackle and can be more difficult to spread.

While both products can be used to fill small depressions and cracks, spackle cannot replace joint compound for taping and mudding new drywall. Conversely, you can often use joint compound for small patching jobs typically done with spackle.

Plaster can be a difficult DIY to master, especially if you plan to plaster an entire room, rather than patch a small area. Before you begin a plaster DIY project, you need to know which tools and type of plaster to use. It's also important to know how to prepare the surface and apply the plaster for a smooth finish. If that all sounds like a lot of work, you may prefer hiring a local plaster repair contractor to do the job.

In most cases, plaster repair will improve your home’s energy efficiency because a solid barrier of the insulative material helps keep conditioned air inside your home. Major plaster repair jobs like repairing large cracks or crumbling sections of plaster or applying a skim coat might make a noticeable difference in your heating and cooling bills. Not only can plaster repairs improve efficiency, but they can also reduce strain on your HVAC equipment, potentially saving you money on maintenance and repairs.

Plaster is a beautiful finish but is labor-intensive to install and remove. It’s vulnerable to cracking and more sensitive to moisture variance than drywall. Installing plaster on a new wall is an expensive process that can take days to weeks, depending on the scope. Removing a plaster wall can also be quite expensive and time-consuming.

Many services include repainting to match the existing surface. Confirm with your provider.

The El Centro, CA homeowners’ guide to plaster repairs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Deirdre Sullivan
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Plaster Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Plaster repair costs are determined by the size and type of damage. Discover why some fixes you can DIY and why some require a pro’s help.
Mizuki Hisaka
•
Jul 31, 2026Jul 31, 2026
How Much Does Plastering Cost? [2026 Data]
The cost of plastering walls and ceilings depends on the room size and ceiling height. Our tips can help you estimate an accurate cost.
Stephanie Mickelson
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Apply Venetian Plaster? [2026 Data]
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.
Angi
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire a Plaster Repair Professional
Finding a qualified plaster repair pro? Learn how to hire the right specialist, what questions to ask, and what to expect for your project.
Katy Willis
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
What Is Behind Your Lath and Plaster Walls?
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.
Jamie Cattanach
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Who Does Plaster Work and What Is Their Job Like?
Who does plaster work? A plasterer, of course—one who’s gone through years of training to master this subtle construction art. Here’s what you need to know.