Are cracks in plaster walls serious?

• <div><p>All plaster walls will crack over time due to normal house settling and expansion and contraction from temperature and moisture changes. Small, thin hairline cracks are generally not serious and are mostly a cosmetic issue. However, larger or more significant cracks can indicate structural problems.</p><p>Here's how to tell the difference:</p><ul><li><p><b>Cosmetic Cracks:</b> Cracks that are 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) or thinner are typically cosmetic.</p></li><li><p><b>Structural Cracks:</b> Cracks wider than 0.5 cm, excessive or deep cracks, multiple cracks in the same area, or cracks that span around corners can signify a structural or foundation issue. Cracks along the joints where walls meet the ceiling also warrant attention.</p></li></ul><p>For cracks wider than 0.5 cm, structural repair is needed. If a crack is 2.5 cm (1 inch) or wider, or if you notice any signs of a structural problem, it is best to contact a plaster repair professional to assess the damage.</p></div>

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Q: What are the differences between plaster and drywall, and which is better?

• <div><p>Both plaster and drywall are durable wall finishes, but they differ significantly in installation, cost, performance, and aesthetics.</p><p><b>Installation &amp; Cost:</b> Drywall installation is faster and more affordable, typically costing $1.50 to $3 per square foot. It uses premade sheets, making it a more accessible DIY project. Plastering is a labor-intensive craft that requires specialized skills, pushing costs to $2 to $10 per square foot. It involves applying a wet paste over a lath framework.</p><p><b>Durability &amp; Performance:</b> Plaster is generally more durable, longer-lasting, and provides superior soundproofing. It is also a better insulator, which can help reduce energy costs. Drywall is easier to remove for future renovations.</p><p><b>Aesthetics:</b> Drywall provides a smooth, uniform surface ready for paint or texture. Plaster offers a high-end, naturally textured look that can hide imperfections and is often preferred for achieving a classic or historic aesthetic.</p><p><b>Which is better?</b> The choice depends on your priorities. Drywall is ideal for those prioritizing a lower upfront cost, faster installation, and DIY potential. Plaster is the better option for a higher-end project where durability, soundproofing, and a unique, premium finish are more important than the initial cost.</p></div>

Q: How much does plastering a wall cost?

• <div><p>Applying plaster to a wall will usually cost between <b>$2 and $10</b> <b>per square foot</b> for both the material and labor. The cost will vary based on the quality of the plaster you&rsquo;re using and whether or not prep work is required before the work begins. Wall prep can add up to about 10% to your total costs. Plastering exterior walls can be more expensive in many cases because they are taller and require scaffolding and safety equipment.</p></div>

Q: Is a sagging plaster ceiling dangerous?

• <div><p>The short answer is yes, a sagging plaster ceiling is dangerous. Sagging plaster on a wall is something you should fix immediately, but it isn&rsquo;t a major concern. If the same type of sagging occurs on a ceiling, however, you could be in danger of your ceiling falling in large chunks. When plaster sags, it loses its strength and ability to hold itself up. The bonds that hold it together are strong, though, so if a sagging area falls, it will take large pieces down with it. </p></div>

Q: How do you bring drywall mud back to life?

• <div><p>If your premixed drywall mud is dried out or has begun to set in the bucket, you may be able to revive it by adding warm water and stirring. However, the first and most important step is to scrape off any hard, dried bits of drywall that may have accumulated toward the top of the container and throw them away because they will not easily reconstitute back into the drywall mud mix.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Plaster Repair pros in Soledad, CA

*The Angi rating for Plaster Repair companies in Soledad, 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 Soledad, 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 April 12, 2026

Reviewed in April 2026
Wowwww . We haven't had our dryer vent cleaned in years. Our technician, Nasir, was professional, courteous, knowledgeable and explained the process along the way. He showed us, on camera, the horrible backup. Reasonably priced, quick and various forms of payment accepted. We've already...
Najafzade Services
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Reviewed in July 2024
I recently had the pleasure of working with Miguel on several home improvement projects, and I cannot speak highly enough of his skills, professionalism, and dedication. Miguel undertook a range of tasks, including plumbing under the house, replacing the water heater, fencing, a bathroom...
Galvans Maintenance and Hauling
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Reviewed in October 2021
He was doing great and doing extra things. I paid him 3,200.00 for materials and he said he ordered them in July they were supposed to be delivered 08/02/21. He contacted me and said they were on back order, communicated thru 09/13/21. I have not heard from him since. I called Home Depot and...
Goodell Co
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Reviewed in October 2020
Very good. He found the problem and repair it the sprinkler.
Silverstone Landscaping & Tree Service
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Reviewed in October 2020
The repair was competently performed but the service was postponed without notice. I had to call and remind them of our appointment.
Drain Guru Plumbing Services inc
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Reviewed in January 2019
Never in 20 years, living in this house, have I ever had a plumber travel from Monterey, CA, to do plumbing work on a house in Gonzales, CA. I was amazed that any plumber would come to Gonzales, CA, after 20 years of repeated negative experiences. Repaired the kitchen sink faucet. Replaced two...
Legacy Plumbing And Heating
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Reviewed in November 2018
Mike's Home Maintenance Plumbing And Drain Repairs did a great job.
Mike's Home Maintenance Plumbing And Drain Repairs - Unlicensed Contractor
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Reviewed in August 2017
I would use this company again. We have actually used them for several other repairs and things.
Bell Brothers Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in August 2016
Responded quickly with phone calls to find out what the job was and made an appointment for the same day. He called again to let me know when he would arrive. The repair job was diagnosed, completed in a reasonable amount of time and cleaned up. The electrician was professional and...
Apex Electric, Inc.
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Reviewed in May 2014
<p>We contacted Scudder Roofing to do repairs or replace a roof on a rental we had. They came and did the measurements and then left. I believe we were expecting the estimate either by email or mailed to us. I think it was one week later that we hired someone else to do the job. Later we...
Scudder Roofing
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Find Plaster repair specialists in Soledad

Guerras Lathing & Plastering

5.0(

)

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

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Patch a window with waterproof and acrylic stucco. Amazing work"

Response time8 hrs

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OHMS Handyman Services

3.6(

)

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

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1992

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"I am quite happy with the electrical outlet and the bathroom fan, and I would hire him back for electrical work, as I think that is his specialty. His carpentry skills aren't the greatest, but they are not bad either. The first thing I asked was for the medicine cabinet to be centered over the sink, and it is about 1 inch off. At least it is hung level, though! The other disappointment was that he reused my 28-year old hinges and door knob on the new door. Also that the door frame was not cut correctly on one side and is about 2 inches short on one side. This could have been fixed easily by cutting a small piece of the extra wood that was left in my garbage. At least the door seems to be hung properly, though, so it was not a bad job, just not the greatest for the price.
"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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JGM PLASTERING

New to Angi

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

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated company with over 8 years of experience. We value honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of Plaster and Stucco services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!\n

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Faster plaster Inc

New to Angi

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

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

Faster plaster Inc. locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. Our services are customized to the individual project, paying close attention to the details of each project that we're involved with. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guaranteeing your satisfaction!

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Top Level Plastering

New to Angi

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

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

With over 14 years of experience serving the Fresno area, Top Level Plastering is your solution for all your Plastering, Drywall and Painting needs. We take great pride in our extreme professionalism, timeliness and superior customer service on every job. We make sure to develop a lasting relationship so that the next time service is needed there will be no question on who to call. Call us today! Satisfaction guaranteed.

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Langarica Plastering Inc

New to Angi

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Install - For Business

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Based in Los Banos, CA, and serving clients statewide, we specialize in decorative plastering, Venetian plaster, and stucco work. Our commitment to quality ...\nTransforming spaces with plastering techniques. Specializing in Venetian plaster, Tadelakt, lime wash 669-300-2021 [email protected].\ncheck zelle cash

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Luengas Lath & Plaster

New to Angi

Plaster - Install - For BusinessPlaster - RepairPlaster - Repair - For Business

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Response time4 days

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Guzman & Sons Drywall

New to Angi

Plaster - Install

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

A Drywall, Taping, and metal framing Contractor with specialization on Commercial, Residential, New Construction, Multifamily, Tennant Improvement, Health, Schools, Renovation, ADU.\n\nMetal framing, suspended ceilings, ACT, Drywall, Taping, Texture, Exterior Gyp, fire rated assemblies. \n

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Jauregui Drywall - Unlicensed Contractor

1.5(

)

Plaster - Repair

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

At Jauregui Drywall we do our best to ensure that every customer is taken care of to the fullest. No matter what the job entails we are there to serve and we are always prompt. Give us a call today and let us serve you!

Response time10 hrs

Serving Soledad, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2001

Free estimates

At Idependent Services, we sustain our company on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all of our projects. We are experts in our trade and we will always keep you educated on your particular task or project. Call us today!

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Showing 1-10 of 11

Plaster Repair questions, answered by experts

Both plaster and drywall are durable wall finishes, but they differ significantly in installation, cost, performance, and aesthetics.

Installation & Cost: Drywall installation is faster and more affordable, typically costing $1.50 to $3 per square foot. It uses premade sheets, making it a more accessible DIY project. Plastering is a labor-intensive craft that requires specialized skills, pushing costs to $2 to $10 per square foot. It involves applying a wet paste over a lath framework.

Durability & Performance: Plaster is generally more durable, longer-lasting, and provides superior soundproofing. It is also a better insulator, which can help reduce energy costs. Drywall is easier to remove for future renovations.

Aesthetics: Drywall provides a smooth, uniform surface ready for paint or texture. Plaster offers a high-end, naturally textured look that can hide imperfections and is often preferred for achieving a classic or historic aesthetic.

Which is better? The choice depends on your priorities. Drywall is ideal for those prioritizing a lower upfront cost, faster installation, and DIY potential. Plaster is the better option for a higher-end project where durability, soundproofing, and a unique, premium finish are more important than the initial cost.

All plaster walls will crack over time due to normal house settling and expansion and contraction from temperature and moisture changes. Small, thin hairline cracks are generally not serious and are mostly a cosmetic issue. However, larger or more significant cracks can indicate structural problems.

Here's how to tell the difference:

Cosmetic Cracks: Cracks that are 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) or thinner are typically cosmetic.
Structural Cracks: Cracks wider than 0.5 cm, excessive or deep cracks, multiple cracks in the same area, or cracks that span around corners can signify a structural or foundation issue. Cracks along the joints where walls meet the ceiling also warrant attention.

For cracks wider than 0.5 cm, structural repair is needed. If a crack is 2.5 cm (1 inch) or wider, or if you notice any signs of a structural problem, it is best to contact a plaster repair professional to assess the damage.

Applying plaster to a wall will usually cost between $2 and $10 per square foot for both the material and labor. The cost will vary based on the quality of the plaster you’re using and whether or not prep work is required before the work begins. Wall prep can add up to about 10% to your total costs. Plastering exterior walls can be more expensive in many cases because they are taller and require scaffolding and safety equipment.

The short answer is yes, a sagging plaster ceiling is dangerous. Sagging plaster on a wall is something you should fix immediately, but it isn’t a major concern. If the same type of sagging occurs on a ceiling, however, you could be in danger of your ceiling falling in large chunks. When plaster sags, it loses its strength and ability to hold itself up. The bonds that hold it together are strong, though, so if a sagging area falls, it will take large pieces down with it.

If your premixed drywall mud is dried out or has begun to set in the bucket, you may be able to revive it by adding warm water and stirring. However, the first and most important step is to scrape off any hard, dried bits of drywall that may have accumulated toward the top of the container and throw them away because they will not easily reconstitute back into the drywall mud mix.

The Soledad, 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 10, 2026Jul 10, 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
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 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.