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Whether to repair or replace water-damaged plaster depends on the scale of the damage. For small, limited areas, you can often perform a repair yourself. If you choose to paint over small patches, ensure the surface is completely dry and apply a coat of antifungal primer first to prevent mold growth. However, simply painting or plastering over the damage is only a temporary solution that doesn't address the core problem. For more extensive or long-term damage, the plaster may be compromised, and there is a risk of mold. In these cases, it is recommended to remove the damaged section of plasterboard and replace it. You may consider hiring a professional for the repair, and it's worth noting that water damage is often covered by home insurance.

A post-drywall inspection could uncover many problems that weren’t present during the pre-drywall inspection, including insufficient insulation, missing weather stripping, improperly installed plumbing and lighting fixtures, flooring damage, drywall damage, plumbing leaks, aesthetic issues, and more. Structural problems, which are often expensive to fix and are common reasons to walk away after a home inspection, are easier to see before the drywall goes up, but a post-drywall inspection may highlight minor issues with house settling and foundation problems.

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.

Some painters will repair minor drywall damage. For repair work of any kind, it’s a good idea to hire the professional required for the job. Many painters will have the materials on hand and can add them to the total cost. While you may save some money, there is a chance the work will be subpar compared to a professional who specializes in drywall.