What does water damage on a plaster ceiling look like?

• <div><p>Look for flaking paint or air bubbles that burst and then flake away. Paint will begin to flake after being exposed to minimal moisture or water, so it’s a good indicator of any water damage. If you notice your paint starting to flake, feel the plaster underneath to see if it is soft or damp.</p></div>

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Q: Can I use drywall primer on plasters?

• <div><p>Technically speaking, you can use drywall primer over plasters. However, oil-based primers work the most effectively on wall plasters. Meanwhile, water-based primers work just as well with drywalls. Nowadays, there are also universal primers suitable for drywall and plaster. Overall, you will be fine as long as you are using a trustworthy brand.</p></div>

Q: Do you sand plaster wet or dry?

• <div><p>While it&rsquo;s most common to sand plaster dry, it is possible to wet-sand plaster, too. Doing so can reduce the amount of plaster dust released into the air and make it easier to work in smaller, more delicate areas (such as around wall trim). However, some people find that wet sanding leads to more imperfections, which is why larger walls are more often dry sanded to ensure an even finish.</p></div>

Q: Can you put drywall directly on ceiling joists?

• <div><p>Drywall can be installed directly on ceiling joists. In fact, this method is common in many construction projects. Drywall sheets are attached to the joists using screws, ensuring a secure and stable installation. Before attaching the drywall, it's important to mark the joist locations on the ceiling, allowing for accurate screw placement. Proper spacing between screws and careful taping and mudding of joints are crucial to creating a smooth and flawless ceiling surface. If the joists are in good condition and level, installing drywall directly on them is a practical and efficient approach.</p></div>

Q: Are walls on the top floor load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor&rsquo;s foundation.</p></div>

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Crawford's Drywall

5.0(

)

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 1999

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Crawford's drywall has done many projects for us. Daryl does quality work and finishes drywall to perfection. The price is reasonable and we are always treated fair. I will be hiring Crawford's drywall without hesitation for all future drywall projects."

+31

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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D and L Commercial Roofing, LLC

4.9(

)

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Very professional. Wonderful to work with. We hired them to put an addition on our home. They did everything very well : foundation, building the rooms, putting in insulation, drywall, painting, flooring, windows, roofing, plumbing, framing doors and windows, ductwork. They even built raised flower bed structures to go around the outside of the new addition. They are a very talented and skilled company."

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by9%of homeowners

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Upfront fair prices, shows up when he says he will, does a great job with anything I ask him to do. Terrific handyman, no B.S. I'll continue to use him provided he's not overbooked, Ron seems popular!"

+16

Response time12 hrs

Recommended by90%of homeowners

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Chips Construction Services

New to Angi

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

I have been in the construction buisness for over 10 years. I am reliable and will give you the best quality and professional work. \n

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Dun Better Maintenance

New to Angi

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Hi I'm Todd starting Dun Better Maintenance not quit up and running to full par yet I'm a guy with 14 years handyman/property maintenance experience

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Jeff Williams Construction

New to Angi

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1987

Free estimates

With over 30 years experience, Jeff Williams has the knowledge and expertise for all of your commercial needs! We pride ourselves in quality work and pay close attention to details. Call us today for a free estimate!

Response time2 hrs

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Michael Gary Ottenbacher

New to Angi

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Book with us online or feel free to give us a call today!

+22

Response time1 day

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Done up

New to Angi

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

I’m a one-stop shop for all your maintenance needs, with a knack for tech and a wide range of skills in various trades. Nothing too big to tackle and nothing too simple I won’t accept. Not to mention I can promise to beat larger companies and there estimates every single time\n\n

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Danny Kinser

New to Angi

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

I am known to be able to fix most anything. If you need something fixed, I'm your man!

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Fry's Painting and Restoration

5.0(

)

Serving Moscow, MI and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

"Quick , profesional and detail oriented"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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...

Showing 1-10 of 86

Drywall questions, answered by experts

Technically speaking, you can use drywall primer over plasters. However, oil-based primers work the most effectively on wall plasters. Meanwhile, water-based primers work just as well with drywalls. Nowadays, there are also universal primers suitable for drywall and plaster. Overall, you will be fine as long as you are using a trustworthy brand.

While it’s most common to sand plaster dry, it is possible to wet-sand plaster, too. Doing so can reduce the amount of plaster dust released into the air and make it easier to work in smaller, more delicate areas (such as around wall trim). However, some people find that wet sanding leads to more imperfections, which is why larger walls are more often dry sanded to ensure an even finish.

Drywall can be installed directly on ceiling joists. In fact, this method is common in many construction projects. Drywall sheets are attached to the joists using screws, ensuring a secure and stable installation. Before attaching the drywall, it's important to mark the joist locations on the ceiling, allowing for accurate screw placement. Proper spacing between screws and careful taping and mudding of joints are crucial to creating a smooth and flawless ceiling surface. If the joists are in good condition and level, installing drywall directly on them is a practical and efficient approach.

Look for flaking paint or air bubbles that burst and then flake away. Paint will begin to flake after being exposed to minimal moisture or water, so it’s a good indicator of any water damage. If you notice your paint starting to flake, feel the plaster underneath to see if it is soft or damp.

Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor’s foundation.

The Moscow, MI homeowners’ guide to drywall services

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

See all articles

Lyle Hendriks
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Texture Drywall? [2026 Data]
Drywall texture can create an attractive finish and add dimension to your home’s walls. This guide breaks down the factors that influence the cost to texture drywall.
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•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Drywall Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
Installing drywall is the most common way to finish your home’s interior. Use this drywall installation cost guide to see what your project is likely to cost.
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•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Drywall Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Whether you want to spruce up a few dents and dings or fix a large surface area, investing in drywall repair costs can return your walls to a smooth, flush look.
Stacey L. Nash
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
Plaster vs. Drywall: Pros, Cons, and Costs
Understanding the plaster vs. drywall debate is key to giving your home’s walls the perfect finish. Learn more about the pros, cons, and costs with our advice.
Lauren Bongard
•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 2026
Sheetrock vs. Drywall: What’s the Difference?
The terms drywall and Sheetrock are often used interchangeably, but one is a brand and one is a specific product. Find out which one you need in this guide.
Paige Bennett
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Should Drywall Be Butt Up Against a Wall?
Thick gaps and extra joint compound can alter the look of drywall. So, should drywall be butt up against a wall? Review this guide for seamless installation.