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You can skim coat plaster, but it’s better to repair the plaster itself. A skim coat is a thin coat of drywall joint compound spread over the surface of a wall. The result is a flat finish that looks pleasing, but part of the appeal of plaster is its imperfections and aesthetic. Skim coating is best when limited to drywall applications.

You can take a few steps to save money on drywall installation, even when hiring a professional to do the bulk of the work for you. These ideas include the following:

• Buy the drywall and other materials yourself to avoid product markup and delivery fees

• Ask about discounts if you use the same company to tape, spackle, and paint

• Hire drywall professionals in the winter when demand is the lowest

• DIY as many parts of the project as possible, like replacing insulation and painting

Yes, you can mount a TV on plaster walls—as long as you attach it to the studs. Alternatively, you can use toggle bolts, molly bolts, or another type of hardware that’s strong enough to support a TV. 

If you aren’t comfortable with this type of project, you can hire a pro. The cost of mounting a TV to a plaster wall ranges from $25 to $600 (or more), depending on the TV’s weight, size, and other factors.

Ceiling-mounted curtains won’t damage the ceiling if they’re installed properly. Using the right anchors or securing the brackets into joists will ensure the curtain weight is properly supported and prevent damage. However, overtightening screws, using weak anchors, or repeatedly removing and reinstalling hardware in the same spot can cause cracking or sagging over time. In that case, you might have to call a pro for ceiling repair.