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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.

While it is possible to repair minor plaster cracks or holes yourself, it is generally not recommended for larger jobs or if you want a professional result. Plaster repair can be difficult in practice; proper wall preparation and achieving a smooth, seamless finish that blends with the existing wall requires experience, especially on textured surfaces. Hiring a professional ensures the repair will be durable and last longer, potentially saving you money over time. A pro can also determine if the cracks are from normal expansion or a more serious underlying issue.

Drying alone can take 1 to 4 hours to dry to the touch per plaster layer, but some types of plaster take several hours longer to dry. However, this doesn’t mean the job is done because plaster doesn’t fully harden until it cures, which can take a few days to a couple of weeks. It may take even longer if you’re building a new, pretty thick plaster wall. Allow the plaster to cure before painting it.

The tool you use to sand plaster will depend on the size of the project. If you’re just working on a small section of your wall to get rid of an uneven spot on the surface, hand-sanding might work. However, for larger projects, a drywall sander can make a huge difference when it comes to both time and elbow grease—and an orbital sander can help for detailed areas such as around ceiling fans.