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Plaster ceilings can sag for several reasons. In some cases, the plaster and other building materials shift and come apart over time, which is why you’ll commonly find drooping plaster ceilings in older homes. Improper installation, foot traffic, and water damage—often from a leaky roof or a broken pipe—can also cause plaster ceilings to sag.

It's generally recommended to hang drywall on the ceiling first before moving on to the walls. This sequence allows the ceiling sheets to provide support for the vertical wall sheets. By attaching the ceiling drywall initially, you establish a solid framework to align and attach the wall panels accurately. This method ensures a seamless and sturdy connection between the ceiling and walls, resulting in a more professional finish.

Venetian plaster is a highly durable wall finish that becomes a rock-like substance once dried, making it last longer than most other wall finishes. Its lifespan can range from decades to centuries, potentially lasting a lifetime. Key factors influencing its longevity include the quality of the initial application, whether it's properly sealed against moisture, and how the wall is maintained and treated (e.g., how often it is touched or bumped). Due to its mineral content, it can also develop a patina over time.

Plastering and skimming are two different techniques for finishing walls. Plastering involves applying a thick layer of a plaster mixture—typically containing gypsum, lime, cement, sand, and water—to create a new surface. This process often requires multiple coats and is used for repairing significant damage or creating decorative textures. Skimming, on the other hand, is a technique that involves applying a thin layer of drywall compound or joint compound over an existing surface to smooth it out, covering minor imperfections, small cracks, or uneven textures for a polished look. Plastering is generally more costly and labor-intensive than skimming. Although some people use the terms interchangeably, they refer to different processes and materials.