Get matched with top plaster repair specialists in Berthold, ND

Repairing plaster walls or ceilings is almost always worthwhile. It restores the appearance of your home, and if it's an exterior wall, the repair can improve curb appeal and provide a great return on investment when selling. Plaster repairs can also reinforce the wall, preventing minor cracks from spreading, and improve your home’s energy efficiency by fixing gaps in the insulative material, potentially lowering your heating and cooling bills. Additionally, hiring a professional allows them to check if the damage is from a serious underlying issue, such as foundation instability. Catching a problem like this early could save you thousands.

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.

Depending on how much adhesive was used as well as the strength of the adhesive, you may have some drywall damage when removing a mirror. You can typically repair most drywall damage if it’s small by sanding the damaged area, applying spackle to smooth the damaged section so it’s flush with the rest of the wall, and repainting the area.

Yes, you can install drywall over plaster, but there are important factors to consider. While it can create a smooth, flat surface, it is often not the best approach. Installing drywall over plaster will increase the wall's thickness, which can cause issues with existing window and door frames that may no longer fit. You might also need to adjust power outlets to keep them accessible. A better, though more expensive, option is to remove the old plaster and lath entirely before installing new drywall. Drywalling directly over plaster seals in the old material, and if any problems arise later, you will need to remove both layers down to the structural beams for repairs. Given the potential complications, this job is best handled by professionals.