Get matched with top plaster repair specialists in El Rito, NM

Skimming is covering drywall with a layer of drywall compound after installation or to smooth old walls. Plastering is covering walls with a mixture of gypsum or lime, cement or sand, and water. Plastering is more costly and labor-intensive than skim coating. Some homeowners and professionals refer to skim coating as plastering, even though the material spread over the wall is totally different.

Professionals diagnose underlying causes, such as structural shifts or moisture problems, and apply appropriate solutions like reinforcement, patching, or sealing. These measures restore wall integrity and prevent recurrence, ensuring long-term stability.

Smaller is better when patching holes with spackle. Any holes wider than four to six inches in diameter tend to be too wide to repair with spackle alone. You'll likely want to patch bigger holes with a drywall panel. 

Even holes measuring up to 6 inches may be challenging to fill with spackle alone. For best results, purchase a wall repair patch made from wire mesh. Cut the patch to fit over the hole, then use the spackle to hold it in place. Apply the spackle over the patch as you would for a smaller hole.

Drywall can be better than plaster if you’re installing a new wall and want to keep costs low. It’s much cheaper than installing plaster and provides a smooth, uniform surface. Many homeowners simply paint over the drywall or add a texture like sand or orange peel. It’s also much easier to DIY than plaster, and if you need to change your layout, it’s much easier to remove.