Question 1

Does mounting a TV damage the wall?

Accepted Answer

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You will be placing holes in the wall to hang the mounting bracket. If you’re mounting a large TV, the bolts in use could make significant holes around half an inch in diameter. Other than a few holes, though, the process of mounting the TV should not cause significant damage to the wall, unless you make an error and miss the wall stud, tearing out drywall. Should you decide to remove the mount later, the DIY drywall repair cost for a small hole usually is $10 to $30. It’s a repair you can do in a few minutes.

Question 2

How long does plaster take to dry?

Accepted Answer

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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.

Question 3

How many years does plaster last?

Accepted Answer

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Depending on the quality of the plaster and the moisture in the building, plaster can last over 100 years in some cases. It may develop cracks in some places, but many find it aesthetically appealing. As long as no structural damage affects the plaster and maintenance is being performed—mainly repairing small patches and addressing water damage—plaster can last a long time.

Question 4

Can I repair plaster ceilings myself?

Accepted Answer

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You can repair plaster ceilings yourself after the cause of the ceiling damage has been addressed. However, the repair can easily take 5 hours and can be slightly challenging for those without previous experience. If you do decide to flex your DIY muscle, have a helper to help hold the ladder and pass you the tools for safety purposes.

Question 5

Is it worth it to repair plaster walls?

Accepted Answer

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Repairing plaster walls is almost always worthwhile. Not only will plaster repairs make your walls look new again, but repairs of minor cracks can often reinforce the plaster and help prevent the cracks from spreading and widening. Additionally, hiring a professional to carry out plaster wall repair means they can let you know if the cracking is a result of a severe underlying issue. Catching a problem like foundation instability early could save you thousands, a luxury you wouldn’t have if you just repaired the walls yourself.