Get matched with top plaster repair specialists in Winnsboro, TX

All plaster walls will crack over time with expansion and contraction from temperature and moisture changes, as well as from normal house settling. In these cases, the cracks will usually be thin and don’t mean there are major structural issues. However, excessive cracking, wide wall cracks, and cracks that span around corners can sometimes mean you have a foundation issue. Identifying severe problems is a key reason why hiring a professional for plaster repair is usually a good idea.

You can skim coat plaster, but it’s better to repair the plaster itself. A skim coat is a thin coat of drywall joint compound spread over the surface of a wall. The result is a flat finish that looks pleasing, but part of the appeal of plaster is its imperfections and aesthetic. Skim coating is best when limited to drywall applications.

Small hairline cracks in plaster walls are not serious and are mostly cosmetic, but larger or widespread cracks indicate structural problems that need repair. 

• Cracks 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) or thinner: Cosmetic cracks you can repair if desired.

• Cracks wider than 0.5 centimeters or widespread cracks: Structural repair is needed, either DIY or by a pro.

• Cracks 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) or wider: Contact a plaster repair professional.

Watch for large, deep cracks, multiple cracks in the same area, and cracks along the walls where they meet the ceiling. Repair these cracks to prevent further damage.

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.