Top-rated plaster repair specialists.

Get matched with top plaster repair specialists in Austin, UT

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your plaster repair project in Austin, UT?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Plaster Repair pros in Austin, UT

*The Angi rating for Plaster Repair companies in Austin, UT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Plaster Repair needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Plaster Repair companies in Austin, UT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Plaster Repair needs.

Last update on January 26, 2025

Find Plaster repair specialists in Austin

Plaster Repair questions, answered by experts

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.

The short answer is yes, a sagging plaster ceiling is dangerous. Sagging plaster on a wall is something you should fix immediately, but it isn’t a major concern. If the same type of sagging occurs on a ceiling, however, you could be in danger of your ceiling falling in large chunks. When plaster sags, it loses its strength and ability to hold itself up. The bonds that hold it together are strong, though, so if a sagging area falls, it will take large pieces down with it.

While it is possible to repair minor plaster cracks or holes yourself, it is generally not recommended for larger jobs or if you want a professional result. Plaster repair can be difficult in practice; proper wall preparation and achieving a smooth, seamless finish that blends with the existing wall requires experience, especially on textured surfaces. Hiring a professional ensures the repair will be durable and last longer, potentially saving you money over time. A pro can also determine if the cracks are from normal expansion or a more serious underlying issue.

Many services include repainting to match the existing surface. Confirm with your provider.

Although they have similar applications, spackle and joint compound are not the same. Their primary differences lie in their composition, consistency, and ideal use cases.

Spackle is composed of gypsum and binding agents, making it thicker than joint compound. It dries quickly and is easy to sand, which makes it ideal for small wall repair projects like filling nail holes or patching minor damage.

Joint compound, also known as drywall mud, consists of limestone and gypsum. It is primarily used for large-scale projects, such as taping and finishing the seams on newly installed drywall. It tends to shrink more than spackle and can be more difficult to spread.

While both products can be used to fill small depressions and cracks, spackle cannot replace joint compound for taping and mudding new drywall. Conversely, you can often use joint compound for small patching jobs typically done with spackle.

The Austin, UT homeowners’ guide to plaster repairs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles