High-quality decorative details and handmade finishes are two of the vital elements which can give your old house a unique character. Even if the plasterwork has developed a few flaws over time, replacing them with inferior materials won’t be a wise decision. One of the primary benefits of having plaster decorations is that they are easy to maintain which makes them worth preserving. But taking care of the plasterwork in an old house is a bit challenging. The best you can do is to hire a plasterer. A majority of them have years of experience in the field and can share a few maintenance tips.
What Is Plaster?
You can take better care of the plaster decorations if you enhance your knowledge about plaster. It is a very ancient material widely used by Egyptians. The plasterwork seen in 19th and 20th century houses reflected one’s social status. A homeowner was considered to be wealthy if there were more ornate in the plasterwork. A few changes were made in its composition over the years. The material used nowadays has a large amount of Plaster of Paris or Gypsum.
Why Do You Need A Plasterer?
Plasterers apply it by hand so you can get a hard finish which can last for years. Hire the right person for the job and you don’t have to worry about the structure getting cracked or damaged by water. It won’t even separate from the underlying material. You can include ornamental, decorative or architectural plasterwork over flat plaster walls or ceilings. A majority of the plasterers in Hampshire have years of industry presence.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Plaster?
Though modern drywall has an appeal of their own, there are more benefits of using plaster. The latter provides better fireproofing, insulation and soundproofing. You don’t have to worry about the development of mould. Maintaining plasterwork is more cost-effective than replacing it. Homeowners looking for long term appeal of their interiors can choose plasterwork. High-quality materials can improve the interior space and its aesthetic appeal. Visit a room with quality plasterwork and it can uplift your mood. Even selling a property with decorative plasterwork is an easy task.
How To Take Care Of Plaster?
Though plasterwork doesn’t require much maintenance, there are a few tips you can follow to prevent them from cracking, peeling or falling apart. If you ever notice a crack or want to hide a nail hole, hire a plasterer or a painter. Skim coating might be necessary if there is extensive damage. Removed plaster and replacing it with drywall is a strict no-no! Not only will it make the space look small but also impact the look of adjacent details like window casings or mouldings.
Avoid Renovations Unless Necessary
If you think that renovating the plasterwork will help in increasing the value of the plaster and its original details, it’s high time you debunk the myth. Experienced plasterers know why a gut renovation is not necessary all the time. For someone not aware of the term, it is a process through which everything is removed down to the studs, including the lathe and plaster. As a result, you might end up losing all the mouldings, including the crown mouldings and the baseboards. This will damage the essence of an old house. If your objective is to refresh the tired finishes or upgrade the mechanicals, avoid a gut renovation.
Skim Coat The Plaster
Skim Coat is widely preferred by plasterers in and around Hampshire as it smoothes the surface of the ceilings and walls. How much you have to pay to skim coat plaster is dependent on the company you are approaching for the job. If you want top-quality skim coating, hiring a skilled plasterer is a must as they ensure a smooth, level, fine and durable finish. They even apply a thin layer of bonding material after completing the repair work.