How to grout plaster

Plaster grouting is an essential step in creating even, smooth walls. Plaster grouting done correctly guarantees a long-lasting, polished finish, whether you’re working on new construction or remodeling an older area.

Although this process appears simple, it actually calls for careful attention to detail and the appropriate methods. You can steer clear of common pitfalls and prepare a surface for painting or wallpapering by taking the proper procedures.

We’ll walk you through each crucial grouting plaster step in this post, so you can get the best results for your walls.

How to properly grout walls

Expert artisans are aware that finishing will be simpler to complete if the wall is plastered as thoroughly as possible. You can do everything well if you handle everything yourself.

They typically use wide spatulas for their work because, even with extremely careful application, tiny irregularities and drips will still show up on the surface as a reminder of the spatula’s sharp corners.

Note: Another rule is that the wall needs to be completely dry for at least a day before you begin polishing for optimal results.

Choosing the right tool

The walls are sanded or grouted after they have dried and puttied, but before they are primed. The quality of the work will depend on the tool used to grout the plaster, so since this is a mechanical task, it must be chosen carefully. Let’s examine grout plastering in more detail.

Making the proper decision will save you time and energy:

  • In the case where the wall surface is small, it makes sense to use a sanding bar.
  • If the wall area is large, you can use an electric surface grinder, but in this case you will have to process the corners manually.
  • Perhaps the wall has a large area and, at the same time, a complex surface with protrusions or bends. A powerful eccentric grinder will do the best job here.

Note: Every grouting tool’s surface needs to be perfectly smooth. Not even minor dings are permitted.

Sanding block

This is a base that has sandpaper or sanding mesh fixed to it via a handle with clamps. Make sure you have a small supply of sandpaper before you begin work, as worn sheets need to be replaced right away. When the mesh’s canvas wears out, it should be replaced.

How would one go about finding out? This moment has probably arrived when you feel that the previous effect has vanished while sanding the surface.

  • The greatest preference in work is given to a sanding mesh, because it does not wear out as quickly as paper, and it is not as afraid of putty dust. When sanding, dust does not linger in the holes of the mesh. Therefore, despite the higher price, it is recommended to use it. Before the sale, the mesh is cut to the size of the timber, therefore, when going to the store, determine what size sanding mesh you need.
  • Sandpaper has to be changed frequently, so the savings will be small. When buying, choose paper in rolls or large sheets so that you can cut it yourself for your sanding block.

Remember to always leave a few millimeters extra to slide under the block’s clamps.

  • What kind of sandpaper do you need? Determine this experimentally by trying small pieces of different grain sizes on the wall. Paper that is too smooth will immediately fail, and paper that is too rough will not provide the desired quality of processing.
  • Depending on what you plan to cover the walls with in the future, the quality of its surface sanding may be different. If it is being prepared for painting, then it is necessary to polish it several times. First, roughly polish it with sandpaper with a grain size of 60. Such paper should remove the most visible particles from the surface being processed. After that, take paper or sanding mesh with grain size from 100 to 120. They will help to give the surface an ideal smoothness.

Attention: You can omit the second sanding if you intend to wallpaper the wall.

Using a sanding machine

It has a clear benefit of its own in terms of time and effort savings. There is no comparison for the quality of the treated surface—it is simply superior.

Another benefit is the absence of dust. Because of the unique holder design of modern machines, you can work for extended periods of time without experiencing fatigue.

  • And there are machines with a retractable work surface. They allow you to work on remote areas of the wall.
  • They also vary in their power. The instructions say this. The higher this indicator, the more it can work without overheating.

You can perform fine processing of complex surfaces, like corners or niches, by creating a custom device on your own. You will need a piece of plastic that is about 7 centimeters wide in order to accomplish this.

After that, you’ll need to cut a suitable-sized piece of plastic profile. To give this "mini-grater" gadget the shape of a pencil, you now need to use double-sided tape to attach sandpaper with varying grain sizes to the back of it and trim the corners. Working with a corner requires you to cut (sharpen) it as it becomes worn out.

How to protect your apartment from dust

Make sure the fine dust that invariably accumulates during wall sanding does not enter the rest of the apartment before you begin finishing up.

  • To do this, buy protective polyethylene film for furniture and carefully wrap everything that remains in the room, be sure to secure the film with tape. Cover the window openings with the same film, securing it along the entire length and width.
  • Hang a towel soaked in water on the front door, put the same towel under the threshold, and close the door gap with another one.
  • Take care of yourself too: work in special glasses and a mask. Before washing work clothes, shake them out thoroughly.
Step Description
1. Prepare Tools Gather all necessary tools like a trowel, sponge, and bucket of water.
2. Mix Grout Prepare the grout mix according to the instructions until it"s smooth and free of lumps.
3. Apply Grout Spread the grout evenly across the plaster surface using a trowel.
4. Smooth Surface Use a damp sponge to smooth the grout, removing excess and ensuring a flat finish.
5. Let Dry Allow the grout to dry completely before painting or adding a finish.

Plaster grouting is an essential step in giving your walls a level and smooth surface. You can lay a solid base for later finishes such as paint or wallpaper by carefully applying the grout and making sure it is evenly distributed.

The way your walls turn out in the end can be greatly improved by taking the time to properly mix, apply, and let dry the grout. A properly grouted surface improves the plaster’s durability and gives off a more polished appearance.

When grouting plaster, using the proper techniques can yield excellent results, regardless of experience level. A polished and durable finish is achievable with perseverance and close attention to detail.

Plaster grouting is an essential step in wall finishing that guarantees an even and smooth surface that is prepared for painting or wallpapering. This procedure entails repairing any flaws, gaps, or cracks in the plaster to produce a flawless finish that improves the appearance and longevity of your walls. Even if you’re doing it yourself, you can still get results that are of a professional caliber if you use the right tools and techniques.

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Dmitry Stepanov

Professional decorator with 10 years of experience. I know everything about renovating apartments, houses and offices. I will be happy to share my knowledge and experience with you.

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