Although plastering concrete walls in your apartment may seem difficult, it is a task that can be successfully completed on your own with the appropriate tools and method. Knowing how to plaster correctly will save you time and money whether you’re finishing up a new space or remodeling an old one.
Selecting the best plaster is essential for a seamless, long-lasting finish. Plaster comes in a variety of forms, each ideal for a particular purpose. Knowing whether to use gypsum or another material can have a significant impact on the wall’s quality.
We’ll take you step-by-step through the entire process in this guide, from choosing the right plaster to becoming proficient with the methods required for a level surface. Even if this is your first time, you can still get professional results by following the correct procedures.
- Even walls are the merit of plaster
- Do I need to plaster concrete walls if they are even
- Existing technologies
- Which plaster is better for concrete walls
- Can gypsum plaster be applied to a concrete wall?
- What is the best way to plaster concrete walls in an apartment
- How to properly plaster a concrete wall with your own hands
- Tools
- Preparing the surface
- Work progress
- When can subsequent finishing work be carried out
Even walls are the merit of plaster
Navigating pages
The concrete base for the finishing material is smoothed and straightened by plaster. Surfaces gain more robustness and practical qualities.
In your apartment, plastering concrete walls is an easy do-it-yourself project that can make a big difference in the appearance and longevity of your area. The secret is to select the appropriate plaster: gypsum for a smooth finish in living areas, or cement-based for areas that are prone to moisture. The conditions of the room will determine if gypsum is required. By using the proper methods for leveling, applying, and mixing, you can achieve a professional finish without having to hire an expert.
Do I need to plaster concrete walls if they are even
Even if concrete enclosing structures appear flawless at first glance, they could still have imperfections like chips and potholes in them. Such flaws are hard to conceal with putty; the mistakes will show through when the material is finished. Plastering the base is therefore absolutely necessary. Furthermore, there is an improvement in sound insulation and thermal conductivity.
Existing technologies
Plastering concrete walls can be done both with and without beacon installation. The first option removes all defects and levels the area. This technology works well for interior design projects in residential buildings where smooth, vertical partitions must be created. While it won’t straighten the curvature, the second technology will conceal significant flaws. This is the method used to plaster non-residential spaces, such as garages and utility rooms, where aesthetics are not the primary concern.
Which plaster is better for concrete walls
Plaster compositions vary widely and are based on various factors.
For finishing concrete, any of the listed building mixtures is utilized. The decision is based on:
- purpose;
- external temperature conditions;
- drying time;
- degree of unevenness.
Cement mortars are the preferred choice for external finishing because they are stronger and more resistant to moisture than other compositions.
Can gypsum plaster be applied to a concrete wall?
As was previously mentioned, compositions based on gypsum powder can also be used with concrete. Although they have many benefits, they also have drawbacks. Plastering rooms with high humidity levels is prohibited with gypsum solutions. Furthermore, the coating is prone to damage. These factors restrict the composition’s potential uses.
What is the best way to plaster concrete walls in an apartment
Cement plaster is the most widely used finish for concrete bases in apartments when it comes to quality of result. Strength and durability are its key benefits. Besides these attributes, it possesses:
- moisture resistance;
- practicality;
- low cost;
- vapor permeability;
- thermal conductivity;
- sound insulation.
Among the drawbacks are:
- high specific gravity;
- complex application technology;
- time costs for finishing and subsequent drying.
How to properly plaster a concrete wall with your own hands
Without seeking expert assistance, you can fix the apartment’s walls’ curvature on your own. The most important things are to follow technology, acquire plenty of construction equipment, and select the appropriate composition.
Tools
Plastering accessories are widely available on the market. Here are the principal ones as listed:
- plastering mesh for a long-lasting result;
- guide rails that act as beacons;
- bucket and construction mixer for mixing the solution;
- trowel or spatula – paddles that are convenient for taking and applying the plaster mixture;
- square – a special wooden or metal spatula designed for applying plaster to corner areas;
- plastering hawk – a tray with a handle on which the solution is laid out;
- ladle – as an alternative to a trowel and hawk;
- rule – a flat metal or wooden strip to create an ideal surface;
- building level (spirit level) or level – devices for determining the value of the difference;
- float to give texture or a smooth surface.
Preparing the surface
Several preparatory steps should be taken prior to the plastering process:
- remove old finishes (paint, whitewash, wallpaper, tiles);
- eliminate defects (bumps and other convex irregularities);
- make notches with a hatchet or hammer, because.. for better adhesion of the material to the base, the surface should be rough;
- cut channels if communications are planned;
- get rid of dirt and dust on the wall by wiping it with a damp sponge or
- rinsing with a stream of water, and then drying;
- apply a thin layer of primer. After complete drying, the procedure must be repeated again.
It’s imperative to apply the primer evenly to avoid smudges. Otherwise, the flaws will be obvious to the unaided eye upon final finishing.
- lay electrical cables in the appropriate grooves;
- attach the plaster mesh to the wall with dowels.
Work progress
The installation of beacons, which are metal or wooden slats, marks the start of the plastering process. Verify their vertical position with a spirit level. Next, depending on the plaster’s composition, you should prepare the solution as directed by the instructions.
The first layer’s solution should have a liquid, porridge-like consistency. For the rest: dense, akin to dough.
Applying the "spray," or the first layer of plaster, is the next step. The solution should be thrown onto the moistened surface to be treated with sharp movements using a special ladle or a trowel and a falcon to fill the entire area. Keep thickness to a maximum of 5 mm; generally, remove excess. Permit the layer to air dry.
Afterwards, apply a second layer that is up to 10 mm thick. Essentially, the process is repeated, but this time, spreading and throwing of the solution are permitted. Generally speaking, the base needs to be leveled, extending from bottom to top along the beacons.
The application of the third layer, or "covering," which is up to 2 mm thick, follows. Next, use specialized tools to plaster the inner and outer corners. Then, while the previous layer is still somewhat wet, carefully remove the beacons and use putty to fill in their traces individually.
The final step is grouting, which involves using a float to smooth or texture the surface. When the final layer has solidified but hasn’t had time to dry, this needs to be done.
When can subsequent finishing work be carried out
Finishing work on the wall should not be done until the base has dried completely.
Applying a primer and waiting for it to dry completely—which should take a day or so—is necessary for good adhesion.
The next step is to apply putty in two layers. The coating needs to dry entirely. Once everything has been completed, move on to the decorative material facing:
- gluing;
- painting;
- laying tiles;
- whitewashing.
The best and most efficient method for eliminating flaws and irregularities is plastering. Beautiful walls are essential for a quality fix.
| Step | Description |
| Choosing the plaster | Use cement-based plaster for areas with moisture. Gypsum plaster is great for dry rooms due to its smooth finish and fast setting time. |
| Preparing the wall | Clean the concrete surface thoroughly, removing any dust, dirt, or loose particles. Apply a primer to ensure better adhesion. |
| Mixing the plaster | Follow the manufacturer"s instructions to mix the plaster. Ensure the consistency is smooth but thick enough to adhere to the wall without dripping. |
| Applying the plaster | Start from the bottom and work your way up, using a trowel to spread the plaster evenly. Apply in thin layers to avoid cracking. |
| Leveling the surface | After applying the plaster, use a straightedge to level it. Move the straightedge in a zigzag pattern to even out the surface. |
| Finishing touches | Once the plaster is dry, sand the surface lightly for a smooth finish. If needed, apply a second coat and repeat the leveling process. |
In your apartment, plastering concrete walls can be a satisfying do-it-yourself project that improves the look and feel of the room. Selecting the proper plaster type is essential to getting a glossy, long-lasting finish. Although gypsum plaster is widely used because it is simple to apply and dries quickly, other solutions might be more appropriate for your particular requirements, depending on the state of your walls and the desired finish.
Accurate wall leveling is essential for a polished appearance. It will go more smoothly and effectively if you use a leveling technique appropriate for both your skill level and the state of your walls. You can achieve an immaculate surface that is prepared for painting or wallpapering with the appropriate tools and methods.
You can enhance the appearance of your apartment and prolong the life of your walls by taking the time to properly prepare them and choose the best plaster for your requirements. Plastering your concrete walls can be an effective and fulfilling do-it-yourself project if you have the patience and attention to detail needed.
