At Gypsumtools we not only provide equipment and supplies for professional plasterers, but we’re also the first port of call for any DIY enthusiasts out there. If you’ve got a plastering job on the cards and are new to the game, you may be wondering what Materials are needed for plastering?
You could have already decided on whether it’s wet plaster or drylining that you need, because both have pros and cons. While wet plaster is the traditional method that offers better sound proofing and it’s easier to fix things to when its done, it takes a lot longer to dry than drylining, meaning that a drylining plastering job will be quicker all round.
But once you’ve made that decision, what materials will you need for your plastering job? Here are some pointers:
Plaster – When you’ve decided on wet plaster for the job, working out which plaster best suits your needs is a good place to start. Plaster is one of the oldest building materials used by man and was originally used centuries ago in primitive mud form, to hold buildings together.
These days it’s predominantly used to repair damaged walls or provide a smooth surface on interior walls and ceilings ready for decoration and the majority of plaster is cement based or gypsum based. Have a look at our gypsum based plaster and choose from our setting compound or jointing compound for drywall systems, or our Thistle multi-finish which will provide a smooth high quality surface on a wide range of backgrounds and make a great base for your decoration.
Plasterboard – if wet plaster isn’t your thing and it sounds far too complicated a process, drylining is an option that has been around since the 1940s. It involves using plasterboard, which is two layers of gypsum held between two outer layers of lining paper. The plasterboard is stuck to the wall using adhesive and it’s a great option if you’re looking for some good sound proofing. It will also offer a smooth finish that is ready to decorate pretty much straight away.
Plasterboard adhesive – this is the material that will help you attach your plasterboard to your brick or block work. It’s often a preferable method to screwing the plasterboard to the wall as it goes straight onto bare brick and won’t leave unsightly holes that will need filling in. There are two methods to using adhesive – either dot and dab or the direct bond method. They’re pretty straight forward, but we’re always around to offer advice if you’re unsure.
Bucket of clean water – this is really handy for keeping tools clean, wetting your sponge or adding to your plaster to make it thinner and easier to spread about. View see our bucket range.
Extra bits of kit – think preparation before you start the job and get some good dust sheets to put down to protect your carpets and furniture, an effective dust mask for when you’re sanding the surfaces down, as well as sponge and sandpaper for a smooth finish.
We’re always open for advice!
At the end of the day, if you’re really not sure, our staff have more than 50 years of experience in the plastering industry, so whether you’re online or you’re making a visit to our trade counter, if you’re not sure what materials you need for plastering or what plastering tools you need, just give us a shout.