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Skimming Plasterboard – Tips to a better plastering
finish (posted 8th Feb 08)
Skimming is the process
by which a thin layer of plaster is applied to a wall or ceiling
to provide a smooth surface. Often referred to as board finish,
the amount need for a particular job can be calculated based
on using 10kg to every 5 sq meters. This assumes plaster is
applied to a thickness of approximately 3mm. It's worth noting
that plaster should be stored in a dry place, but it does
have a minimum shelf life, so bulk buying and storage might
not be such a good idea unless you are using it in large and
frequent amounts.
As you set about your next plastering job
it's well worth cleaning the plasterboards first. Dust and
dirt will create problems; so a little time spent in preparation
will pay dividends later. If at all possible empty the room
or at the very least cover anything of value. Not only do
you want to avoid damage to furniture etc, but you also want
to be able to move around the room unimpeded, particularly
if you're working on a ceiling which means you need the whole
floor space to move around in.
When it comes to corners, they need to be
properly prepared. External corners are best trimmed with
angle beads. Angle beads are galvanised strips, which are
simply nailed, with galvanised nails, to the boards. So long
as you've taken time to square them up with a spirit level,
the result is a nice sharp cover. The angle beads can be cut
with a small hacksaw or tin snips but it's a good idea to
use protective gloves, as the edges can be fairly sharp.
Plaster should be mixed using equal amounts
of plaster to water, taking time to mix until a smooth consistency
is achieved. A hand whisk can be helpful here. Once the plaster
is ready wet the spot board and empty the plaster onto it.
A spot board by the way, is just a board of around a meter
sq; useful for catching the plaster as you work.
A small quantity of plaster should
be loaded onto the hawk. Depending on your preference (right
or left handed) hold at around chest height and push a measured
amount of plaster onto the surface with the float. It takes
practice, but you are aiming for a repetitive action which
is smooth and fluid. For walls it's best to work up from the
floor spreading a thin layer and then back down again from
the ceiling to smooth out the plaster. A second coat can be
applied as the first begin to dry a little. This coat should
fill in any ridges. A clean float should be used to smooth
the whole job. As the plaster starts to harden, again the
float can be used as if to polish the surface. Water can be
applied with a brush to help when polishing with the float
and naturally fill out the smallest of holes.
This article is free to republish
provided the resource information below remains intact.
Steve Hinks – www.shropshirebuildingskills.co.uk
Shropshire Building Skills :: Shropshire's No. 1 Construction
Training Centre
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