top of page
Writer's pictureAdam

Choosing the right plaster for your home: A comprehensive guide

When starting a painting project, the type of plaster used can have a big influence on the end product. Whether it's for an outside façade or an interior wall, the type of plaster used determines how your paint will look and last. Plasters vary in texture, absorbency, and compatibility for different situations, thus it is critical to choose the proper one. This guide tries to simplify the process and assist you in selecting the best plaster for your painting requirements.

Furthermore, understanding the properties of various plasters is essential. Traditional plasters, such as gypsum or lime, have a timeless appearance and feel, making them popular in historical or period homes. Meanwhile, current synthetic plasters are more flexible and moisture resistant, making them appropriate for a wide range of contemporary environments. This information enables homeowners and decorators to make educated selections that meet the aesthetic and practical needs of their painting projects.


Close-up of a wet plaster mix on a metal spatula, indicating the process of preparing plaster for application on a wall.

Before painting fresh plaster, make sure the surface is adequately prepared. Fresh plaster is extremely absorbent, so applying paint straight might result in uneven coverage and patchiness. To avoid this, a sealer such as Dulux plaster sealer is advised. This sealer serves as a barrier, allowing the paint to apply easily and evenly. Ensuring that your plaster is properly sealed not only improves the appearance of the paint, but also increases its endurance.


Alt Text: A painter in white overalls and safety glasses stands on stilts while holding a plaster tray above his head, ready for ceiling work, in a bright room with a window.

Painting fresh plaster demands a cautious technique. Begin with a thin, watered-down application of paint, often known as a mist coat, to allow the paint to properly adhere with the plaster. After the mist coat has dried, add one or two more coats of your preferred paint, making sure each layer is dry before applying the next. Avoid heavy coatings, since they may cause cracking or peeling. Using the proper equipment, such as high-quality brushes or rollers, may also significantly improve the finish. Please use our online calculator to get an approximate cost.


In addition to these measures, you must decide the type of paint you will use. Water-based paints are commonly suggested for fresh plaster because they allow the material to breathe and dry naturally. When applying successive coats, make sure to cover the whole surface uniformly, giving special attention to corners and edges where paint likes to collect. It's also a good idea to use a consistent painting method throughout the procedure to eliminate streaks and achieve a smooth, even layer. Patience and attention to detail at this step will pay off in the end, resulting in a more professional and long-lasting finish.


Interior painting setup with a wooden ladder, paint roller extended towards a white wall, a paint can, tray, color swatches, and protective drop cloths on a hardwood floor.

A frequently asked subject among homeowners and DIY enthusiasts is how long to wait after plastering before painting. The answer varies, but it is generally safe to paint once the plaster has completely dried, which can take anywhere from a few days to a week depending on the type of plaster and weather circumstances. Before painting, ensure that the plaster is dry to the touch and lighter in color. Rushing this procedure might result in complications such as mold development and paint peeling, so patience is essential.


To get the greatest results while painting new plastered walls, use these best practices: Choose the appropriate plaster for your project, prepare the surface with a suitable sealer, and allow enough drying time. When painting, begin with a mist coat and build up in consistent layers. Remember that a well-executed paint job not only improves the aesthetics of your room, but also increases the longevity and resilience of your walls.


bottom of page