Plastering is essential to home renovation and construction, often improving a home’s aesthetics and functionality. While commonly overlooked, plastering significantly impacts areas like moisture control and wall finish, making it vital for interior and exterior works.
If you’re considering plastering some rooms or redoing the render on the exterior of your home, it’s vital to understand the costs involved.
The cost of plastering a house can vary greatly depending on multiple factors, including the type of plaster, the area to be covered, and whether you are replastering or starting fresh.
Plastering costs are generally calculated per square metre rather than hourly, and plasterers typically provide an all-inclusive quote covering both materials and labour.
In this article, we will break down the key factors that affect plastering costs and offer insights into the different types of plaster available.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Plastering is a key part of home renovation, improving aesthetics and moisture control. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of plaster, square footage, and whether you’re replastering or starting from scratch.
Plastering costs are typically calculated per square metre. Different types of plaster, such as veneer, Venetian, lime, gypsum, cement, and acoustic plaster, have different prices and uses. Replastering is cheaper than full plastering, which may involve removing old plaster.
While DIY may be tempting, hiring a professional is generally recommended for better results and to avoid costly mistakes.
Factors That Influence Plastering Costs
Several factors affect the estimation of plastering costs, and the total expense can vary widely based on these variables.
1. Square Footage
The primary factor influencing plastering costs is the size of the area to be covered. Whether you are plastering a small room or an entire house, plasterers will measure the area to determine how much material and labour is required.
In general, the larger the space, the higher the cost. Plasterers often charge per square metre, so accurately measuring your walls and ceilings is important.
2. Plaster Type
Different types of plaster come with varying price tags. Some are more affordable, while others require specialised skills to apply, which can drive up the overall cost. We’ll explore the types of plaster in more detail below.
3. Replastering Vs. Full Plastering
If you are replastering a wall by adding a new coat of plaster on top of the existing plaster, the cost will be lower than starting from scratch. Full plastering may involve removing old plaster, preparing the surface, and applying a fresh base layer, which makes it more labour-intensive and expensive.
4. Surface Preparation
Another key cost factor is the preparation needed before plastering begins. In older homes, it might be necessary to remove old plaster, which can increase the overall project cost. If your home was built before 1978, you may also be required to test for lead or asbestos before removing any plaster, adding further costs.
Types Of Plaster And Their Costs
Various types of plaster are available, each with unique properties and costs. Understanding these types will help you make an informed decision about your project.
1. Veneer Plaster
Veneer plaster is applied thinly over a surface like gypsum or “blue board.” It’s more durable than drywall and doesn’t show seams or joints. Veneer plaster costs between $5 and $10 per square foot.
It creates a smooth, even surface that’s perfect for painting. However, proper installation is crucial for longevity, making it advisable to hire a professional for this type of plaster.
2. Venetian Plaster
Venetian plaster, made from lime, costs around $5 to $15 per linear foot. It’s known for its luxurious, polished finish and was popular during the 1990s.
Despite its aesthetic appeal, Venetian plaster is a specialised material that requires a skilled tradesperson for proper installation, adding to its overall cost. Although durable and easy to maintain, it can be more expensive due to its unique application process.
3. Lime Plaster
Lime plaster is a lightweight, flexible option that costs between $9 and $11 per square foot. It’s commonly used in older homes due to its breathability and resistance to cracking. However, it is unsuitable for damp environments and should only be applied by an expert. Lime plaster’s versatility makes it popular for homes with traditional designs.
4. Gypsum Plaster
Gypsum plaster is popular due to its ease of installation and insulating properties. It costs between $10 and $11 per square foot and doesn’t require a finishing coat. However, it’s not as resistant to water damage and is prone to mechanical wear. Gypsum plaster is commonly used to create smooth, flat surfaces on walls and ceilings.
5. Cement Plaster
Cement plaster is durable and works well in damp conditions, making it ideal for exterior use. It costs around $12 per square foot. However, due to its rigidity, cement plaster can crack in older homes, and repairs may be more frequent if the house is shifting or settling. Cement plaster combines plaster, cement, sand, and water, providing strength and durability.
6. Acoustic Plaster
Acoustic plaster costs between $13 and $14 per square foot and is designed to enhance soundproofing. This type of plaster often contains cotton fibres and provides a high-end aesthetic by mimicking materials like marble or stone. It’s frequently used in commercial buildings and suitable for home theatres or music rooms.
Should You Hire A Professional Or Do It Yourself?
Plastering is one area of home improvement where hiring a professional can save time and money in the long run. Although some DIY enthusiasts may be tempted to tackle plastering themselves, achieving a smooth, professional finish requires skill and experience.
Improperly applied plaster can lead to cracking, bulging, or uneven surfaces, which could cost more to fix than hiring a professional in the first place.
Benefits Of Hiring A Professional Plasterer
- A professional plasterer will have the necessary skills to deliver a flawless finish.
- They come equipped with the right tools, such as scaffolding for multi-story buildings.
- A qualified plasterer will be insured, protecting you from liability in accidents.
- Many plasterers offer a warranty on their work, providing peace of mind.
Common Plastering Jobs And Their Costs
Different plastering tasks come with different timeframes and costs. Below is a breakdown of some common plastering jobs and what you can expect to pay for each.
1. Replastering Walls
Replastering is a common job for professionals and DIYers alike. It involves skimming a thin coat of new plaster over existing plaster or repairing damaged areas. This is generally a quicker and more affordable process compared to full plastering.
2. New Plaster Walls
Plastering new walls is a more involved process, as it often requires removing old plaster, preparing the surface, and applying a new coat. In addition to the cost of labour, you’ll also need to consider the cost of materials such as plasterboards and finishing compounds.
3. Plastering Ceilings
Plastering ceilings can be labour-intensive and require specialised equipment. Small ceilings typically take six to twelve hours, medium ceilings take eight to twelve hours, and large ceilings can take up to three days. Expect the cost to vary depending on the size of the ceiling and the complexity of the job.
4. External Rendering
Due to its complexity, external plastering, or rendering, is often left to professionals. The cost will depend on the size of the building and whether it’s a multi-story structure requiring scaffolding. The cost is relatively affordable for smaller homes, but larger buildings or those requiring scaffolding can increase the overall price significantly.
Plaster Removal Costs
Plaster removal might be necessary in older homes, especially if it’s damaged by water, cracking, or bulging. If asbestos is present, common in homes built before 1978, removal should only be done by licensed professionals. Due to the health risks involved, asbestos removal can be costly, potentially adding hundreds or thousands of dollars to the project.
Conclusion
Plastering is an important aspect of home renovation, providing both aesthetic and practical benefits. While the cost of plastering varies depending on the type of plaster, the size of the area, and whether you are replastering or starting fresh, the general rule is that plastering costs are calculated per square metre.
Hiring a professional plasterer is recommended for most jobs, especially those involving multi-story buildings or intricate designs. A professional will ensure a high-quality finish, saving you time and money in the long run.
Understanding the costs involved and the different types of plaster available will help you make an informed decision and choose the best option for your home.
FAQs About Plaster
Why Do You Plaster Walls?
Applying plaster will give your walls a strong, smooth, durable finish. A well-plastered room will also help keep old walls in good condition, provide the perfect base for paint, and help with soundproofing.
Will Plaster Stick To Concrete?
Applying plaster to a concrete wall can change its appearance, level it, make it more moisture-resistant, and allow you to add texture. Plastering a concrete wall takes time. It would be best to prepare the wall, allowing for curing and drying between plaster applications.
Why Cement Plaster Is Used?
Cement plaster is used to plaster the interior and exterior walls of the house. The best quality of cement plastering is needed to do a great job. Cement plaster is a mixture of water, fine aggregates, and Portland cement. Cement and sand are mixed in different amounts to obtain the cement plaster.
What Is Used To Make Plaster?
The most common types of plaster are gypsum, lime, or cement with water and sand. The plaster is typically manufactured as a dry powder and mixed with water to form a stiff paste before application.
What Is The Difference Between Cement And Plaster?
When applied to a flat surface, the coat of plaster gives an extremely smooth finish, so it’s perfect for interior surfaces. Cement rendering involves a much higher proportion of sand for additional strength. The sand is also usually much coarser, which helps increase the strength of the cement render.
