FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions – Plastering Services at its Best
The finish achieved when plastering, rendering and carrying out repairs and renovations at your home is essential in the planning of such a project. I’m Lee, owner of Elite Plasterers, and I always carry out work to a very high standard, here are some of the most common questions we get asked:
I am planning to transform my kitchen, bathroom or bedroom – when does the plastering need to be carried out?
The finish and the timing is everything. Planning must be precise so that all trades working in your home know when to arrive, and that they are not getting in the way of each other. Existing fittings need first to be removed, then plastering carried out whilst the room is empty. This then makes sure that your new kitchen, bathroom or bedroom fittings are not affected by the dust produced in plastering.
Do I need to remove my furniture from the room prior to you arriving?
Yes. Furniture must be out of the way otherwise it will get incredibly dusty and potentially splashed with difficult to remove plaster and other materials. With particularly large items, you can put them in the centre of the room and dust sheets will be used to protect them as much as is possible.
How do I removed artex, or textured coatings, from my walls and/or ceilings?
We have to be careful that artex and alternative coatings added prior to 1985 does not contain traces of asbestos. If it does, a specialist tradesman who can safely test for, and remove, asbestos will be recommended – this is because if we disturb it, asbestos can release harmful fibres into the air. If you choose to, we can simply plaster over the artex without disturbing it, extra costs may be charged. If no asbestos is present then scrapers are used to remove rough bits of the artex then plaster is applied to leave you with a beautifully smooth area.
How long does the plaster take to dry out as I want to paint or wallpaper over it when it’s ready?
This will depend on a number of things. Elements to be considered are things like the climate in the room, ventilation and the air flow. Some materials such as backing coats and some plasters will take longer to dry out than others. Elite Plasterers will always provide advice as some plaster may look dry on the surface after a few days, however may still be wet underneath.
Do I need to apply a primer to the new plaster before I decorate it?
This is always a necessary job, and priming prior to painting and wallpapering is essential so that the paint you use as a final colour does not peel. Whilst DIY stores may sell you products specifically named primer, they can be pricey. Using a water based emulsion in a very light colour should be sufficient. If you are simply painting the wall a great quality paint is usually a good idea on top of the chosen primer if you ensure you apply the recommended amount of layers.
What do I need to do about the sockets and switches? Can you plaster around them?
Due to health and potential safety issues, it is best practice to unscrew them. Not only the risks involved with plastering around switches and sockets are considered – you need to be sure that the finish is perfect and working around them is awkward; leaving electrical switches and sockets in place will hugely affect the completed work. This applies to radiators to and it can be arranged for a specialist to remove them, to return and re-fit them when the work is finished.
What about carpets that I am keeping, do I have to lift them prior to you arriving?
It is not necessary to remove the carpets as they will be protected as much as possible with dust sheets and tape paying attention to every detail. Every floor will be covered and you will be left with a clean room on completion.
I think my property has damp, what should I do?
There are a number of factors that can cause damp and can lead to further more serious damage if it is left. Elite Plasterers are happy to visit your home or property to assess where the damp may be coming from. This type of survey is carried out by a Certified Surveyor in Remedial Treatments. This is also the case if the project involved cellar conversions and timber treatment.
Is it easy to install sound proofing into my new extension?
Sound proofing is a delicate job and must be carried out with precision. Whilst it isn’t particularly easy, Elite Plasterers have years of experience – in fact, over 20 years – and can assess the area, install superior materials, then plaster to achieve a perfect finish.
If you have not yet found an answer to your questions on the website, please feel free to make direct contact on 01375 408394 or the mobile which is 07799 638073. Alternatively, here are some frequently asked questions to help prospective customers answer any questions.