Applying decorative plaster to drywall with your own hands: how to do it right

Any room can benefit from the stylish, textured surface that decorative plaster can create from plain drywall. When trying to achieve a distinctive finish without using paint or wallpaper, this is a popular option.

Although applying decorative plaster yourself may seem intimidating, it is completely possible if you take the proper approach. You can accomplish professional-looking results and streamline the process by being aware of the necessary steps and tools.

This tutorial will take you step-by-step through the essential processes of applying decorative plaster to drywall, from surface preparation to application technique mastery. You can confidently take on this project and give your house a unique touch by following these steps.

Is it possible to apply decorative plaster to drywall

Not only is plastering possible on drywall, but it’s encouraged. Because of its smooth surface, GKL is an easy material to work with because it simplifies the technological process.

There is one "but," though: gypsum swells when it comes into contact with moisture, which deteriorates the decorative finish. Thus, the bottom line is that a high-quality, moisture-resistant base should be selected, and it should be properly primed with the proper compounds before plaster is applied.

Is it necessary to putty drywall

Puttying is a necessary step in finishing work that removes small irregularities and roughness left behind from plastering. Because gypsum plasterboard sheets are smooth, minor surface flaws can be fixed right away, eliminating the need for plastering.

Puttying is absolutely required; otherwise, the joints and any depressions left by fasteners may show through the final coat of decorative plaster on the drywall, along with the possibility of dark corrosion spots.

It should be noted that perfect smoothness of the gypsum board surface is required beneath Venetian plaster; relief finishing does not require this.

Applying decorative plaster to drywall can add texture and style to your space, and with the right technique, it’s completely doable to do yourself. You can give your walls a polished appearance that gives them personality by properly prepping the surface, choosing the right supplies, and adhering to easy, step-by-step instructions.

Features of preparatory work

It is crucial to complete the preparatory work; otherwise, the decorative layer might quickly break and start to peel off. First, the surface is cleared of dust and debris. You can use a vacuum cleaner or a rag for this. The fasteners are cut flush if they project above the surface. After cutting off the peeling cardboard, sandpaper is used to smooth the cut line. Gluing reinforcing tape "serpyanka" to the drywall joints will prevent them from showing through putty.

Applying the primer is the next step in the preparation process. Particular attention is paid to the joints in this process. The purpose of the primer is to:

• strengthen the wall;
• protect from moisture;
• simplify the application of subsequent materials and ensure their reliable adhesion.

Experts advise using water-dispersion acrylic primer at this point.

Puttying is the next step to do after priming.

What to putty drywall with

Different kinds of putty exist. They are all composed of fractions, the size of which dictates the composition’s goal. The following varieties are these:

• starting putty with large particles, for sealing cracks and irregularities;
• fine-grained finishing, for microscopic cracks and creating a perfectly smooth surface;
• universal, with medium-sized fractions, for small defects.

Mineral modifiers and additives are additional required ingredients that control the composition’s characteristics.

Gypsum putty

Gypsum-based compositions are among the most widely used because of their advantageous qualities.

• easy application and grinding;
• good vapor permeability;
• strength;
• economical consumption;
• aesthetic appearance;
• low cost with excellent quality.

Cons: Doesn’t work well outside or in moist environments; quickly hardens, so apply composition in small amounts and don’t wait to grind.

Cement putty

When it comes to caulking cracks and imperfections, this is the most widely used variety. Used in moist and cold rooms for both interior and exterior work. Apart from the putty used for starting and finishing, there is also putty used for reinforcement that contains fiberglass.

The composition (with a layer thickness of 3 mm) is applied to a primed wall and must cure for at least 5 days. No longer than two hours may be spent storing the functional solution. applied twice, separated by a half-hour interval: a finishing layer that is thinner than the first layer, and then grouting.

The least expensive and easiest to obtain is gray putty, which is a self-made product with a high cement content. used as a crack sealer.

Modern polymer compositions

Although they are relatively new, polymer putties have already gained finishers’ trust. They include coloring pigments, chalk, talc, various other specialty additives, and film-forming materials (backfillers).

There are various kinds of mixtures of polymer plaster:

1. Acrylic. Resistant to moisture and temperature changes, prevent the appearance of mold. Disadvantages include low plasticity, rapid thickening.
2. Latex, based on rubber resin. Have good plasticity, easy to work with. Suitable for use by novice craftsmen.
3. Polycement, a universal product on synthetic cement. Suitable for any premises, surfaces. Can be applied in a layer of up to 3 cm, and with a reinforcing mesh, a two-layer coating is possible.

Although polymer putties are more costly than their natural counterparts, they are in higher demand due to their superior qualities and cost-effectiveness.

How to plaster drywall technology

After the primer has completely dried, putty can be applied. Plaster the joints first. A narrow spatula goes along, filling the spaces as mortar is added. The seams are further reinforced to guarantee that the putty holds firmly. Any extra mortar is taken out right away; it’s not left for later.

Using a wide spatula, plaster is applied to the entire wall’s surface. Two layers of the composition must be applied if the defects are deeply rooted. The roughness is rubbed off after it has dried. Finishing putty is also used if flawless smoothness is required, such as beneath Venetian plaster.

A satisfying project that can completely change the appearance of any space is applying decorative plaster to drywall. With the correct equipment, supplies, and methods, you can give your walls a polished appearance that gives them character and texture.

It’s crucial to take your time doing every task, from plastering to drywall preparation. Careful application and adequate preparation are essential to prevent common problems like uneven or cracked surfaces.

By adhering to these recommendations, you can tackle the project with assurance and relish the fulfillment of crafting a stunning, personalized finish for your house.

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