Money is tight for many people, but that does not stop our homes and properties from needing care and attention. Many people cannot afford to pay someone to work on their property, so they are turning to DIY to help save on the costs, and plastering is one job people are trying. If you need to plaster the internal walls of your property, it is a job that you can do yourself if you take your time, do some research, and ensure you have all the correct tools and equipment. You can find a list of the tools and equipment you will need below to help you get started so you can get the job done to the highest standard possible.
Plastering Trowels
One of the most vital tools for plastering you will need when plastering your property is a selection of trowels. You will need more than one trowel to do the job to a high standard, and some of the most vital ones you will need are as follows:
Bucket Trowel: A bucket trowel scoops plaster from the bucket and puts it on the plastering hawk.
Plastering Trowel: A plastering trowel is the trowel that you use to apply the plaster to the walls.
Corner Trowel: A corner trowel is used to smooth the plaster in the corners and ensure a smooth and even finish.
Finishing Trowel: A finishing trowel is used to create a smooth and even finish where you are plastering, and you use this before allowing the plaster to dry.
A Plastering Hawk
You will also need a suitable plastering hawk, which is the device you use to hold the plaster before applying it with a trowel. It is a flat and square platform with a handle underneath so you can hold it while working. It is best to ensure you select one that is lightweight, so it does not get too heavy when working.
A Mixing Drill
Although you can mix your plaster by hand, it will be much easier and quicker if you have a mixing drill to do the job. A mixing drill has a plaster paddle that makes it effortless to mix the plaster to the correct consistency and ensure it is lump-free. It is best to get a mixing drill with variable speed settings, which gives you optimal control when mixing the plaster.
A Mixing Bucket
You will also need a decent-sized container to mix the plaster in, and you must ensure that it is sturdy and suitable for the task. It will help to get a plaster mixing bucket rather than a regular one, as it will have markings and measurements on it to help with accuracy.
A Plastering Float
A plastering, or rendering float, is used to apply and compact plaster to the surface of a wall or ceiling. It has a flat base and a comfortable handle, which helps achieve a smooth and even surface when applying the plaster. Look for a plastering float with a sponge backing for increased adhesion and flexibility.
A Spirit Level
You will also need to get a spirit level to ensure the plaster is even and level. It is worth investing in one of the larger spirit levels, which will make it much easier when working on large surfaces.
A Plastering Rule
Another tool you will require when plastering is a plastering rule or straight edge, which ensures a smooth surface and uniform thickness and is used to screed and level the plaster during application. You will want to choose something lightweight, so an aluminium rule is an excellent choice and can help you achieve precise and even surfaces.
A Scratcher
You will need a scratcher, or comb, that you use on the base layer of plaster before applying the finishing coat. Scratching the base layer helps the finishing coat adhere better to the wall or ceiling and prevents it from cracking or peeling.
A Plastering Sponge
Another tool you will need when finishing the plastering is a plastering sponge that you use to smooth and blend the plaster during the finishing stage. It can help you create a seamless and polished surface and smooth out any imperfections in the plaster. You want to ensure you choose a sponge with a fine texture which will help you achieve the best results.
Above, you can see the vital tools and equipment you will need before you start plastering on your property, but there are other items you may want to get. You will need to ensure that you use protective equipment such as overalls, goggles or safety glasses, and a mask, and you will also need drop sheets to put on the floor and other items in the room you are working in to prevent them from being covered in plaster. If plastering in high places, you will need ladders, a scaffold, or plastering stilts, and you will also need equipment to help you clean once finished.