Plaster

About Plaster

Plaster is an essential building material used throughout the construction and renovation industries for creating smooth, durable finishes on walls and ceilings. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional plastering products designed for both trade professionals and competent DIY enthusiasts, including quick-setting patching compounds and smooth finishing plasters. Modern plaster formulations offer specialised solutions for specific applications, from rapid repairs requiring minimal downtime to skim coats that create the perfect canvas for decoration.

The plaster range at MyToolShed encompasses products with varying setting times, workability characteristics, and application methods. Quick-setting patching plasters allow tradespeople to complete emergency repairs efficiently, whilst skim coat products provide that final smooth surface layer ready for painting or wallpapering. The selection features trusted brands like Everbuild, renowned throughout the UK trade for delivering reliable, professional-grade results on every job.

Applications

Plaster products are essential materials for various trades and applications:

• Professional Plasterers: Wall and ceiling finishing on new builds and renovation projects
• General Builders: Finishing work and making good during construction projects
• Property Maintenance Contractors: Repairs and refurbishment in residential and commercial properties
• Decorators: Surface preparation and minor plastering repairs before finishing work
• Landlords and Property Managers: Maintaining rental properties with reliable patching materials
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home renovation projects, repairs, and creating new living spaces
• Shopfitters: Commercial fit-outs requiring smooth wall finishes

Choosing The Right Plaster

Application Type: Determine whether you need patching plaster for repairs, or finishing skim for final smoothing. Quick-setting compounds are ideal for fast repairs where standard setting times aren't practical, whilst skim products provide smooth final surfaces.

Setting Time Requirements: Consider your skill level and job size. Rapid-setting plasters (10-30 minutes) suit small repairs but require confident, quick work. Standard setting times (60-90 minutes) provide more working time for larger areas or less experienced users.

Substrate Compatibility: Ensure the plaster suits your surface type. Different formulations work best on plasterboard, brick, block, or as repair compounds. Check manufacturer specifications for compatibility and primer requirements.

Working Environment: Temperature and humidity affect setting times. Cold conditions slow setting; warm, dry conditions accelerate it. Choose formulations suited to your working environment.

Safety Information

Working safely with plaster protects your health and ensures quality results. Always wear dust masks or respirators when mixing dry plaster powder to prevent inhalation of fine particles. Safety goggles protect eyes from splashes, whilst protective gloves prevent skin irritation during prolonged contact. Plaster can cause dermatitis with repeated exposure, so wash hands thoroughly after use. Ensure adequate ventilation when working indoors to minimise dust exposure. Bags of plaster typically weigh 10-25kg, so use proper lifting techniques with a straight back and lift with your legs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does plaster take to fully dry?
Whilst plaster sets relatively quickly (10 minutes to several hours depending on the product), complete drying takes approximately 1-2 weeks at a rate of about 1mm per day in normal conditions. The surface may appear dry but moisture content beneath remains high. Attempting to decorate before plaster fully dries can cause problems with paint adhesion and finish quality.

What's the difference between quick-setting patching plaster and skim plaster?
Quick-setting patching plasters harden rapidly (often 10-30 minutes), making them ideal for repairs requiring fast turnaround. They're typically stronger and more crack-resistant in small repairs. Skim plasters have longer working times (60-90 minutes) and are designed for creating smooth finishing surfaces over larger areas.

Can plaster be stored once opened?
Unopened plaster stored in dry conditions typically lasts 6-12 months from manufacture. Once opened, plaster absorbs moisture which causes deterioration and premature setting. If storing opened bags, seal tightly in plastic bags and use within a few weeks. MyToolShed.co.uk recommends discarding plaster that has become lumpy or hard as it won't perform correctly.