Plastering is quite possibly the single most misunderstood trade in the construction industry. In fact, most people, if asked, will respond that plastering is something done by painters. While this is not altogether untrue, as some painters do offer plastering services, thinking that painters and plasterers are the same fails to take the full spectrum of what plastering is into account. In fact, plastering is actually a finish job that is generally done by plastering contractors who have been licensed to practice their trade.

What is Plastering?

At its most basic form, plastering is actually a means of strengthening the walls of a home with a cement or lime based substance that was designed to try quickly and rigidly. Even this shortened statement does not provide a complete picture of what plastering does, however, as it can be used for a variety of other purposes as well.

The Multiple Purposes of Plastering

While the original purpose of plaster was to strengthen walls and to prevent weather from getting inside a home, it has sense grown into both a craft and too a degree an art form. On one hand, plastering is the final touch to what the carpenter started. In essence, the plasterer creates a hard shell around the wooden walls of the home. Because of plaster's properties, however, many plasterers are able to create unique decorative molds with plaster. This in itself is part of the plastering process.

If you look at a plastered wall, you will see that it is much more than a wall with a dried substance slathered on it. Rather, you will notice some texture and shaping has taken place. You may also notice that the plastering technique was different on the ceilings that it was on the walls. This is all part of the art of plastering.

Making it Look Easy

One of the many misconceptions people have about plastering is that it is easy. This is actually far from the truth. There is much to know about how to plaster, including what kind of plaster to use for a given surface, how thick to spread the plaster and how to make the right designs. While it is something almost anyone can learn how to do, it is best to consult an expert and maybe take a plastering course before launching into your own plastering project. This way, you will be certain to know the proper techniques before you get started.